Wayland Teacher, Natick Resident, Runs Marathon to Support 'Embrace a Family'

Photo via Crowdrise.com

“I have long dreamed of being an official runner of the Boston Marathon, and I am thrilled to have this opportunity because of the great work of Embrace a Family.”

The words are part of runner Miriam Morrison’s donation page. The Natick resident, who also teaches at the Happy Hollow School in Wayland, is running the Marathon in support of Embrace a Family, a Natick-based organization that focuses on helping families dealing with cancer.

“The emotional and financial strain of a cancer diagnosis can be devastating, and providing support to those coping with this disease is Embrace a Family’s mission,” writes Morrison. “Embrace a Family helps people in important ways, taking care of details for cancer patients so that they may focus on their healing. They provide rides to hospitals, meals for families, financial assistance, and access and aid in seeking out other services.”

Morrison shares personal stories of cancer that have affected her, particularly her friends and fellow teachers Pamela Washek and Jean Seiden, who started “The Angel Network,” which grew into the “Neighbor Brigade.” Both have since died but the Neighbor Brigade has grown.

More than $3,500 has been raised for Morrison’s charity. Donate here.

The Local in Wayland is helping the cause by hosting a fundraiser on Monday, April 6, at the restaurant, reports WaylandeNews. Mention Embrace a Family, or Morrison, that day/night and 10 percent of the check goes to the charity.

More on Patch:

• 39 From Natick Running in the 2015 Boston Marathon: Natick’s got many runners signed up for the Boston Marathon this year. Check out who’s running in your town.