We are excited to announce that one of the runners wearing a John Hancock Boston Marathon Non-profit Program invitational bib will be representing The Children’s Room this year! The goal is to reach $7,500 in donations — which is the amount needed to fund 5 children in our program this year.

On this page, and in the linked pages, Dr. Victoria Arthur shares her story. Find out what inspired her to challenge herself and others to reach out to the families who attend The Children’s Room, and those families on our waitlist, with a message of hope and support.

I’m a pediatrician at Lexington Pediatrics, and over the past seven years have seen The Children’s Room help many families as they face profound loss and grieve the death of a loved one. Every family has told me how much their experience at The Children’s Room has helped them cope, how much they valued the support.

My personal connection to The Children’s Room began after my brother Peter died suddenly at age 32 of a heart attack. Our family was completely shocked and forever changed. He left behind my amazing sister-in-law Jen and nephew Jeffrey. Two years ago, they became part of The Children’s Room family and network.Jen and Jeffrey invited me to come to The Children’s Room with them last spring. Although I spent the entire day in tears, I found The Children’s Room to be a place of hope and encouragement. I felt the need to do something.

I’m not a runner. This will be my first Marathon. This will be challenging both physically and emotionally for me. Why am I running? To say thank you to The Children’s Room for everything they have done for my patients and family. For the kids on the waiting list who so desperately need the care and support. To honor my sister-in-law Jen, and my nephew Jeffrey. And in memory of my brother Peter.

Thank you for your interest in this very worthy cause. I feel proud and privileged to be helping The Children’s Room.

- Victoria Arthur, MD

Victoria & Peter

Jeffrey & Jen

Jeffrey & Pete