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Three members of Team Brigham not only are undertaking an intense physical challenge as they take their mark in Hopkinton, race up and over Heartbreak Hill and cross the finish line of the 114th Boston Marathon in Copley Square; they also are starting a new year off on the right foot as they celebrate their birthdays.
“It’s a unique experience,” said cardiovascular surgeon Michael Davidson, MD, who will turn 40 on Monday when he runs his first marathon. “There is no better way to commemorate a birthday, run the marathon to achieve a personal goal and, in the process, support Team Brigham and its mission to help so many people.”
Davidson and his Team Brigham colleagues will be among about 25,000 participants as they traverse eight cities and towns on a legendary marathon course that attracts runners from around the world. In addition to completing the course, team members aim to raise a collective $500,000 to support the hospital’s community programs.
Alexandra Machado Michael Davidson April Stein
To help the team reach its fund-raising goal, Alexandra Machado asked her friends and family to donate to Team Brigham in lieu of birthday gifts, as she also celebrates her birthday on Marathon Monday. “It’s a special way to get everyone involved and make a difference,” said Machado, whose father also is a member of the team.
Machado, a financial client service representative in a Boston firm, will turn 31 and with one Boston Marathon under her belt, she is looking forward to this special day. “Some people take the day off, but I choose to commemorate my birthday by running,” said Machado, who is about halfway to her fund-raising goal of $3,500.
Running on her birthday was also in April Stein’s plan. A BWH clinical social worker, Stein had her heart set on running the Boston Marathon, but a leg injury sidelined her. It hasn’t stopped her commitment to Team Brigham, though, as she continues to raise money for the team.
“It’s bittersweet, but nothing is going to stop me from helping,” said Stein, who will turn 27 Monday and has completed several road races including several half-marathons and two full marathons. “I will get my chance to run and do it again next year. It won’t be on my exact birthday again, but the mission of helping BWH’s community services will be just as special.”
To support Team Brigham runners, visit www.firstgiving.com/teambrigham2010/