I’m back with more donor shoutouts and some really good news on the training front.
For a while, my training woes were worse than I let on. It wasn’t just that my runs felt like total garbage—it was also that I struggled just to get out of bed. On my long runs, especially the 15-miler, I was in so much pain, and eventually I started feeling pressure in my chest. That was the wake-up call to pick up the phone and call the doctor.
After a stress echo at Beth Israel Milton (shoutout to the staff who kept me laughing the whole time), I’m happy to report that it was nothing more than overtraining. My numbers are back to normal and, according to the doctor, the ticker looks not just good but great.
That meant I was able to toe the line at my sprint triathlon last weekend. No PR, but only 15 seconds off last year’s time. Not record-breaking, but I finished. If Becky were here, she’d roll her eyes and say, “Only you would be excited to get a clean bill of health so you can do a triathlon or a marathon, the rest of us would go get a sandwich” And she’d be right. I wish I could laugh with her about it.
Now, on to some incredible people I’m so grateful for.
First up: Gretel Seeley.
“If you can see it, you can be it”—that’s Gretel for me. I met her at a time when I needed community most, and she gave me both that and a role model. Basketball has always been my grounding sport. It taught me teamwork, grit, and resilience. And through the Gloucester YMCA women’s league, I found not just competition but a group of women who showed up for each other.
Gretel stood out. She wasn’t just surviving—she was thriving. Driving her convertible, owning her home, supporting her friends, and leading as a powerhouse executive. Two decades ago, examples of women like that weren’t nearly as visible as they are today. Because I saw what Gretel was capable of, I believed I could do half as much—and for the other half, Gretel was always there rooting me on. I’ve never said this to her out loud, but it feels right to say it here: thank you, Gretel, for the example and for your support.
Next up: Karla Delomba.
My cousin from another two mothers. Writing about Karla feels like writing about one of my own kids. I’ve known her since she was three. I still remember how she refused to sleep—afraid she’d miss out on something. Grandpa thought it was hilarious (mostly because he never had to deal with it).
Karla was the kind of kid who made her own fun, and she grew into a stunning, kind, vibrant woman. I had the privilege of watching her marry Ryan last year—an incredible moment after so many years of watching her grow. Being Becky’s best friend, co-babysitter, and honorary cousin gave me a front row seat to Karla’s life. You and Ryan are such a beautiful couple, and I can’t wait to see what’s next. Love you, Karla—thank you for your support.
Now, Julie Garey.
Julie is mom to Marissa, one of my favorite athletes from the Blizzard, my AAU girls’ basketball team. Marissa was fierce on the court and a joy to coach. Julie and her husband Chuck raised a family full of great kids—Billy, Lauren, and Marissa. Small world moment: my mom even had Billy in one of her classes (because, honestly, who hasn’t she taught at this point?). Julie and Chuck, I’m grateful for your support and for raising such wonderful kids.
And finally, Chrissie Cronin.
Chrissie and I crossed paths at Drift, and I knew right away she was the kind of person who always has your back. A true girl’s girl—loyal, dependable, and the first to volunteer to help someone in need. She’s fiercely independent, raising her golden retriever Hogan while also building a beautiful life with Steve and his two boys. They just bought a new house—another exciting milestone in their journey. I’m so happy for you, Chrissie, and so grateful for your support.
That’s a wrap on this round of donor shoutouts. Last week we raised another $600, and thanks to Joe Bonfiglio’s generous matching gift, that means $1,200 more for Joslin Diabetes Center.
Thank you all.
Only 26 miles to go! 
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