After raising another $26,200 for Journey Forward, Thomas Smith shares a personal recap of the 128th Boston Marathon, his 6th since sustaining multiple SCIs:
“What a day yesterday was! For the last six years Marathon Monday has become a day that I look forward to every year. Being able to support Journey Forward and represent the more than 130 individuals and families that the Thomas E. Smith Foundation has assisted will always be a privilege and an honor.
This year I teamed up with my friend Paul Kent, who has now completed three Boston Marathons since his double amputation surgery. Paul continues to defy the odds and be an inspiration for those with disabilities proving that impossible means I’M-POSSIBLE! 2024 was also my physical therapist Keith Cooper’s, 4th year walking with me. Preparing for this year’s marathon was my most interesting to date, having fractured my ankle in January after a bad fall. Never had I condensed my training into just 8 weeks, and admittedly I was a bit nervous for this year’s event. As we’ve successfully done in the past, Keith and Dr. Thomas Mulroy came up with a plan that resulted in completing my 6th Boston Marathon. It is such a blessing to have a kind, brilliant, and determined medical team looking after me with my best interests in mind. A sincere thank you to you both for everything you do!
This year was also the second year we teamed up with Zdeno Chara and The Hoyt Foundation to raise awareness and funds for those with disabilities. Working with Zee and the Hoyt family has been incredible, and our foundation is extremely blessed for both their friendships and their commitments to helping others in need.
Thank you guys for another successful year, I look forward to our continued partnership!
Last, but not least, it’s hard to put into words what my family and friends mean to me. The highlight of each of my marathons is taking the left onto Boylston Street and seeing my wife, mom, brother, aunts, uncles, cousins, sister-in-law, TESF board members, friends, and colleagues waiting to cross the finish line with me. One person can make a profound impact on others, but I truly believe that it takes a village to change the world. I would not be in the position I am today without their support. Thank you all for being so incredible and being there for me in all my endeavors!
To date, TESF’s participation in the on Boston Marathon has raised over $172,000 for Journey Forward. This number would not be possible without everyone’s continued support. While I recognize we have done amazing work together, I am even more energized for what the future holds!” – Thomas Smith, President and Co-Founder – TESF
