My name is Parker Coady, and I have been I member of the Boston Bulldogs for over 4 years. Words can’t express how thrilled and honored I am to have this opportunity to represent the Boston Bulldogs Running Club in the 2021 Boston Marathon.

Five years ago I decided to adopt a sober lifestyle due to struggles with drugs and alcohol. While at a local AA meeting I ran into a neighbor of mine who mentioned how she always saw me running alone. I replied, “Yeah, running has become a key tool in my recovery arsenal.” She went on to tell me about a local recovery based running group and recommended I join. I thought on it for a minute and figured, Why not?! Being fairly new to sobriety I did have trouble finding my way socially. “What do I have to do to join?” I asked. “Nothing”, she replied. “just show up and run”. So I did just that, and unknowingly completed the Bulldogs first principle.

For one of the first times in my life I was hooked instantly on something healthy and positive. The Boston Bulldogs just show up and run, their “giving back” principle gave new meaning to my sobriety. Not only could I remedy a week’s worth of mental hurdles by running at a conversation pace with like-minded individuals. I could also, lend an ear or even offer advice to another member that may need it.

Before I knew it a completely new form of dependency had formed, a healthy one -- dependent on showing, not only for myself but for the other members that might need me to. There would be plenty of nights, brutally cold nights, rainy nights, scary hot and humid nights or just plain old, I’m not feeling it kinda nights, that I would debate not going. Then I would think to myself, what if only one Bulldog shows up? What if they run alone? What if they are struggling and need to talk it out with someone? This run, this conversation, could be the difference in a relapse, and perhaps maybe even their life.

THAT IS WHY I HAVE TO GO….

THAT IS WHY I SHOW UP FOR THE BULLDOGS.

THAT IS WHY I AM A BOSTON BULLDOG.

THAT IS WHY I’M HONORED TO REPRESENT THE BULLDOGS.

For any donations to this wonderful group and cause that has not only transformed my life, but countless others, I thank you in advance!