This doctor is running Boston for pediatric care

“Marathon training is a reminder that progress rarely happens all at once.”

April 18, 2026 | 8:00 AM

1 minute to read

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: Dr. Jennifer Gill
Age: 54
City: Lincoln

I’m proud to be running the Boston Marathon in support of Boston Community Pediatrics, an organization whose mission I believe in deeply. Every day at BCP we work to care for patients and support their families with compassion, partnership, and trust. It is a privilege to be part of that work, and running the marathon is one small way I can help support and celebrate that mission.

This winter’s training has required a lot of commitment. There have been plenty of dark, cold, icy mornings, and more time on the treadmill than I would have liked, but the miles add up one run at a time. Even on the toughest mornings, I remind myself why I’m doing it: for the kids and families we serve.

I only started running longer races recently. After running the Falmouth Road Race for BCP in 2024, I caught the running bug and began training for marathons. I am not fast. In fact, I am quite slow. But speed has never really been the point. What I love about marathon running is the challenge — the discipline of showing up day after day, putting one foot in front of the other, and gradually going a little farther.

There is something powerful about committing to something difficult and seeing it through. Marathon training is a reminder that progress rarely happens all at once. It happens slowly, with consistency and persistence.

Running the Boston Marathon feels like a celebration of that spirit, and a way to support a place I am so proud to work, caring for children and families in our community.

Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.

Kelly Chan

Content Producer

Kelly Chan is a content producer at Boston.com. She designs multimedia content on site and across social media platforms, and experiments with new ways to engage readers.

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