BOSTON — The 123rd Boston Marathon is less than two weeks out and one runner is hitting the pavement in support of a young boy with cancer who is being treated at Mass. General Hospital.
But this isn't the first time this marathoner has run for the boy's family.
Quinn Regan has known Greg Gonzales since he was less than a year old. Greg became an unofficial member of the Regan family in 2009 when he ran on Mass. General's Boston Marathon team for Quinn's brother Jack who was battling leukemia.
"I just remember making huge signs," said Quinn.
Jack beat cancer, but 10 years later the Regan's found themselves back at MGH when Quinn was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma cancer. At 10 years old, his world stopped.
"It was hard. It was just like really nothing happy," said Quinn.
For nine months straight, he underwent aggressive treatment, but during those dark days, Quinn had hope from his family and friends.
"Just like seeing them every day. Just looking forward to what I'm going to do tomorrow. Instead of just laying in bed all day," he said.
Also from his old friend Greg, who will run the Boston Marathon for him.
"It's very exciting. I'm very happy for him and me," said Quinn.
The Boston Marathon is a huge deal at MGH. The wall in the Pediatric Unit is filled with pictures from past marathons - including one of Greg and Jack in the exact spot where Quinn will meet Greg and continue to cheer him on.
"Knowing that they are waiting there again at Mile 20 cheering you on... that's everything. That's why you race to see those smiling faces," said Gonzales.
Quinn's spirit is enough to inspire any runner pushing through 26.2 miles. While fighting cancer, he has made it to almost all of his hockey games and refuses to miss school when he's not in the hospital. Quinn will complete his last round of chemotherapy this week and has a message for others battling the disease.
"Just keep your head up and never stop trying. Then it will come as easy as it goes."
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