Running Boston symbolizes 'everything we have overcome'

Boston Marathon

Rachel Doucette is running the Boston Marathon for the Brigham Stepping Strong Team and her fiancé, a disabled Coast Guard veteran.

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. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.

Name: Rachel Doucette
Age: 27
City/State: Brighton, Mass.

My fiancé, a 100% permanently and totally disabled Coast Guard veteran, is the reason I am running the 129th Boston Marathon. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 2016 to 2023 as a Petty Officer Second Class (E5). During those seven years, he participated in a variety of missions, including lifesaving operations at a heavy weather rescue station responding to two major hurricanes, counter-narcotics operations in the Pacific, and counter-terrorism operations in the Persian Gulf.

His service resulted in numerous lasting injuries, such as a stab wound, broken bones, torn rotator cuffs, chemical burns from firefighting, and long-term exposure to toxic substances. These injuries and exposures continue to affect his health and impact our daily lives. Knowing he may never have the chance to cross a marathon finish line himself, I am determined to do it for both of us.

The Boston Marathon represents a shared symbol of everything we have overcome together. Running for the 2025 Brigham Stepping Strong Team is my way of honoring him, advocating for better research and outcomes, and supporting all veterans and civilians affected by traumatic injuries. This race is not just about personal achievement; it is about making a difference and giving back to a community that has given so much.

My fiancé’s unwavering courage and the challenges we have faced together inspire me every day. Running the Boston Marathon is my tribute to him and a testament to our shared strength. It is an opportunity to honor his service, advocate for important causes, and support those who have been affected by traumatic injuries. Together, we will cross that finish line, symbolizing everything we have overcome and everything we continue to fight for.