April 15, 2013 is a day none of us will ever forget. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to the victims, the witnesses, and all who have been affected by this senseless tragedy—especially Jeff Bauman and Michele Mahoney, who were both seriously injured near the finish line while cheering for Team Stork. If you would like to learn how to support Jeff, Michele, and other survivors and their families, please click here.

While this has been a heartbreaking time for all of Boston, we would still like to express our immense pride in Team Stork and all they have accomplished. Training and fundraising for a marathon is incredibly challenging and often grueling work. We are grateful to all of our team members for their grit, determination and, of course, their dedication to Brigham and Women’s Hospital. We are also grateful for the abundant spirit and generosity of our many supporters, who helped carry our team through their journey.

Following the marathon, we gathered members of Team Stork together to reunite, share stories, and celebrate the achievements of the season and all of the personal triumphs that can never be taken away. In each conversation, a common theme emerged, one of perseverance and strength. “I’ll be back next year” was the mantra of the evening.

Indeed, we will be back next year, stronger and more determined than ever. We will run again.