Boston Marathon
Mengyuan Flanagan is running the 2026 Boston Marathon for the Michael Lisnow Respite Center.
Mengyuan Flanagan is running the 2026 Boston Marathon. Mengyuan Flanagan
In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.
Name: Mengyuan Flanagan
Age: 39
From: Ashland, Mass.
Living in Ashland, I’ve watched the Boston Marathon pass through town every year.
Standing on the sidelines and seeing runners of all ages and backgrounds push forward while the crowds cheer them on has always been incredibly inspiring. I’ve long admired the determination and spirit of the runners, and I dreamed that maybe one day I could be part of it.
I started running about three years ago. At first, it was simply a way to get outside and move more. But, over time, running became much more than exercise. It helped my mental health in ways I didn’t expect. I felt happier, stronger, and more energized.
This year, I have the opportunity to run the Boston Marathon while supporting the Michael Lisnow Respite Center. I have volunteered at the center and have seen firsthand the incredible work they do.
The center supports children with rare and complex medical conditions and provides much-needed relief for their families. For many parents, caring for a child with special medical needs becomes a full-time responsibility filled with doctor visits, therapies, and constant care. For families with children ages 0–3, it can be especially difficult because traditional daycare options are often not available.
As a parent of two young kids with a full-time job, I already know how exhausting parenting can be. I can’t imagine how much harder it would be if one of my children had significant medical needs.
The Respite Center provides families with the support they desperately need. The caregivers are incredibly loving, and they help connect families facing similar rare diseases so they don’t feel alone. I feel incredibly honored to run the Boston Marathon and raise funds to support these amazing families.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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