‘Challenges are opportunities to grow stronger’

Name: Vicki Saengkheune
Age: 36
Location: Leominster, Mass.

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston.

On April 21, I will lace up my running shoes and take on the Boston Marathon—not just as a personal challenge, but as a mission driven by purpose and heart. I am running on behalf of the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center’s Radiation and Oncology Capital Project. The funds will help support the expansion and improvement of cancer treatment services, providing comprehensive, patient-centered cancer care by integrating advanced, cutting-edge technology, innovative treatments and compassionate support. I’m currently a clinical pharmacist for Beth Israel Lahey Health, and providing compassionate patient care is at the heart of why we do what we do every day.

I am also a mom of three littles—Caleb, Sophia, and Aria are my greatest motivation. I want my children to see that challenges are opportunities to grow stronger, and that persistence, compassion and dedication can turn hardship into hope. I want them to see the power of resilience, the importance of giving back, and that challenges—no matter how difficult—can be faced with strength, determination and purpose.

More than just a race, this journey is about hope, resilience and the unwavering fight against cancer—one that has touched the lives of countless people in profound ways. I will be running to honor the strength, resilience and courage of those fighting every day, notably close family members and friends whose lives have forever been impacted by cancer.

This isn’t just 26.2 miles—it’s a race toward hope, healing and progress. Together, we can make a difference!

Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.

Jessika Landon

Audience Engagement Co-op

Jessika Landon is the audience engagement co-op at Boston.com and a senior at Emerson College. She is a native of Bangor, Maine.