We threw Siobhan’s squad together back in 2022 right after I was diagnosed. We just needed a team name for an event.

This year we signed up for the Newport Half Marathon and somehow had a whole team of friends and family that also wanted to join.

So Siobhan’s squad grew and it continues to become, something, really something.

I’m still not quite certain where Siobhan’s Squad is headed, but I have some ideas.

When you have a terminal diagnosis you’re forced to face some uncomfortable realities, one of which is that I would like Siobhan’s Squad to carry on after I am gone.

I want family, friends, and strangers to always celebrate some of the things I have learned to hold dear:

• the power of love

• the incomparable strength that we can offer from supporting one another

• the honor of movement

• the resolve and grit we all have inside of us, we just don’t know it yet

I was absolutely honored to see my cousins wearing their Siobhan’s Squad gear for the New York Marathon. They are unparalleled examples of the family and friends who have selflessly and loyally supported us during this journey. They perfectly embody the moxie and tenacity it takes to just keep going.

This year, I am especially thankful for everyone who has in so many ways carried us. The donations, the heartening messages and thoughtful check ins- the magnanimous support. Everyday, I feel loved, and everyday it’s love that keeps me going.

Read more:

https://www.wgbh.org/news/local/2024-10-31/diagnosed-with-breast-cancer-at-age-33-while-pregnant-a-mothers-instinct-keeps-her-fighting

https://www.boston.com/community/boston-marathon/boston-marathon-2024-why-im-running-siobhan-vivian/

https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/boston/news/breast-cancer-diagnoses-young-women/

https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2024/04/12/siobhan-donovan-running-to-show-her-strength/amp/