Grace Giles is a psychologist, a lifelong runner, and a Bostonian who watches the Boston Marathon® every year. This year, she is proud to tackle the historic course as part of Team Samaritans and raise money for suicide prevention and awareness. She is inspired by not only the speedy elite runners, but also those who utilize their marathon experience to bolster charities and their important missions.
“Running the Boston Marathon for Samaritans just feels like a true privilege,” Grace said. “I’m really grateful for the breath and inclusivity of the resources that Samaritans offers. I hope that my participation can amplify Samaritans in both funds as well as awareness for the organization.”
A loss survivor herself, Samaritans’ programs really spoke to Grace. Specifically, the tagline, “You are not alone,” resonated with her. The 24/7 Helpline gives her hope that fewer and fewer will experience the losses that she, her family, friends and so many others have had.
Grace is approaching a milestone anniversary of losing a loved one to suicide, and she hopes that Samaritans can be a support for folks during difficult times. “I think our instinct is to turn inward, when in reality those are the times, we need support the most.”
“I hope we can continue to talk openly about mental health and illness, to talk openly about suicide and suicide prevention, to really reduce the stigma and continue to encourage conversation,” Grace said.
Samaritans’ encouraging, nonjudgmental listening is really one of the keys to preventing additional losses to mental health illnesses.
Show Your Support
Cheer Grace on as she tackles the historic Boston Marathon as part of Team Samaritans.
