Derby man turns to running as therapy after loss

A Derby runner is among 12 people chosen by the Hartford Marathon Foundation (HMF) to represent the 2022 Inspiration Team at the Eversource Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon. Highlighted for their strength and resilience in the face of adversity, members of the team are joined by the collective of Eversource employees who volunteer at the event, empowering thousands to cross the finish line on race day, October 8, 2022.

Neil Connery’s passion for running started from heartbreak, it was a method for coping with severe depression after the death of his firstborn son, Gavin. Connery will feel Gavin's presence as he runs the half marathon next month in Hartford to raise awareness for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), the rare condition that took Gavin's life at 10 weeks old.

Connery says when he’s out for a run it helps him stay connected to his son. Running has also given him a platform to share the mission of the Gavin Connery Foundation, which raises funds for research and to help find the reason CDH affects babies like Gavin.

“The Inspiration Team is a beloved tradition that brings a small sampling of some amazing participant stories to light. It’s a wonderful opportunity to highlight people that have dedicated time and efforts to power through challenges; they inspire us to do our best to celebrate their achievements and all of those who cross the finish line on race day,” said Beth Shluger, CEO of the Hartford Marathon Foundation. “We are also so excited to celebrate the volunteers at Eversource who have come out for years to make race day a great experience for all involved, encouraging participants with smiles, cheers and incredible support.”

Joining Neil Connery on the 2022 Inspiration Team are: David Buono of Unionville Megan Christensen of Windsor, Kathy Flaherty of Newington, Michael & Haleigh Guerrera of Avon, Samara Johnson of Lebanon, James Joyce, Team Mason of Bristol, Malcolm Little of Hartford, Michael Lo Presti of Norfolk, Racquel Lunser of West Hartford, and Delmace Mayo of Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts.

The inspiration team concept was developed by HMF in 2011 and the purpose behind it motivated the creation of the new Who Powers You campaign of the Eversource Hartford Marathon. The appreciation campaign allows all race participants a chance to submit the name of someone who inspires them to cross the finish line in Hartford on October 8, with recognition on the course and throughout Bushnell Park for the person who powers them. The campaign kicks off September 12 and is open through October 7 for submissions.

Learn more about the Eversource Hartford Marathon events, register now or sign up to volunteer at www.hartfordmarathon.com.