This runner is raising awareness about stroke and heart disease

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.

Name: Liz Lang
Age: 48
From: Jackson, NJ

I’m running the Boston Marathon as a celebration of resilience, transformation, and hope. My journey began in 2006 with a heart arrhythmia diagnosis which was a wake-up call that pushed me to change my lifestyle. Guided by my doctor’s advice and inspired by my family’s history of heart disease and stroke, I committed to healthier choices: quitting bad habits, embracing fitness, and focusing on nutrition. Even when my ECGs continued to show setbacks, I stayed determined and, after years of dedication, finally received a clean bill of heart health.

In 2025, life threw another curveball with a diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder that increases my risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. Arriving at the diagnosis wasn’t easy; I had to advocate for myself every step of the way. I felt something was wrong, insisted on additional tests, and pushed to see a specialist. It was only through this persistence and self-advocacy that I was eventually diagnosed with the disorder. This new challenge has taught me that perseverance and self-advocacy are key to managing my health.

The 2026 Boston Marathon will be my first Boston Marathon. It will be an opportunity to inspire others facing similar battles. By fundraising for Tedy’s Team, I’m raising awareness about the warning signs of stroke and heart disease and supporting vital efforts in research and community outreach. If I could inspire even one person reading this right now to be proactive about their health — to listen to their body, ask questions, and take steps toward a healthier lifestyle — then every mile and every challenge will have been worth it. I hope my story motivates others to prioritize their health. Join me in supporting Tedy’s Team’s life saving work.

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

Kelly Chan

Content Producer

Kelly Chan is a content producer at Boston.com. She designs multimedia content on-site and across social media platforms, and experiments with new ways to engage readers.