Christina Canniff, of Norwood, to participate in Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk

In 2011, life changed dramatically for Christina Canniff, now 26, of Norwood. Her husband, Josh Pincince, now 26, who was serving his last year overseas for the United States Marine Corps, tragically stepped on an IED. Luckily, he lived and did not lose any limbs. However, he suffers from a traumatic brain injury as well as severe post-traumatic stress disorder. Consequently, at 24-years-old Josh received an honorable discharge from the military and was labeled a “Wounded Veteran.” He was awarded a Purple Heart Medal for his bravery, sacrifice and service. Over the course of the next two years, Christina supported her husband through multiple physical and emotional treatments. She also found out unexpectedly that she was pregnant with her first child, a baby girl.

On October 19, 2013, Makenzie Marie was born. She was the first niece, grandchild, great grandchild and great great grandchild to enter both sides of the family and everyone was ecstatic. Just nine weeks later, the family’s excitement turned to distress when Makenzie was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. For the first six months of her life, Makenzie endured countless tests, biopsies, surgeries and treatments at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Jimmy Fund Clinic. “The night we found out Makenzie had cancer, my husband said something to me that I will never forget,” says Christina. “He said, “When I was overseas fighting in the war, it was just one small battle in this big war. But, I had to lookout for not only myself but my fellow soldiers. Makenzie’s war is her cancer and we are her soldiers there to protect her the whole way, through every little battle. And in the end, Makenzie will win this war. We will NOT ALLOW her to lose this war.” Thanks to the care that Makenzie received from the Institute and additional support from family and friends, she is here today.

On Sunday, Sept. 21, Christina will be among more than 8,500 people expected to participate in the 26th annual Boston Marathon® Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai. They will walk to collectively raise more than $7.5 million for the Jimmy Fund for lifesaving adult and pediatric patient care and cancer research at Dana-Farber.

As a first-time participant, Christina will tackle the Wellesley High School 13.1-mile route leading Making Moves for Makenzie, a new Walk team representing Christina’s three best friends from high school, formed in her daughter’s honor. At the heart of the team’s fundraising efforts, Makenzie will be pushed along the route in a stroller. Josh will be waiting for his wife alongside other family members at the official Copley Square finish.

On the evening of Sept. 21, the Prudential Center and The Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill Bridge will glow in red and yellow to mark the 26th annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk.

This year’s event will bring the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk’s 26-year fundraising total to more than $100 million. To register for the 26th annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai (#JimmyFundWalk) on Sept. 21, or to support a walker, visit www.JimmyFundWalk.org or call (866) 531-9255. Registration is easy and walkers can enter the discount code NEWS for $5 off.