My name is Merrily Welch. I am honored to be running the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon with the Myocarditis Foundation to raise awareness and support research for Myocarditis.

I can honestly say I had limited knowledge of Myocarditis until October 2014 when my husband, my soul mate, Patrick was diagnosed with Giant Cell Myocarditis. He had become extremely ill after coming home from a business trip. The cold/flu we thought he had, developed into something more, so much more.  He was hospitalized for months, underwent multiple surgeries,treatments and doctor/cardiologist office visits following his initial event.

The foundation was paramount when it came to connecting and collaborating with Patrick’s physicians and specialists.  With the support, research, connections and education from the Myocarditis foundation we began a life long journey of doing all we could to learn more, live more and give more.   Patrick lived life to its fullest for another 10 beautiful years.  He passed away a year ago this past February.  Patrick gave his heart and soul to his family, his friends and to his passions, including the foundation.  He was a loving husband, a natural, easy going, involved, loving dad and a ride or die friend, we all dream of having.

For these reasons and so many more I ask you to support me in this year’s NYC Marathon on November 1st, 2026 to raise donations for the Myocarditis Foundation.  Let’s not miss a beat, help me keep the race for awareness, research and knowledge going strong.  There are many hearts and families we can support together with your contributions, and kindness.  Anyone that knows me, knows I love my family, my  friends, running, and a good challenge. Challenge accepted.

Many thanks to the Foundation for selecting me to be a part of something special, memorable and so very important. I’ll see you at the finish line.