Montco Woman, Breast Cancer Survivor, Readies For Boston Marathon

GILBERTSVILLE, PA — Every year, tens of thousands of runners line up for the Boston Marathon, one of the most historic athletic events in the world. And every year, the field is comprised of people that come from all walks of life: from hardened athletes, weekend warriors, and runners looking to shed pounds, to those dedicated to raising awareness to any number of causes.

This year, among those lining up is Montgomery County's Nancy Niconovich, a breast cancer survivor who is running for a cause near to her heart.

Niconovich, of Gilbertsville, is raising funds in support of the MassGeneral Hospital for Children’s Pediatric Cancer Team. The money will go towards "pioneering research, clinical initiatives and quality of life services such as art and music therapy which help pediatric cancer patients cope emotionally and developmentally with their illnesses," according to the hospital.

Niconovich is running as a part of a 102-runner team that has raised $13.5 million for the cause since 1998.

“I have a unique perspective into the lives of children undergoing lifesaving cancer treatment at MassGeneral,” Howard Weinstein, chief of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology at MassGeneral and 18-year captain of the pediatric team, said in a statement. “These runners, who dedicate so much of themselves to training and fundraising efforts, become partners in our mission to conquer childhood cancer. They go the extra mile and their support is essential to our continued holistic approach to cancer care.”

The 122nd Boston Marathon is set for April 16.

Image via MassGeneral