Jack Lambert did it. Mission accomplished in more ways than one. Crossing the finish line at the 130th Boston Marathon on a chilly Patriots Day, in under four hours, was the result of months of training and a commitment to something bigger. Yes, he achieved his goal of completing his first marathon in the time he hoped, but he accomplished so much more than that. He made his family proud, inspired his friends and co-workers, and raised $35,000 for Red Door Community. And that money has real meaning, because it will help Red Door Community support hundreds of people, just like his family.
Jack’s father Matt, who is being treated for cancer, was on Jack’s mind every mile he ran, and in every email he sent asking his network for support. Jack said, “knowing my dad is battling cancer gave this entire journey a deeper perspective, his strength and resilience motivated me through every mile of training and race day.”
During the race itself, Jack did what any normal person would do…he questioned himself. Can I do this? Why did I do this? How can I keep going?
Jack found all of his answers in just 3 hours and 56 minutes. He also found his parents, friends, and family at the finish line. Beaming with pride, not just for his athletic accomplishment, but because he lived up to the promise he made to everyone who contributed to his cause. He couldn’t have done it without the support he received along the way, including the many well-wishes and thousands of dollars to support people facing cancer, just like his dad.
Matt knows that he isn’t alone in his diagnosis. Cancer has affected the entire family including Jack, so for Matt to see his son turn a difficult situation into a positive for so many people, he can’t help but be proud. He watched his whole family play a role in supporting Jack, from soliciting donations, to offering encouragement and even offering fashion consultations on his race-day outfit. Matt saw his community rush in to help a son honor his father, and it helped him get through some of those treatment days that require a little extra motivation.
“As I fight cancer for the 2nd time, my wife Sharon and I are so fortunate to have an incredible support group of family and friends, so we don’t have to fight cancer alone. We are blessed to also have 4 incredible children, and we are extremely proud of our oldest son, Jack, for his commitment and dedication in preparing to run the Boston Marathon and for his efforts in raising money to support the Red Door Community. Our proudest moment came after the race when we learned that Jack FaceTimed his 3 younger siblings as he crossed the finish line to have them share in the moment and support him during his challenging time. We all need to lean on our support communities in times of need.”
This all-around effort represents the best of what Red Door Community hopes to offer to anyone facing cancer: Support, Strength and Connection.
Red Door Community would like to thank Jack, the entire Lambert Family, and everyone who donated to support this milestone event.
To support Jack’s Boston Marathon fundraiser for Red Door Community, visit his page at: Jack Lambert
