I moved to Boston two years ago to experience the four seasons, apply to graduate school, and meet new people. Last year I completed my first half marathon, and decided this year, after turning 30, that I wanted to challenge myself to run a full marathon. I am honored to be one of the five runners representing The Second Step. The families motivate and inspire me to work hard for them, and the Boston marathon gives me the opportunity to do something that I love while raising awareness for TSS and this very important cause.

I grew up in San Francisco where my family and I participated in many of the exciting and creative local races. The “Bay to Breakers” is a great example of us coming together every year to run while having a blast. I’ve truly enjoyed running throughout my life. It’s been the best way to get to know places I’ve lived and traveled to.

Knowing that running the Boston marathon can help these families lead safer, healthier lives encourages me to stay strong and focused through training each day!



I was born and raised in Acton, Massachussetts and have spent my entire life living and working in Eastern Massachusetts. I currently live in Sudbury with my wife, Heather, my daughter, Mikayla, and our two cats.

I began running in 1993 when I began to notice that I was slowly getting further and further out of shape. I can fondly remember struggling through the early days, wondering how a mile could possibly be that long. I was fortunate to have a great support system and I quickly learned the tricks to make running enjoyable. My belief is that it is my responsibility to pass along my love of the sport to others, much like it was taught to me. Over the years, I have informally assisted many coworkers and friends, turning couch potatoes into runners.

In the past, I have run the Boston Marathon 3 times with a personal best of 3 hours and 22 minutes in 2000. Most recently, I ran the Bay State Marathon, in Lowell, this past October in 3 hours and 44 minutes.

I am looking forward to helping raise money to support TSS and thank the entire TSS team for the opportunity to work with them in this small way to help stop domestic violence. Check out my webpage at www.mikerunsboston.typepad.com



Hi! My name is Natalie DeAngelo and I'm thrilled to a part of the 2008 TSS Marathon Team. I'm 26 years old and originally from Jamestown, NY. I made the exciting trek to Boston over 5 years ago and couldn't be happier. I love doing anything active, being outdoors, and traveling.

I've been an avid recreational runner for over 9 years, but running a marathon has always been on the top of my "100 Things to Do in This Lifetime" list. After several friends finished marathons all over the world, I realized that NOW was the time for me to take on the challenge. It was also extremely important to me that I run for a good cause.

When I met the staff at The Second Step, it was their passion for supporting survivors of domestic violence that really made an impact. I decided to run for TSS because of this passion and the immeasurable quality of care and support they give to DV survivors everyday. I truly look forward to spreading the word about The Second Step, accomplishing a lifelong goal, and raising as much money as possible for this amazing cause! Check out my blog at helpicerun.blogspot.com.



My name is Jill Pugach and I was born in Boston and grew up in Wellesley right on the famous 26.2 mile route. After attending Hamilton College in upstate New York, I knew it was time to come back home to Boston where I could cheer on my Red Sox in peace! Although I currently reside in Newton (slightly off the marathon path) and work in Market Research, my love for that famous April Monday has not faded.

While I competed as a varsity swimmer at Hamilton, I was hooked on running throughout my four years in upstate New York. Somehow, a 23rd year of handing out oranges and water at the halfway mark did not sound nearly as satisfying as being a part of the race itself. Even though I’m sure I'll never look at Route 16 the same way again, I couldn't be more excited to be a part of Team TSS and the Boston Marathon!



My name is Brandan Strickland and I am excited to be part of this year’s TSS Marathon Team. This will be my first Boston Marathon and, well, my first marathon ever.

When asked to rate myself on a 4.0 scale in terms of running ability, I would rank myself as a solid 2.25. Not showin’ off, and not falling behind either; right in the meaty part of the curve.

What is the most exciting thing about running the marathon this year? I believe there is nothing like taking on a great challenge in order to support an even greater cause which, in this case, is The Second Step. Beyond that, I also take pleasure in all of the support from my family, friends and coworkers.

What do I do when I’m not running for Team TSS? I enjoys hitting the ski slopes, reading anything and everything, taking to the great outdoors, and creating the perfect running playlist. I am also a diehard Chicago Cubs and Wisconsin Badgers fan.

All in all, I feel honored to be part of Team TSS and hopes that my 2008 Boston Marathon run will raise awareness and donations to end domestic violence.