He’s running Boston to support kids and families at MGH

After witnessing the strength of young patients on the course in 2014, he is taking on Boston again to help fund pediatric cancer care and research.

Andrew Mahr is running the 2026 Boston Marathon.

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.

Name: Andrew Mahr
Age: 37
From: Needham

I am running the Boston Marathon to support the families at MGH who face unimaginable challenges every day, and I am proud to run in their honor. This will be my second time running with MGH, and the meaning behind every mile feels deeper than ever.

During my last race in 2014, I saw young patients in the MGH program stationed at Heartbreak Hill, some in treatment, some missing limbs, all cheering with everything they had. Their courage made losing a couple of toenails feel insignificant and reminded me exactly why we run and who we run for.

A few miles later, I caught up to Rick and Dick Hoyt, and the moment brought everything into perspective.

The reality is that pediatric cancer receives only a small fraction of the funding given to adult cancer research, even though the fight is just as real and urgent. These kids and their families need our support, and I believe it is our responsibility to show up for them.

I first ran Boston in 2014, one year after the bombing. Being near Boylston Street in 2013 and witnessing the chaos, along with the bravery of strangers helping one another, left a lasting mark on me. When David Ortiz stood at Fenway and said, “This is our f**king city,” I knew I had to run.

Now, as a father of two young children, this mission means even more. Every dollar helps bring hope, care, and life-changing research to the kids, teens, and families of the MGH Pediatric Cancer Center.

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