Death and grieving are a natural part of living. But the tragic loss of a loved one is not something we naturally come to accept as part of the life cycle. Losing a spouse, a child, a sibling, or a close friend can be devastating and leave us wondering about the meaning of our own lives.

As a teacher, I believe in education and the healing power of learning. Thankfully, we are learning that grieving a tragic loss is an experience that must be recognized, and that such a profound loss calls for support. Grief support groups, under the guidance of staff and trained facilitators, help families make sense of their loss and engage in the process of healing. The Children’s Room, a center for grieving children, teens, and families, is a place where such learning takes place and where individuals and their families have the opportunity to find the support to live fully again.

Unfortunately, learning often happens as a reaction to a problem, or in the case of grieving, an unexpected tragedy. Knowing that places like The Children’s Room exist can ensure that those who find themselves grieving and without hope know they do not have to suffer alone.

On April 16th, I have the opportunity to run the Boston Marathon in an effort to spread the word about The Children’s Room and their work so fewer people are left facing tragedy and grieving alone. I am reaching out to my friends, family, former students, and teaching colleagues around the country to ask for support. By running each day wearing contact information about the Children’s Room, I hope to serve as an advertisement. I hope that when others see me running in the snow along the icy roads, they will see the information printed on my back and become a bit more aware of The Children’s Room.

In order to support the work of The Children’s Room, I am asking that you consider doing three things.

• First, make a contribution in my name to The Children’s Room so they can continue to increase their impact.
• Second, share the knowledge that centers for grief exist, and that nobody needs to suffer alone.
• Third, on April 16th and any time someone references the Boston Marathon, mention The Children’s Room and the work they do.

To make a secure online donation, please click the donate button on the top right of this page. You may also send checks to The Children's Room, 1210 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington, MA 02476. Please write "Marathon/Chris" in the memo line so that your gift will count towards my goal.

Thanks in advance for your help with this effort to educate others about the support which exists for those who have experienced a tragic loss.