Jill Riley
My Why
I’m honored to be running my second marathon with Herren Project. I fundraise for Herren Project in memory of my cousin Nicole, and for so many individuals who face the tragic reality of addiction. April 15th will mark sixteen years since Nicky lost her battle with addiction. She was 23. Running in her memory ensures that her legacy is not about losing her battle with addiction, but about her life before that and about helping people like her to overcome and recover.
On the third anniversary of Nicky’s death, April 15, 2013, I was standing at the finish line of the 117th Boston Marathon. My friends and I were situated between the two blasts of the horrific Boston Marathon bombing. The aftermath of that day reinforced that the best of humanity can be found at a marathon – in those crossing the finish line in support of causes they care about, those cheering on their loved ones and strangers alike, and the strength and resilience of a city. So, on April 20th, I will lace up my sneakers and run for, and with, Nicky, in a race that symbolizes so much more than 26.2 miles.
