Recruiting Runners in Support of Cancer Care

South Shore Health is recruiting runners for its 2017 Boston Marathon Team. This year marks the team’s seventh year, thanks to the charity bibs provided through the generosity of Marathon lead sponsor John Hancock Non-Profit Marathon Program. The team runs in support of cancer care programs at South Shore Health.

We talked with veteran runner Anne Marie Winchester on why she runs for the South Shore Health team.

Name: Anne Marie Winchester

Hometown: Duxbury, MA
Number of marathons run: 15
Years running on South Shore Health System team: 5

What makes running the Boston Marathon so special?
There are so many things to like about Boston. For me it's a feeling of being on my home course, and I just love the crowd from start to finish. That last stretch on Boylston Street is just incredible.

What is your advice for someone running the Boston Marathon for the first time?
Relax and don't go out too fast. Boston starts on a downhill which automatically makes you start fast. You're going to need all of your energy to make it that last couple of miles, especially with Heartbreak Hill right at mile 20.

Why do you run for South Shore Health's team and what does it mean to you?
A family friend was a nurse at South Shore Hospital. She passed away from ovarian cancer about five years ago, so I have always run for cancer care in her memory since joining the South Shore Health team. South Shore is my community hospital, and I’m proud that I'm also involved with the hospital as a Foundation Trustee and a member of the Friends of South Shore Health Board.

Why is it important for you to raise money for cancer care programs?
Many of our friends and family living in our region have been touched by cancer. Marathon funds will support the latest diagnostic technology, advanced surgical procedures, comprehensive inpatient care and access to clinical trials, new therapies and expert clinicians.

How would you encourage other runners to join the South Shore Health team?
The South Shore Health team plans out an extensive training program and has a physical therapist available to get you to the start line in April. If you need help with fundraising, they offer plenty of tips to reach your goal. The accommodations on race day also make you ready to run 26.2 miles. They provide a ride to Hopkinton and set up an indoor space to get you prepared and comfortable while the nerves are bouncing around. It’s a great charity team to run for.

Learn more about Primary Care at South Shore Health.