Medford Resident Running Boston Marathon For Her Loved Ones

Becky Annacone is raising money for Dana-Farber as her husband battles a rare form of cancer.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:04pm

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Becky Annacone, a Medford resident, is running the Boston Marathon on April 20 to raise money for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute as her husband Jimmy battles ampullary adenocarcinoma, a rare form of cancer. Annacone also recently lost her father to bladder cancer, and she is working towards earning a marathon six-star medal by running six different major marathons around the world.

Why it matters

Annacone's story highlights the personal challenges many face when dealing with a loved one's serious illness, and how running and fundraising can provide a meaningful outlet during difficult times. Her efforts to support Dana-Farber and earn the prestigious six-star marathon medal also showcase the inspiring resilience of individuals who turn personal tragedies into opportunities to make a difference.

The details

Annacone, who describes herself as an 'asthmatic couch potato' in her youth, found a passion for obstacle course racing about 10 years ago. She did not let her nearly 40 years of age stop her from pursuing athletic goals. A year ago, her husband Jimmy was diagnosed with ampullary adenocarcinoma, a rare form of cancer, after experiencing symptoms like being run-down, nauseous, and turning yellow due to a blocked bile duct. Jimmy underwent surgery to remove the tumor and received chemotherapy, but the cancer spread. Around the same time, Annacone's father also passed away after battling bladder cancer. Annacone has been driving hundreds of miles every other weekend to support both her husband and father during their treatments.

  • Annacone's husband Jimmy was diagnosed with ampullary adenocarcinoma a year ago.
  • Annacone's father passed away after battling bladder cancer around the same time as her husband's diagnosis.
  • Annacone is running the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 20, 2026.
  • As of March 26, 2026, Annacone has raised over $9,500 towards her $14,000 fundraising goal for Dana-Farber.

The players

Becky Annacone

A Medford resident who is running the Boston Marathon to raise money for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute as her husband battles a rare form of cancer.

Jimmy Annacone

Becky Annacone's husband, who was diagnosed with ampullary adenocarcinoma, a rare form of cancer, a year ago.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

The cancer center where Becky Annacone's husband is receiving treatment and where the funds she is raising will go.

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What they’re saying

“He was diagnosed a year ago. He was run-down and nauseous, but the true warning sign was when he turned yellow because his bile duct was blocked. He had surgery to remove the tumor, and chemo as a precaution, but it spread.”

— Becky Annacone

“I'd drive for hundreds of miles every other weekend, trying to be there for them both. I wanted to do something - anything - that would make a difference.”

— Becky Annacone

“Fundraising gives my miles meaning. The response from the Medford community has been really positive. I've posted on a few community social pages, and I've also put a sign in front of my house and on my car. Neighbors have offered support and encouragement, and I've gotten to know more people.”

— Becky Annacone

What’s next

Annacone is working towards earning a marathon six-star medal, which requires running six different major marathons around the world. Her stretch goal is to complete the remaining races in Tokyo and London in 2027 for her 50th birthday.

The takeaway

Annacone's story is a powerful example of how individuals can turn personal tragedies into opportunities to make a difference, both for their loved ones and their broader communities. Her resilience and determination to support Dana-Farber while pursuing her own athletic goals is an inspiration to all.