On April 15, 2013, Kerry Wilson represented the John Mastronardi Memorial Fund by running the 117th Boston Marathon. As the Fund’s official runner, Wilson raised over $2,500.00, the amount equal to one of the two scholarships that will be awarded to deserving Revere High School graduates this June.
A friend of the Mastronardi Family and a native of Tewksbury, Massachusetts, Wilson was running her first Boston Marathon. The 24-year old had previously run two other marathons, including the Quebec City Marathon and the Walt Disney World Marathon, as well as several half marathons.
Kerry Wilson
Running Boston, however, was a completely different experience for her. “The support and cheers were amazing and so encouraging throughout the entire route,” commented Wilson. “I stayed on the right side the entire run just giving all the spectators high-fives.”
A graduate of Tewksbury High School and Fitchburg State University, Wilson ran several of the final miles with her Dad, who jumped in to support his daughter late in the race. Family and friends of Wilson were among the thousands who lined the course from Hopkinton to Boston. “This was by far the best marathon I have ever run,” she said. “Now, I don’t know if I could ever run another besides Boston.”
Due to the tragic events which occurred at the finish line on Marathon Monday, Wilson was unfortunately unable to complete the 26.2 mile course. She was safely stopped just before mile 25 and diverted to Commonwealth Avenue, with over 5,000 other runners.
The Boston Marathon has served as the John Mastronardi Memorial Fund’s largest annual fundraiser for nearly 18 years. John, himself, ran Boston many times. Like for so many others, this landmark race on Patriot’s Day holds a special place in our hearts. The John Mastronardi Memorial Fund committee members stand strong with Boston during this difficult time. We pray for the bombing victims and their families and encourage donations to the One Fund.
A heartfelt thanks to Kerry Wilson for all of her tireless efforts fundraising, training and running for John!