I have been running this marathon for the past few years, and this year the incentive to run is not only for my Aunt Marlene, but also my Mother, whom I lost last year. The anticipation is even greater than in the past and the excitement of the run and reason for it has already started to build. The reward is knowing that I am contributing to the mission of Tedy’s Team as well as, my personal donation to the cause. As I cross that finish line, I know that Mom and Aunt Marlene’s positive energy pushed me to achieve this great accomplishment again. I realize that everyone who is part of this great organization is in it for their own unique and individual reason. My driving force is still my Aunt Marlene. At only 38 years old, a young wife and mother, she suffered what would be to most, a life ending stroke. This physical impediment is what drove Marlene to show the world, how to bounce back from adversity and live life to the fullest, despite the major setback. Yes, she had physical limitations, but her spirit was impossible to suppress. In fact, she recovered in a way that made her even more beautiful as she demonstrated to us with a positive and awe-inspiring attitude, that no disease, despite all their pathology, can triumph over a willing and enduring spirit. Marlene continued to live life resolutely and undeniably inspiring all who knew her. Fast forward to today, where I am in a different place in life, as a father, friend, mentor and a little more advanced in years and wisdom. About two years ago, I took stock of my life and discovered, that because of a stressful work life and in part because of the chaos of life (and even some laziness), I allowed myself to gain weight and generally become unhealthy. Looking back at how Marlene overcame her adversity reminded me that there were no excuses for living a substandard life. I took it upon myself to “hit the reset button”. Because of making this life changing decision, I started running and it literally changed my life. I strive every day to show my son and others who know me, that one can reprioritize their life and get back to the values that matter. It wasn’t only the decision to embark on a health kick that has made this possible. It has been the powerful motivator re-joining Tedy’s Team and participating in all its races. My hope is doing this is that I will be able to inspire others, like Marlene, and support the great cause of financially supporting the American Heart Association. Because of this goal, my aim is to keep moving forward to a better life for myself and making a difference in the lives of those like my Aunt Marlene. Thank you for supporting me as I embark on this journey once again in 2022.
The mission of Tedy's Team is to raise awareness for stroke and heart disease while supporting survivors on their journey, giving them a means for a comeback!
Tedy's Team was originally founded in 2005, when Tedy Bruschi, former linebacker for the New England Patriots suffered a stroke shortly after winning his 3rd Super Bowl and just days after returning from his first Pro Bowl.
Tedy's Team participates in the Boston Marathon, Falmouth Road Race, and this year's travel event is Duke City Race Weekend in New Mexico!
We are honored to be part of the Official Charity Program of the Boston Marathon and the Numbers for NonProfits Program at the New Balance Falmouth Road Race for 15 years. The Boston Athletic Association and the NBFRR have allowed us to utilize their platforms to elevate the awareness of the warning signs of stroke, which are best remembered by using the acronym BE FAST, which stands for:
• Balance Difficulties
• Eyesight Changes
• Face Drooping
• Arm Weakness
• Speech Difficulties - and if you notice any of those warning signs, it's...
• TIME TO CALL 9-1-1.

Should you ever have any questions about your donation, please reach out to Elizabeth@TedysTeam.org.