Hi everyone! My name is Hadley Lucas, and I’m excited to be running the 2026 Boston Marathon in support of the Brigham and Women’s Hospital Stepping Strong Foundation. This will be my first marathon, and as part of this journey I’m working to raise over $12,000 to advance lifesaving trauma research, innovation, and patient care. Every mile I run represents the patients, clinicians, and researchers who fight every day to turn tragedy into possibility.

The Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation was founded in the aftermath of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings. On April 15, 2013, standing near the finish line, Gillian Reny’s life changed in an instant. A senseless act of violence left her with traumatic injuries, but the efforts of a multidisciplinary medical team at Brigham and Women's Hospital saved her life and legs. 

While none of my own traumatic injuries have been life threatening, they’ve taught me just how crucial fast, high quality medical attention is. Trauma can impact any one of us without warning, and it remains the leading cause of death for people under 44. The Stepping Strong mission resonates deeply with me, not only personally but professionally.

For the past seven years, I’ve worked in a field centered around traumatic spine injuries. I’ve seen firsthand the life changing impact these injuries can have on patients and their families. My career allows me to be in the operating room, providing product and clinical support during surgeries that help transform what is often the worst day of a patient’s life into the first step of recovery. It’s emotional but incredibly gratifying, and it’s why I feel so connected to Stepping Strong’s dedication to trauma innovation, healing, and hope.

I will be running the 130th Boston Marathon for all those that can’t, for the medical teams who give their all to patients, and most importantly for myself. I’m excited to push my physical and mental limits while representing a cause that aligns so closely with both my career and personal values. Running on behalf of Stepping Strong is an honor and a powerful reminder of why I do what I do every day.

Every donation, big or small, goes directly to supporting life-changing programs and initiatives for trauma innovation, improved patient outcomes, and turns tragedy into hope for survivors.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generosity and support. It means so much! #BOSTONSTRONG

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