SALT LAKE CITY – A dedicated nurse from Salt Lake City is preparing to lace up her running shoes for a cause close to her heart. Lindsey Vaillancourt, a Boston native now living in Utah, is set to participate in the Boston Marathon on April 21 as part of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge, an initiative that raises funds for cancer research.
Vaillancourt is among more than 500 runners selected to support Dana-Farber’s Claudia Adams Barr Program, which focuses on innovative early-stage cancer research. Since its inception, the program has raised an impressive $132 million to further advancements in cancer treatment.
A Personal Connection to the Cause
For Vaillancourt, this marathon is more than just a race—it’s deeply personal. She was inspired to run in honor of her maternal grandmother, who passed away from breast cancer when Vaillancourt was just two months old.
“I never got the chance to know her,” she said, “but hearing my family’s memories of her makes me feel connected to her.”
As a nurse, Vaillancourt has also worked directly with cancer patients, which has given her an even greater appreciation for the struggles they endure.
“Through nursing school and my career, I’ve cared for many patients battling cancer,” she shared. “It’s been a powerful experience that has motivated me to take on this challenge.”
From Lacrosse to Long-Distance Running
Vaillancourt has always been active—playing lacrosse in high school and college—but running became her personal outlet outside of team sports. When she was given the opportunity to use her passion for running to make a difference, she knew she had to take it.
“I’ve always loved running, but to be able to do it for a purpose like this is truly special,” she said.
Training for the Big Race
The road to the Boston Marathon hasn’t been easy, but Vaillancourt has committed herself to a rigorous training routine.
“I found out I made the Dana-Farber team in early December, and I’ve been training ever since,” she said. “During the week, I usually run between six and eight miles, and on weekends, I do a longer run.”
Although training can be demanding, she keeps her focus on the reason behind it all.
“There are so many cancer patients at Dana-Farber who would give anything just to be able to walk or run,” she said. “When training gets tough, I remind myself what a privilege it is to have the ability to do this.”
Family Support and a Meaningful Homecoming
Vaillancourt will return to Boston to spend Easter with her family before taking on the marathon the following day. She credits her parents and friends for being her biggest supporters throughout this journey.
“I wouldn’t be here without them,” she said. “It’s been a challenge, but their encouragement has made all the difference.”
Vaillancourt is still raising funds for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and donations can be made to support her marathon effort.
