Local Runners Among Thousands Preparing For Boston Marathon
DETROIT (CBS DETROIT) - Runners from across the country are preparing for the Boston Marathon. Close to home, Sarah Gryniewicz says the purpose is different since the bombing in 2013.
"Before when I ran it was a lot more about trying to set your personal best for yourself but with the bombing and with the community of runners it's a lot more people come to Boston to run for the people of Boston," said Gryniewicz.
Gryniewicz, who is sponsored by RUNdetroit, had finished the race two years ago and was in her hotel room when the tragedy happened.
"It was difficult to try to figure out how to respond," she said. "You were happy you finished the marathon but then this terrible thing happened that impacted so many different people's lives so you were unsure of how to act."
Dr. Jeremy Nobel, president of the Foundation for Art and Healing says resilience has grown since the act of terror in Boston.
"There are many factors that increase resilience: close relationships with family and friends, a sense of confidence in being able to adapt and respond to adversity, good problem solving and communication skills, and an ability to frame negative events within a context that allows the perception of at least a partial positive meaning," said Nobel.
Katie Singer has completed the race eight times and talks about the resilient energy felt in Boston during marathon time.
"There are kids all along the courses that slap your hands like you are a hero, the city is amazing — the support for it. I don't really have a time goal — I'm just coming in and I just want to enjoy this experience. One of the best marathon experiences you can have."