Gabby Bazemore leads Boston to find a remedy for leukemia

Boston marathon

This year she heads the 129th Boston Marathon in honor of her friend and collects donations for the hospital that saved her life.

In our “Why I runThe Boston Marathon Athletes series share what inspires them to make Hopkinton’s 26.2 mile hike to Boston.

Name: Gabrielle Bazemore
Age: 27
By: Austin, Texas

Why do I run the marathon?

Katie was part of my life as long as I can remember. We met as children, became best friends and now she is a family. Everything changed in 2018 when I received the call – at Katie, acute promenelocytic leukemia (APL) was diagnosed, an aggressive form of cancer. She was immediately taken to the Massachusetts General Hospital, where an incredible team of doctors, nurses and employees fought next to her.

As soon as I could, I flew to Boston to be by her side. I experienced first -hand unshakable care, the specialist knowledge and friendliness of the MGH team. Katie gave her commitment to fight, and I will always be grateful for that.

Now, six years of cancer, Katie thrives. This year I lead the 129th Boston Marathon in honor and collect donations for the place where her life was saved. The Massachusetts General Hospital was Katies at home for 42 days, and my goal is to give something back so that other families can get the same life -changing care.

Every mile I step is a tribute to Katie’s resilience and the incredible work of MGH. Please support your mission with me. Every dollar introduced goes directly to get more patients like Katie the treatment they need.

Note from the publisher: This entry may have been easily edited for clarity or grammar.

Jessika Landon

Cooperation of the audience Engagement

Jessika Landon is the cooperative of the public engagement at boston.com and senior at Emerson College. She comes from Bangor, Maine.