It’s that time of year again—Boston Marathon season.

As you know, this is always a reflective time for our family, when the sorrow of 2013 blends with the triumphs of the Stepping Strong Center, created in Gillian’s honor. Since its founding, the Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation has transformed a moment of tragedy into a powerful force for change. Over the past eleven years, it has evolved into a thriving hub where trauma research drives innovation, educational programs empower communities, advocacy inspires progress, and clinical practices are reimagined—impacting lives in ways we never could have envisioned.

With that, is our great pleasure to share the 2024-2025 Annual Report for The Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation. As we reflect on another year of progress, one thing is clear—our success is only possible because of you.

Each year, the funds raised during Boston Marathon season propel this important work forward. While Steven and I are not running this year, we are honored to serve as team captains for our incredible 153-member team and have shown our commitment with a $100,000 donation. We are so honored that the Brigham’s President, Giles Boland MD has chosen to be on our team and to support our efforts. Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, the Stepping Strong Center continues to expand its reach, touching the lives of trauma survivors through groundbreaking initiatives. In 2024-25 alone: 

• $650,000 awarded to accelerate innovative research projects
• 190+ published studies advancing trauma care
• $75,000 provided to support patients’ essential life needs
• 650+ people trained in lifesaving emergency response skills

At the heart of our mission are trauma patients whose lives can be transformed through evidence-based research and initiatives. Yet, despite the urgent need, trauma research remains significantly underfunded, receiving less than 2% of federal funding--and this was prior to the current changes in the new administration. in 2024, the Stepping Strong Center was forced to decline $2.4 million in research funding requests—an urgent reminder of the growing demand for innovation in trauma care.

Together, we can change the future for trauma patients worldwide. We hope you will join us again and make a gift today to support us during our critical Boston Marathon season fundraising outreach. Please help us get our Stepping Strong Marathon team over our $1.7MM finish line!

DONATE NOW

Thank you for your consideration, generosity, and support. If you’ve already contributed, we sincerely appreciate your kindness and philanthropy. Your commitment is advancing trauma research, transforming lives, and making a lasting difference. If you need any assistance with processing a donation or using a DAF, you can reach Ali Luthman Wheeler copied above. 

With love,

Audrey and Steven ( and our growing family—Danielle, Kyle, Elyse, Matt and Gillian)