Spencer Bernstein's Boston Marathon Fundraiser

The Boston Marathon shuts down 26.2 miles of Massachusetts' busy streets and determined runners replace morning traffic. Spectators line the streets in high spirits, with intense tailgates and loud cheering.

For the past decade, I've been one of those spectators, cheering on runners and biking up and down side streets with my friends.

As I stood there, year after year, watching the marathon unfold, I couldn't help but imagine myself in their running shoes-the thrill of the race, the camaraderie among the runners, and the sense of accomplishment.

This upcoming Boston Marathon falls on my 18th birthday, finally making me old enough to participate and fulfill a lifelong dream.

Yet, over the past year, participating in the marathon has become less about experiencing the thrill and accomplishment of the race. It's become a dedication to my late friend Preston, who passed away following a 22-day battle in the hospital after collapsing during a high school basketball game.

In Preston's short fifteen years, he made an incredible impression on many with his contagious smile and charismatic personality. Preston knew everyone, and everyone knew Preston.

Preston's passing profoundly impacted me, making the recent cardiac episodes of athletes like Damar Hamlin and Bronny James feel even more personal. A June 2022 Mayo Clinic article reports sudden cardiac arrest as a leading cause of death in young athletes. These stories remind me of the risk's young athletes face, and participating in the marathon has become a way for me to honor Preston and raise awareness about the importance of heart health.

I need your help fundraising for the Preston Settles Memorial Fund which focuses on discovering and caring for people with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. I am hoping to reach a goal of $15,000 by April 15! Thank you and I can’t wait to represent Preston and all of you on Marathon Monday!