She’s running her first Boston Marathon for the Children’s Museum

Boston Marathon

“As a veterinarian and mom of three boys, I love that the Children’s Museum offers so many play and enrichment opportunities to spark kids’ interest in learning and to make learning fun.”

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.

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Name: Dr. Diana Watkins, DVM
Age: 47
City/State: Cohasset, Massachusetts

This will be my seventh marathon, and my first time running the Boston Marathon. I’m beyond excited to run in this legendary race, and equally amped to be running to help raise money for children and families to enjoy experiences at the Boston Children’s Museum.

As a veterinarian and mom of three boys, I love that the Children’s Museum offers so many play and enrichment opportunities to spark kids’ interest in learning and to make learning fun. I love taking my boys there, and I’m proud that the money raised will enable programs for kids and families in need an opportunity to experience this celebrated museum.

I only started running when I became a mom now 13 years ago. I needed exercise to release stress and keep my body healthy and running fit my lifestyle perfectly. Running required no advance planning and limited equipment. I’d head out at the drop of a hat, often pushing the boys in a double wide jogging stroller. I’d joke that road races should have a special “stroller division” as it added a little strength training in!

Other times, when I was feeling the stressors of new motherhood, I would lace up and take to the streets solo, leaving the kids with a sitter or my husband and the feeling of running all alone was so therapeutically liberating. The quiet steady beat of my feet on the pavement became meditative. I still use running to meditate, although now it often involves thinking through tough medical cases from the week rather than how to keep my sanity during the toddler years.  

Every morning before work you will find me out running with a group of female friends, who have been a huge support system during my training. Most days we run past our beloved local Minot lighthouse, which I chose to name my veterinary clinic after (143 Veterinary Services).  It flashes 1-4-3 and is nicknamed the “I Love You” lighthouse.  

My other marathons have included the New York Marathon three times and several local marathons. On April 21st , I’m ready for 26.2 miles of screaming kids, barking dogs,  supportive cheers, and best of all an incredible memory that I’ll never forget – my first-ever Boston Marathon.

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