Running enthusiasts from all over the world travel to Massachusetts to partake in the annual Boston Marathon, held every April on President’s Day. This year, David Veling, a special education teacher at the high school, is participating in the marathon.

Veling is not running solely for exercise purposes. He has been offered a spot to run on the Miles for Miracles team, which raises funds for families and patients who are served by Boston Children’s Hospital (BCH). Veling has a close connection to Children’s Hospital, his son, James. When James was born, he suffered a stroke. Since then, he has been with dozens of doctors and specialists at Boston Children’s Hospital who have all treated him with exceptional care. David knows James’ future will consist of health and learning problems, but he is confident that the staff at Boston Children’s Hospital will support James every step of the way.

The care received from BCH has made it possible for James to engage in his favorite activities, such as running. At just six-years-old, James ran a 5k alongside his father. This would not have been possible without BCH. Veling is encouraging friends, family, and members of the community for donations for the run, all of which would go to Boston Children’s Hospital. His goal is to reach $15,000 in donations. To find out more about Veling’s run or to donate, go to Veling’s Boston Children’s Hospital team fundraising page or click here.