Jill Konopka runs Boston for blind and visually impaired athletes

In our “Why I Run” series, Boston Marathon runners share what inspired them to do the 26.2 mile hike from Hopkinton to Boston. If you are running the marathon, you can share your story here.

Name: Jill Konopka
Age: 41
From: Boston

There is a simple answer to the question “Why do I run in Boston”, and it is thanks to the amazing legally blind athletes affiliated with #TeamWithAVision and the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. They inspire me not only as a human but also as an athlete.

Legally blind runners like Chicago’s Tim Paul (pictured) motivating me to do the 26.2 mile trek in arguably the greatest marathon ever. Tim and other runners like him whom I have met through MABVI are living their lives to the fullest, crushing their personal and professional goals in running, even though they have little or no vision.

These are some of the most energetic, tenacious, focused, consistent, supportive, kind and confident people I’ve come to know – refusing to let anything come between them and their end goal.

It’s no secret that Tim took me across the finish line in 2018, cheering me on every step of the monsoon that was Boston. It was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life and I was honored to have it and lead guide Chris McLendon by my side. Tim and all of the MABVI athletes, guides and volunteers are truly an inspiration.

Editor’s Note: EThis entry may have been edited slightly for clarity or grammar.