Hi everyone! My name is Melissa MacKenzie, and I’m really excited to run the 2023 Boston Marathon to fundraise for Adaptive Sports New England! When I first heard about this organization, I was instantly drawn to the mission of supporting youth and adults with visual and mobility impairments by increasing access and participation in sports. Sports have always been a fundamental part of my life, providing me with a welcoming and enriching community. I am honored to run for a non-profit dedicated to expanding access to these experiences.

I attended the Para Sports Day this October to meet the Adaptive Sports New England team and see the programs they manage. The team explained to me that this event was aimed toward youth who were interested in trying out different sports to find which was the right fit for them. The excitement in the room was palpable, as athletes moved from one station to the next, participating in tennis, wheelchair lacrosse, sled hockey, boccia, soccer, and so much more.

At the soccer section, there were a handful of youth participants kicking the ball around, avoiding obstacles and coaches. For the entirety of the drill, athletes and coaches alike were laughing and shouting cheers to one another. The athletes were clearly enthusiastic about the sport and eager to learn more. I stood watching the activity for a long time, only to realize I was smiling so hard by finally feeling how sore my face was. Seeing the excitement and happiness from the athletes and their families who attended to support them made me even more excited to fundraise for this organization. It reminded me why sports are so important.

I can only describe my experience at the Para Sports Day as joyful and heartwarming. Completing my first Boston Marathon for an organization I truly believe in has always been a dream of mine, and I am so happy I have the privilege of running for Adaptive Sports New England! They have fostered a welcoming community for youth and adult athletes, coaches, families and volunteers. Experiencing the team at work is special, and their dedication to their cause is obvious.

I’m looking forward to joining running teams throughout Boston who organize weekly runs for athletes training to complete the 26.2 miles. Having grown up in Massachusetts, I know how harsh the Boston winters can be, but having a community of people to train with during the cold months will be extremely helpful! I will be fundraising for Adaptive Sports New England until the race in April. I will be reaching out to friends, family, and members of different communities to humbly ask for donations in support of this non-profit. If you have any interest in donating, you can visit my GivenGain page. Thank you in advance for any contribution you may give – it is appreciated beyond words!

I am so grateful to Joe Walsh and the entire Adaptive Sports New England team for welcoming me and supporting me in my fundraising efforts. I can’t wait to start this journey and cross the finish line!