Hanscom FCU Marathon Team Raises $31,000 for Childrens Health
April 17, 2017
Hanscom Federal Credit Union is a purpose-driven organization based in Littleton, MA, empowering its members to achieve financial wellness. Guided by its five core values of Members First, Integrity, Teamwork, Innovation and Empathy, Hanscom FCU serves more than 100,000 members across the country.
Photo: Mike Rzeszutek and Timmy Stevens cheer on their teammates.
Hanscom AFB, MA (April 18, 2017) – Hanscom FCU raised over $31,000 for Boston Children’s Hospital at the 2017 Boston Marathon. This is the 18th year the credit union has participated in the race.
“We are fortunate to have a generous group of supporters, including our membership,” said Paul Marotta, Hanscom FCU Chairman of the Board. “I extend my personal thanks to everyone who donated. This is such a special day each year, knowing how many families here and around the world benefit from the work Boston Children’s Hospital does.”
Hanscom FCU is part of the CU Kids at Heart Team, founded in 1996. The team had 21 runners and raised over $400,000. These funds are committed to funding pediatric research projects at Boston Children’s Hospital, focusing on Moyamoya disease, Sturge-Weber Syndrome, pediatric brain tumors, and cerebral palsy.
The three members of Team Hanscom trained for months leading up to the race. They were paired with patient families who cheered them on, including two long runs on the race course sponsored by the Boston Marathon organizers.
Ray Phillips, a master marathoner, has run every year since 2000. His inspiration and dedication are the backbone of this program. Ray and his patient partner Chris, who became fast friends this year, met up at the end of the race to celebrate another finishing medal.
Andy Martin, Jr., completed his third race with a personal best time. Andy was Ray’s patient partner for 14 years. After watching so many races, he was inspired to compete in the wheelchair division himself as soon as soon as he could qualify.
Mike Rzeszutek ran his first marathon in 2015. Since then, he and his patient partner Timmy forged a strong bond, and Mike became an indispensable member of the racing team. After completing the full training program this year, Mike developed an injury and had to bow out. But not before raising thousands of dollars to help people like Timmy.
Donations are still being accepted at www.hfcu.org/marathon.