ARLINGTON, MA — A resident is running with a purpose in this year’s Boston Marathon.
Alex Cucchi is taking the 26.2 mile journey on behalf of his younger brother, Thomas. Thomas Cucchi was diagnosed with autism at the age of two, and Alex Cucchi is looking to support him and other community members on the spectrum by raising money for the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. His online fundraiser has raised more than $42,000 as of Friday, April 20, which is approximately 85 percent of its $50,000 goal. Alex Cucchi raised a total of $110,000 in 2025, and said he is incredibly proud of the impact he has been able to make in the last two years.
“Thanks to organizations like the Flutie Foundation, families have access to programs and opportunities that make a real difference, that’s why I keep coming back,” Alex Cucchi said. “The Boston Marathon means everything to me. Patriots Day is the perfect reflection of what makes Boston special. It brings out the very best in our city, our people, and our community. There’s nothing like running through Boston and feeling that energy from start to finish.”
The financial advisor for Merrill Lynch emphasized that he is not fundraising and running for the purpose of recognition.
“What I love most are the charity runners. Everyone out there is running for something bigger than themselves, for causes that are deeply personal,” Cucchi said. “It creates this incredible sense of purpose and connection that you can feel in every mile. For me, it’s a chance to represent my family, give back, and be part of something truly meaningful.”
The Flutie Foundation is one of 193 organizations selected for the 2026 Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program. The nonprofit was established by Flutie and his wife in 1998 when their young son was diagnosed with autism. Flutie was a prominent quarterback at Boston College, and his NFL career concluded with a stint on the New England Patriots.
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