Lessons we must never forget from the Boston Marathon Bombing Nine Line News Team April 14, 2021 Nine Line News 1,768 When Marc Fucarile woke up on April 15th eight years ago, he never could have imagined it was nearly his last day on earth. Marc was standing on Boylston Street when the second of two pressure cooker bombs planted at the Boston Marathon exploded, spitting out a terrifying hail of ball-bearing type metallic beads and small carpenter nails. Marc lost his right leg in the blast, and nearly his left. He suffered severe burns and shrapnel wounds. He was one of over a dozen civilians who lost limbs that day, either at the scene or by surgical amputation later. But he was alive. Three others perished. In all, the pressure cooker bombs set by two Islamist brothers injured over 260 people. But Marc has persevered. In an interview with Boston 25 News, he said “My life really started over (that day).” “You can stay in one spot and focus on the past,” Marc said. “You can never change the past, no matter how much you focus on it. So, I strongly believe you chose to live in the moment you are in. Right now. At this minute. And that’s the only thing you can control.” Since that day in 2013, as Marc worked on regaining his strength and his health, and devoted his time to helping others who are mobile challenged. He has volunteered at summer camps, and competed in the Boston Marathon on his hand bike. Last year, the Marathon was cancelled because of the pandemic. Marc offered his perspective on this new challenge we all face, no matter our circumstances. “Everybody just be patient, I know it’s hard. Everybody’s struggling, everybody’s afraid, but things do get better. You have to focus at that light at the end of the tunnel.” And indeed, the Boston Athletic Association has announced that if road races are allowed to take place as part of the Massachusetts reopening plan, the 125th Boston Marathon will be held this fall, on Monday, October 11, 2021. Marc’s story of survival, as well as those of others, continue to inspire us. The story of Jeff Bauman, who lost both legs in the blast was chronicled in the film “Stronger.” But we must not forget all of those who gave aid at the most critical time. When the bombs exploded, rescue workers and medical personnel, who were on hand as usual for the marathon, immediately began to give aid to the hundreds of victims. Additional police, fire, and medical units were dispatched, including from surrounding cities as well as private ambulances from all over the state. Victims were treated at 27 local hospitals. Last year, survivors created a special video to express their gratitude to the first responders and their “healthcare heroes.” On the second anniversary of the Boston Marathon Bombings, Mayor Marty Walsh established April 15 as an official and permanent holiday called “One Boston Day,” dedicated to conducting random acts of kindness and helping others out. It is a holiday we would all do well to observe — and not just once a year.
