In the wake of a devastating loss, Kelly Walsh, a dedicated nurse, shares her poignant journey of healing after the death of her husband, Mike.
Mike was a pillar of strength for their family. Kelly, along with their twins Ella and Tyler, faced unimaginable grief, but with time and resilience, they began to heal. The support of the community they found at The Children’s Room played a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of grief and parenting while grieving.
In her healing journey, Kelly has decided to participate in the Boston Marathon once again, not only as a physical challenge but also to raise awareness and help others get the support she and her children received at The Children’s Room.
Read on as Kelly shares her memories of Mike and her journey as she runs for those who can’t.
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My husband Mike passed away from Pancreatic Cancer a year ago at the very young age of 47. He was a healthy and active dad and partner to me for over 30 years. Our twins Ella and Tyler were 12 when Mike passed away after a year-long fight against this awful disease. We were devastated and heartbroken. There was and still is, at times, a gaping hole left in our family. Over time and with much hard work, we have begun to heal. As a nurse, I naively thought I was prepared to handle grief. Boy, was I wrong.
This is where The Children’s Room came in to support our family. I would have never known this type of help was out there. Their quaint and comfortable home was located a few miles away in Arlington. They were referred to us from various networks–Tufts Medical Center, where Mike was treated; Care Dimensions, where Mike spent his final week; and from neighbors and friends. We were all very reluctant at first to receive any help. But since the first visit, I have never had to ask Ella and Tyler to attend. They have provided me with classes and tools to learn how to parent while grieving. We participate in in-person support groups where other adults and children with similar experiences surround us.
This, and much more, are all free of charge to us due to fundraising efforts, which is why I joined.
I ran Boston in 2014 for Tufts Medical Center and loved every minute. Mike was there to support me every step of the way. I have been a runner for years, which has always been a significant part of my life. Completing a marathon is a big challenge. It takes dedication and discipline, along with physical and mental strength. Running has helped me maintain a healthy lifestyle for most of my adult life. Running with various running partners has held me accountable and built lifelong friendships. It has helped me to be a role model for my children. I have run two previous marathons, and my husband was at the finish of both. He encouraged me to train and continue to run even when he wasn’t well. He was by my side every step, and I would be honored to run another marathon with him watching from above.
Ten years later, I am on a very different journey. I am rerunning the Boston Marathon this year for those who can’t–to raise money and awareness because I am physically able! Mike was my life partner. He was my biggest cheerleader and encouraged us to reach for bigger goals.
The Children’s Room has been pivotal this past year in helping my children and myself grieve the loss of my husband. The resources they provide to families at a complete loss are crucial after experiencing something devastating. I wasn’t asked for a penny, but I realize these resources come at a cost. I would be honored to be able to give back to the Children’s Room.
Support Kelly today, CLICK HERE.
