In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon runners share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston on April 15, 2019.

Name: Morgan Williams

Age: 27

From: Boston

Bib #: 30064

I am excited and honored to be running the 2019 Boston Marathon for IMPACT Melanoma. As a 27-year-old female I never would have thought of melanoma as a possibility, but I’ve since learned that melanoma is one of the most common cancers in young adults.

I had planned to run the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 7, 2018, training all the way up to 18 miles. I raised over $1,100 for the American Heart Association with the help of some amazing family and friends. I went to the dermatologist.


In September I had a mole test positive for melanoma in situ. This I quickly learned is the earliest and best stage to catch melanoma. After surgery a week later, the melanoma was removed; I’m healthy and forever grateful to the dermatology team at Tufts Medical Center.

The recovery period after surgery doesn’t allow for strenuous activity. I observed the 2018 Bank of America Chicago Marathon from the sidelines.

On April 15th, 2019, I will finally be able to run 26.2 in a city that has become my home, while supporting a cause that is close to my heart.

IMPACT Melanoma (formerly the Melanoma Foundation of New England) is a national non-profit organization dedicated to reducing the incidence of melanoma through education, prevention, and support.

Being a part of IMPACT Melanoma will allow me to spread awareness of the importance of skin safety and help to prevent cases like mine. Please join me in this cause. I can’t thank you enough for your support. Together we can make an IMPACT!

Check out our entire “Why I’m Running” series.

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Editor’s note: Entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.