We are honored to introduce you to Jessica and Brady Erickson — a dynamic mother-and-son duo proudly running the 129th Boston Marathon as members of Team CCGF, in support of the Corey C. Griffin Foundation (CCGF). Each Team CCGF runner, including Jessica and Brady, has committed to raising at least $10,000 to directly fund critical initiatives that support education and opportunity for Boston’s youth — affectionately known as “Corey’s Kids.”
In the spring of 2024, it was Brady’s connection with the Foundation that sparked the idea for this shared marathon journey with his mother. As a high school senior at Thayer Academy, Brady volunteered at St. John Paul II Catholic Academy (SJP), Lower Mills. His first experience with CCGF was during the school’s joyful Field Day celebration at the close of the academic year. The spirit of the event, and the happiness he witnessed among the students, inspired him to do more for the community.
For Brady, this marathon is about deepening his bond with his mom while creating lasting memories. “I’ve got the coolest mom on the planet,” he says. “When I first brought up running the marathon, my mom didn’t even think twice — she joined me right away and has been by my side through the entire experience. It’s going to be one of the greatest memories of my life.”
With race day approaching, Brady is feeling strong — increasing his mileage steadily, all while balancing hockey six days a week. He stays motivated with a positive attitude and a sense of humor. “Beating my mom to the finish line is what keeps me pushing myself out the door for each run,” he jokes. He enjoys training along the ocean, and considers post-run ice baths essential for keeping his body strong and injury-free.
Jessica, too, is deep into training — completing 20-mile runs through all types of New England weather. Though the first step is always daunting, she faces the challenge with resilience. “How am I going to run for that many hours?” she often wonders. She meets the mental challenge by breaking the course into smaller milestones, nourishing her body with healthy snacks, and staying inspired through music.
“I think about how blessed I am to be able to run this many miles and raise money for such a wonderful organization,” she shares. “I’m proud to be able to help make a difference in children’s futures.”
At home, Jessica and Brady share a love of cooking and enjoy preparing inspired meals as part of their marathon journey together. Training has brought them even closer. “We keep each other accountable so neither of us quits,” Brady says. “We’re also challenging each other to go farther and faster with every run.”
Jessica finds inspiration in her son’s presence and perspective. “I’ll be so excited to have him next to me at the starting line — and then he’ll be gone, haha. Brady has such a calming presence, and I know I’ll really need that on race day.”
And when moments of doubt creep in, Brady’s words are exactly what she needs. “I was getting nervous last week,” she recalls. “I was doubting myself and worried about being slow. He looked at me and said, ‘Mom, you are about to run the Boston Marathon. Your time doesn’t matter — just enjoy the race.’”
Monday, April 21 is going to be a meaningful day for the entire Erickson family. Along the marathon route, Jessica’s husband, Andy, and daughter, Amberly, will be cheering them on. Passing along the iconic Heartbreak Hill in Newton, daughter Kiley will be waiting in the enthusiastic Boston College crowd — lifting their spirits as they take on the final miles.
After crossing the finish line in Copley Square, the family will celebrate together — marking not just the miles completed, but the love and purpose that carried them forward.
Brady also shares a heartfelt shout-out to the SJP students he supported and mentored:
“I want to thank the kids at SJP for pushing me out of my comfort zone to try something new in order to help out.”
The Ericksons are running for Boston’s kids — and for the memories they’re creating together, step by step, with love.
To learn more about Team CCGF, including how you can show your support, please visit our webpage.