Standing near the finish line of the Boston Marathon that day, Gillian Reny's life changed forever. A senseless act of violence left her with traumatic injuries, but the incredible medical team at Brigham and Women's Hospital saved her life and legs. In gratitude, her family established The Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation at the Brigham, where today, Gillian's strength drives a relentless pursuit to transform how we prevent, treat, and recover from traumatic injury - the leading cause of death for people ages 44 and younger in the United States.

The Stepping Strong Center unites healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community members to revolutionize trauma care and rebuild lives. Here's how:

• Fuel Research: Supporting clinical studies and collaborative projects that accelerate solutions and improve trauma patient outcomes
• Reimagine Care: Embracing the latest research to redefine best practices and transform trauma care for survivors
• Advance Education: Training the next generation of trauma leaders and empowering the public to respond to trauma
• Inspire Advocacy: Championing trauma survivors and injury prevention by raising awareness, supporting policy initiatives, and improving public safety

As a solely philanthropically funded center, they depend entirely on generous donations to sustain their life-changing programs. Every dollar goes directly toward groundbreaking research, innovative care, and giving hope to trauma survivors when they need it most.

I'm incredibly honored to be running the 2026 Boston Marathon as part of the Brigham and Women's Stepping Strong team for a cause that hits close to home.

As a lifelong Bostonian, April 15, 2013, is a day I'll never forget. That day changed Boston forever, but it also revealed our resilience and our commitment to turning tragedy into hope.

I can't wait to run through this amazing city for a foundation doing such powerful work. Every mile I run is for Gillian, for trauma survivors who face challenges with courage and determination, and for a city that refuses to be defined by tragedy.

Thank you for your support and for continuing to honor the Boston Strong spirit that still defines our city today!

Learn more about the Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation at the Brigham: www.bwhsteppingstrong.org

Brigham and Women's Hospital is a proud partner of the Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program.