Elaine Julien
Beverly, Massachusetts.
My Why
The 129th Boston Marathon will mark my debut as a marathon runner! Running has always been a part of my life—I enjoyed jogging 3-5 miles during my high school and college. However, it wasn’t until I moved to Revere Beach that I began challenging myself to go farther and farther. Since then, I’ve completed several half marathons, and I’m incredibly honored to run my first full marathon as a member of Team Herren.
Herren Project’s mission holds a deeply personal place in my heart. On December 13th, 2012, my father, Jeff Julien, unexpectedly passed away from a substance use-related tragedy. I will be running the Boston Marathon to honor my dad, as well as for those who have fought and won, those who are still fighting, those who fought to the end, and those who have yet to fight. Losing my dad has been one of the most defining experiences of my life, and it has profoundly influenced the woman I am today. His loss taught me to cherish every opportunity given to me, and for that, I am grateful. I am so grateful for the opportunity to not only partake in the Boston Marathon but to make a lasting difference in the lives of those who are struggling with substance use disorder.
