Running Boston. Honoring Veterans. Completing a Dream.
In April, Jenifer Liu will stand on the starting line of the Boston Marathon chasing something she began in 2021 with two dear friends — her sixth and final star in the Abbott World Marathon Majors challenge.
But this race is about more than a personal achievement. It’s about running every one of those 26.2 miles with purpose. Here is her story.
By Jenifer Liu
I’m honored to be the 2026 sole runner/ fundraiser for Friends of Wellesley Veterans, an organization that quietly serves the more than 800 veterans who call Wellesley home. Their work ensures that those who served our country receive the resources, recognition, and support they’ve earned.
Why This Race Matters
Running the Boston marathon is meaningful to me in more than one way. I went to high school just outside of Boston, and it’s where my love of running was cultivated as a member of the cross country team.
There is also something poetic about running Boston for this particular cause. My grandfather was a World War II veteran, having served in the Chinese Air Force alongside American fighters.
Miles 12-14 of the marathon course wind directly through Wellesley—the very community whose veterans I’m running to support. When I pass through those streets, every stride will be powered by the men and women who wore our nation’s uniform, and by supporters like you who believe in honoring their service.
My journey to complete six marathon majors has been a roller coaster: early mornings/late nights, countless miles, injuries, and moments when quitting seemed easier than continuing. But it has taught me something invaluable: the greatest achievements mean the most when they’re bigger than ourselves.
The Impact of Your Support
Friends of Wellesley Veterans does essential work that often goes unseen:
- They ensure every veteran in Wellesley knows about and can access the benefits they’ve earned
- They organize the annual Veterans Day celebration that honors service members across all eras
- They raise funds necessary to support Wellesley’s Wonderful Weekend, an annual community gathering to recognize those organizations and people who serve our community and country
- They partner with local organizations to create a network of support throughout the community
Here’s what your donation can do:
$25 helps provide materials for veteran outreach and education programs
$100 helps provide resources and support to an active duty military family
$250 sponsors recognition efforts for veterans at community events
$500+ makes a significant impact across multiple programs throughout the year
For more information about Friends of Wellesley Veterans, click here.
Join Me on This Final Star
Whether you can give $10 or $1,000, your support honors service, sacrifice, and community. Every donation tells our veterans: we see you, we remember you, and we’re grateful.
Thank you for standing with our veterans every step of the way.
This is my final marathon major. Help me make it count.