Mansfield mom returns to love of running after daughter’s cancer

Rebecca Boncoddo of Mansfield is among eleven people chosen by the Hartford Marathon Foundation (HMF) to represent the 2023 Inspiration Team at the 30th running of the Eversource Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon on October 14, 2023. Team members represent the resilience, motivation and kindness of the running community who have made the marathon a tradition so special since its inception in 1994.

After starting a running journey to fundraise for pediatric cancer in support of friends who lost their 10-month-old, Rebecca continued running for her own physical and mental health. Three years later, Rebecca’s world turned upside down when her then 6-year-old daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. After 800 days of chemotherapy, countless blood transfusions and 60+ nights in the hospital, Rebecca’s daughter ended her treatment in February. Rebecca laced up her running shoes and slowly put one foot in front of the other again. She believes even after life’s horrible turns, you can always find your way back to running, and she can’t wait to see her daughter at the finish line after their long journey together.

“The success of the Eversource Hartford Marathon is because of our dedicated runners, volunteers and sponsors. The members of this year’s Inspiration Team represent members of the community who inspire or make a positive impact on those around them,” said Josh Miller, President of the Hartford Marathon Foundation. “We are excited to celebrate this year’s race milestone and look forward to celebrating the achievements of all the runners who cross the finish line on race day.”

Joining Rebecca Boncoddo on the 2023 Inspiration Team are:

• Rachel Berkowsky of Windham
• Christina Carmon of Windsor
• John Garde of Westfield, Massachusetts
• Ron Gold of Saddle River, New Jersey
• Debra Lombardo of Waterbury
• Jose Lugo of Hartford
• Erin McDonald of Waterford
• Steph McKenna of Ellington
• Anthony Rykowski of Naugatuck
• Jennifer Zarrilli of Wallingford

Each Inspiration Team member will either be running the 5K, half marathon, or full marathon on race day. Members of the 2023 Inspiration Team will be profiled within the Eversource Hartford Marathon Insider’s Guide and receive complimentary race registration, PRE Perks experience and custom event apparel. The inspiration team concept was developed by HMF in 2011.

Learn more about the Eversource Hartford Marathon events, register now or sign up to volunteer at www.hartfordmarathon.com.