I am inspired by my 13-year-old sons, Shane and Riley. They are the reason I run and the reason I am a part of Team Hoyt.

My twins were born three months early and have cerebral palsy. Yet, my wife Lisa and I never think of them as handicapped. They do more sports than any other kids we know—they run, swim, bike, surf, river raft and snowboard. In the Pathman family we focus on being happy, embracing life and tackling fun activities. I have always loved the exhilaration I feel during a run and I was determined that my sons should be able to experience the same freedom, the same sense of accomplishment when crossing a finish line. That’s why Shane, Riley and I started doing 5ks, 10ks and triathlons together.

We’ve had to be creative to make it work. I designed a special handle for Riley’s walker to make it easier to push. Sometimes I actually have to carry Shane on my shoulders—because his foot turns in, his legs tend to cramp up. Still, even when I’m pushing Riley, we have been able to attain a 7:40 per mile pace. I have never run a marathon, but have always aspired to do so. I have watched and admired Dick and Rick Hoyt for years and consider them to be role models for my own life. 

Now I have the honor to run for Team Hoyt and that gives me even more motivation. I am thrilled to be training for the Boston Marathon on this amazing team. Shane and Riley won’t run this one, but will be there along with Lisa to cheer me to the finish. It’s my hope that in the not-too-distant future, I will develop the strength and stamina to run in a marathon together with my sons.

Riley puts in a tremendous effort just to get across a parking lot in his walker. Shane strives to keep up with other kids in school. If they can do that, I feel I should do all I can to push myself further. As I complete these 26 miles—and I know I will succeed in completing them—I will be driven forward by my support of Team Hoyt and my love for my sons.

Want to know more about Dick and Rick Hoyt and Team Hoyt http://www.teamhoyt.com

Want to see more of the Pathmans http://www.facebook.com/teampathman

Our team of both qualified and chairty runners have set a fundraising goal of $200,000 which would eclipse our former record by $75,000.  Please give generously as our runners train, sweat, hurt and raise funds for the Hoyt Foundation, Inc.  The Hoyt Foundation, Inc. is an IRS 501(c)(3) charity.  Checks can be made payable to the Hoyt Foundation, Inc. and mailed to 241 Mashapaug Road, Holland, Massachusetts 01521.

Please note:  Using this fundraising site costs money, if you would like to send a direct check please do, to me or above.  If you find it easier to use the site avoid the 'optional service fee' by zeroing it out.