Lacing up for Levi: Mike’s Boston Marathon Journey
- Nevus Outreach
- Feb 6
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 9
When Mike first signed up to run the Boston Marathon, it wasn’t because he had always dreamed of qualifying as an elite runner or chasing a specific finish time. It was about family, community, and stepping into a challenge with purpose.
For Mike and his wife Leslie, Boston has always held a special place. They have family in the area and had experienced the race before as spectators, witnessing firsthand the energy, emotion, and deep sense of meaning that surrounds it.
“When we heard about the opportunity to run as a charity runner, it felt like something we couldn’t pass up,” Mike shared. “It was a chance to take on a fun challenge, but more importantly, to represent something that means everything to us.”
That something is Nevus Outreach — and their son, Levi.
Finding the CMN Community
Like many families in the CMN and NCM community, Mike and Leslie’s journey began unexpectedly. Levi was born with congenital melanocytic nevi, something they had not anticipated or been prepared for.
“Those early days were overwhelming,” Mike said. “As parents, you feel scared and unsure of what comes next.”
Through their pediatric dermatologist, they were connected early on with the CMN community and attended their first Nevus Outreach conference when Levi was just three months old.
“That conference changed our lives,” Mike said. “It was a lot — like drinking from a fire hose — but in the best way. We walked into the airport feeling overwhelmed and unsure, and we walked out feeling hopeful, supported, and not alone.”
That sense of community has remained a constant for their family ever since.
Running With Purpose
While Leslie is a seasoned runner — even running in the Boston marathon a few times before herself — Mike describes himself more as an athlete than a runner. Soccer, staying active, and keeping in shape were familiar territory. Marathon training, however, was a whole new challenge.
“Being athletic is not the same as being a marathon runner,” he laughed. “Putting your feet on the road for hours at a time is completely different.”
Training started strong, but like many runners, Mike faced setbacks. A tweaked Achilles early in training forced him to slow down, listen to his body, and adjust expectations. “That was probably my biggest challenge so far,” he said. “Learning that not everything goes according to plan, and that managing setbacks is just part of the process.”
Balancing training with life as a new parent has also required flexibility. “Time management is tough,” Mike admitted. “Sometimes things around the house slip a bit, so I can get that run in — but it’s all part of the season we’re in.”
Motivation on the Hard Days
On difficult training days, Mike’s motivation is clear.
“Levi,” he said without hesitation. “Running for him, running for the community.”
He often thinks about the Boston Marathon itself — the crowds, the emotion, the collective support for every runner on the course.
“It’s not like any other race,” Mike said. “The whole city shows up. You can feel that there’s more at play.” For now, his goal is simple: get to the start line healthy and cross the finish line.
“Finishing is an accomplishment in itself,” he shared. “If I can run most of it and finish strong, that’s a win.”
Why Nevus Outreach Matters
When asked what resonates most about Nevus Outreach’s mission, Mike points to its three pillars: awareness, support, and research.
“Each one carries so much weight,” he said. “Awareness means fewer questions and misunderstandings as Levi grows up. Support reminds families that they are not alone. And research gives us hope for meaningful change within our lifetime.”
Mike serves as a patient advocate on the Nevus Outreach Research Committee, a role that reflects how deeply invested his family is in the future of the community.
“Any opportunity to help push Nevus Outreach forward, we’re all in,” he said. “This is Levi. This is our family.”
A Message for the Community
As Mike looks ahead to race day, he hopes his journey sends a message to families and children in the CMN and NCM community.
“Lean into challenges,” he said. “But just as importantly, lean into the people around you.”
For Mike, the marathon isn’t about proving anything as a runner. It’s about showing up — for Levi, for his family, and for a community that has given them so much.
“None of us are doing this alone,” he said. “Whether it’s raising a child with CMN or running a marathon, we’re stronger together.”
As Mike continues his training toward Boston, every mile represents more than physical endurance. It represents hope, resilience, and the power of community — and a father running with his whole heart for his son.
Support Mike’s Miles for Hope
You can be part of Mike’s journey to the Boston Marathon and help advance awareness, support, and research for individuals and families impacted by CMN and NCM.
Support Mike’s Miles for Hope campaign by donating here:
💡 Want to connect with other CMN families, find trusted resources, or support research? Visit Nevus Outreach to learn more, join our community, share your story, or make a gift today.
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