Justin O'Connell is a resident of nearby Millville, Massachusetts. I met him when he was a student at BMR High School and I was a substitute teacher. He underwent several major surgeries since then, which most people would consider reason to lead a "cautious" life at best. But not Justin. He discovered a passion for running that culminated this year with his running the Boston Marathon. He was within a mile or so of the finish line when his experience was put on hold due to the terrorist bombings. He has not given up but rather has run several races since then and was invited to return for the 2014 race. Determination, passion for living, discipline, generous of spirit and giving of heart. This man is a hero worthy of praise and then some. His story, not the rubbish of tabloids or television "reality" shows, deserves to be told to America. I'm starting here on the Patch and hope this continues to grow....
