I ran my first Boston marathon 13 years ago and after turning right onto Hereford and left onto Boylston I knew it wasn’t going to be my one and only time crossing that finish line. In 2013 I returned, only to have my run cut short less than a mile from the finish line. 2014 was a year of closure and now, five years later, I’m ready to get out and run my best Boston marathon! As I have in years past, I’m running to raise money for the Brookline Center, an organization who makes an incredible impact both in our community but for others as well. The Brookline Center ensures that anyone in need of mental health services is never turned away. They are also a center of innovation around case management and programs which support complex challenges presented by a mental health diagnosis. I’ve been involved with the Brookline Center for over 8 years and currently serve on its board. Throughout my life I’ve seen first hand how challenging mental health issues can be for families and friends of those affected. Quality and affordable services can be incredibly difficult to find. In Brookline, regardless of ones ability to pay, the Center is there to provide a safety net. In fact, due to the generosity of our supporters, the Center has provided more that $2.5 million in free or reduced fee services over the last five years. Please help me exceed my fundraising goal to ensure their incredibly important work can continue! Leah
