South End Runner Hasn't Let Cancer Slow Her Down

South Ender Patricia Island has been running for as long as she can remember, participating in cross-country during her high school years and continuing the hobby through college and for most of her adult life. Like many recreational runners, Island jogs for her own enjoyment. She says running gives her a chance to clear her head and stay centered.

Recently however, Island gained a new reason to run; in November of last year, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and began treatment at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

“When you go through something of this magnitude, it becomes really clear what’s important to you,” Island said over coffee recently. “Just a heightened appreciation for everything.”

Boston Marathon Bound

Island was able to keep running during chemotherapy and decided to join the Dana-Farber team in the B.A.A. Half Marathon this month. She and her husband raised $3,000 for the organization and both finished the race, held October 9. It was Island’s first official half marathon.

“I heard about the Dana-Farber Half Marathon team and thought, ‘this could be something positive to focus on and a diversion from all the doctors appointments,’” Island said, “and [it’s] a way to give back to this extraordinary organization. I just feel so fortunate to be living in Boston and to be treated at Dana Farber.”

Island, who works as Vice President of Merchandising at Trader Joe’s, is no stranger to giving back. Before relocating to Boston she volunteered her time with an organization teaching underprivileged communities about food and nutrition in the San Francisco area, a passion she wants to continue on the East Coast. 

In the mornings, Island can be found running on the Esplanade or through the financial district. The cancer, though life altering, hasn’t kept her from doing what she loves – Island is now a member of Dana Farber’s Boston Marathon team in 2012. 

“On a number of levels it’s been a good thing, strangely,” she said of her diagnosis. “I’ve been fortunate that I’m at a good place in my life, not that it’s ever a good time, but I certainly feel very, very fortunate to have the life I have.”

To donate to Island click here.