Growing up in Newton, Diana Lane Jensen has childhood memories of walking to the Boston Marathon course to cheer on the runners, hand out water and oranges, and connect with her neighbors. As a child who was not especially athletic, Diana never imagined that she would one day be one of those runners.
Diana will be joining five other members of Team Metro Housing on April 16 when they run the 122nd Boston Marathon as part of the John Hancock Non-Profit Program. Team Metro Housing has had runners compete and raise funds through the Boston Marathon since 2006 having raised a combined $370,000 to prevent families and individuals throughout Greater Boston from becoming homeless and help households to transition from homelessness to stability.
“I started running in my 20’s and never looked back,” said Diana. “I’ve completed several half marathons, one full marathon, and triathlons.”
Now living in California with her husband and two sons, it is more than just the love of running that has Diana coming back home to compete in the Marathon.
“My mother is on the Board of Directors of Metro Housing|Boston and cares deeply about its mission. I love that I’m able to support her in that work and connect more deeply with my family’s community commitments in Boston by participating on the Team Metro Housing team.”
Diana was a member of the 2017 Team Metro Housing and raised $11,000 for the organization. Though that was a great accomplishment, Diana was unable to finish the race, leaving her disappointed.
“Last years’ experience was so incredible, and yet a little heart breaking to have to pull out so close to the end,” said Diana. “I’ve been training hard and feel that I’ve never been in better condition prior to a marathon. I’m incredibly motivated to get to that finish line this year!”
To support Diana and help her reach her fundraising goals, visit http://bit.ly/DianaRuns