Page 22 May 2014 By Sarah Stecko Last April 15, an unfathomable event occurred in Boston that changed the lives of many nationwide. And as America has proven before, after a terrorist attack, our nation comes together to show support for the victims of that city. The Boston Marathon bombings of 2013 were unlike any attack. No one would have predicted it, but in times of crisis, the United States comes together. One Run for Boston (ORFB) was created to help support those who were affected by the Boston bombing of that fateful day. ORFB is a coast-to-coast relay race beginning in Los Angeles and spanning across the nation to the original Boston marathon location. According to the ORFB website, there were 2,000 runners involved in the first race to aid in raising a goal of $1 million to care for the tragedy’s victims. Arizona was one of the states involved for the second time this past March 16 to April 13. Bryan Wilcox, a native of Arizona ran in the two relays that have been held so far. Evidently, the high school track star began running again later in life upon learning of the local group, Phoenix FIT, from a previous article in the Arcadia News . Wilcox had a few friends who were running the marathon that day in Boston. Fortunately they were not injured, but nevertheless it was a traumatic experience. The passionate runner chose to use his hobby to help a cause. “I have had my family members come to a race to support me and wait at the finish line and I can’t imagine such a horrific tragedy happening to someone close to me who came to support my participation,” said Wilcox. Phoenix was the second city out of nine on the journey across the map. The run had 46 stages, or groups, which runners could sign up to be in. Up to 25 runners could apply in the individual stages. The final stage of the state is referred to as a group stage and it could have any where from 100 to 1,000 applicants. The group stage was held at Papago Park in Phoenix. Pledges and donations raised benefit the One Fund Boston. Runners are encouraged to set a fundraising goal of $250 each, but will not be held responsible if it is not reached. “I think it’s important to support the victims because many of the people who survived will need a lifetime of expensive medical care, and for no reason than they came out to enjoy a race,” said Wilcox. “It was a senseless act of domestic terrorism and I believe as Americans, we need to band together to help each other through the aftermath.” For more information go to: www. onerunforboston.org. (Top) Arizona native Bryan Wilcox poses with his local relay team to raise money for One for Boston. (Bottom Right) A car has been signed by all CA and AZ participants. Coast-to-coast relay race to support Marathon victims CLASS OF 2014 Faith. Knowledge. Values. A 2010 National Blue Ribbon School, Saint Theresa offers a challenging curriculum designed to prepare students spiritually, academically, and socially for the future. Preschool through Grade 8. SAINT THERESA CATHOLIC SCHOOL 5001 East Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018 • 602-840-0010 x200 • www.stcs.us Congratulations! The entire Saint Theresa community would like to recognize and congratulate the graduating class of 2014. For all that you have accomplished, we are immensely proud. As you go forward through high school, college, your careers and your lives, we look forward to watching you grow and assume rewarding and responsible roles in society.