Boston Marathon Profile: Veronica Reichardt​ Runs For Samaritans

WORCESTER, MA—Worcester has 29 residents running in this year's Boston Marathon.

Worcester Patch highlights those runners in the next few weeks up through the Marathon, happening on April 16.

Today, we meet Boston Marathon veteran Veronica Reichardt, who is 34. Reichard grew up in Nantucket, previously lived in Worcester, and just moved to Sturbridge. Good luck, Veronica!

Reason for running: I am running my fourth marathon for the Samaritans, and tenth marathon total. After my youngest and only brother, Vaughn, died by suicide in 2007, I found help and support at Samaritans. Samaritans has grown to become my family. They have made such a difference in my life, and the lives of many others. They have opened my heart to happiness and showed me that, even with a loss, we can heal by sharing my brother’s story. By sharing his story, I have learned to make a difference. The love that my brother had for his family and friends was so hard to describe. This is why I run — I run for Vaughn.

Training tip: Make sure you stick to your plan. Stick to your program as best as you can. If you skip a day, don’t get down on yourself. Make it up the next day or just let it go. It’s all about the dedication and determination of your program. I’ve been doing the John Furey marathon program for the past four years.

Best music to run to: My favorite music to listen to is something I can sing along to. Usually today's hot hits, Justin Timberlake, a little Beyoncé. A little Red Hot Chili Peppers, SB’s Rage Against the Machine. I’m a little all over the place. I’m the crazy lady who runs down the street, practically dancing not running.

Photo submitted