The Stepping Strong Story: Turning Tragedy into Hope

In 2013, Boston was forever changed when a beautiful Marathon Monday turned into a senseless tragedy. Gillian Reny, then a high school senior, was among the 39 critically injured patients rushed to Brigham and Women’s Hospital, where doctors and nurses saved her life—and both of her legs. In gratitude, the Reny family established The Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation to help other trauma patients regain their strength and ability to step strong once again.

Transforming a Family's Vision into a World-Renowned Trauma Center

Since 2014, the Reny family has passionately partnered with medical professionals and researchers at Mass General Brigham to develop the Stepping Strong Center into a leading hub for trauma innovation. The center’s work is funded almost entirely through philanthropic donations, including the funds raised from our Boston 10k team. The vital work of the Stepping Strong Center drives groundbreaking solutions for injured civilians and military heroes through multidisciplinary research and collaboration—spanning prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Addressing Trauma: A Global Epidemic

Trauma is often called the neglected global epidemic of modern society. Each year, traumatic injuries account for 40 million emergency department visits and remain the leading cause of death for people aged 44 and younger, surpassing cancer and heart disease. In 2019, the economic burden of trauma exceeded $4 trillion.

By joining our Boston 10K team or supporting a team member, you help transform tragedy into hope for civilian and military heroes worldwide who have endured devastating injuries. Your generosity fuels pioneering research, enhances lifesaving education programs, and reimagines the future of trauma care and recovery.