For Greta Freking and Eddy Fish, members of the Corey C. Griffin Foundation’s (CCGF) Emerging Leaders Council (ELC), the road to the Boston Marathon is more than a physical journey — it is a deeply personal commitment to the children and families at the heart of the Foundation’s mission.
Both Greta and Eddy are running the iconic race this year, each bringing a sense of purpose, discipline, and gratitude as they represent and fundraise for Team CCGF.
Greta, a cardiac ICU nurse at Boston Children’s Hospital, describes her training as both “rewarding and humbling.” Though she has seen meaningful gains in her endurance, her journey has not been without setbacks. A foot injury sidelined her for much of February, forcing her to adjust expectations and prioritize healing.
“This process has really taught me the importance of slowing down and listening to my body,” she says. Greta now builds her routine around long-run days, while incorporating strength and cross-training to stay healthy and prevent further injury.
Through every challenge, she finds motivation in the very children she serves. “As a nurse at Boston Children’s Hospital, I see firsthand the resilience and strength of our patients — those little fighters inspire me every day.” Greta also feels uplifted by the ELC and CCGF communities, whose constant support has carried her mile after mile.
One of her favorite rituals is running on Saturdays along the Boston Marathon course — a path filled with energy, determination, and community. “It reminds me why I signed up for this journey,” she shares. Running through Boston gives her a sense of connection to the city she calls home.
The experience of running as part of Team CCGF and alongside fellow ELC members adds another layer of significance. “It feels incredibly special. The support and camaraderie within the team is powerful — it makes the whole experience so much more meaningful.”
Among her most treasured CCGF memories is first attending Corey’s Kids Christmas, where she witnessed the joy of children receiving gifts and celebrating the season. “It was a heartfelt reminder of the impact we’re able to make. You could truly feel the love and warmth in the room — it was a celebration of giving, hope, and community.”
Eddy Fish, a returning Team CCGF runner and dedicated ELC member, approached this year’s training with a greater sense of strategy. “Training this year has been much more efficient and methodical,” he explains. After completing his first marathon last year, he no longer faces the mental hurdle of unfamiliar distance. “Now, that mental barrier is gone.”
For Eddy, running is a return to a familiar mindset — one shaped by years of competitive sports. “Tapping back into the competitive spirit I had while playing sports growing up… training toward a specific day and goal has brought that feeling back.” Still, his deepest motivation is rooted in service. “Making a difference for Corey’s kids makes all the long runs and fundraising efforts worth it.”
Like Greta, Eddy finds rhythm in routine. His long run days begin with a simple breakfast and coffee before he sets out along his favorite route by the Charles River — a serene and familiar path that keeps him focused.
Reflecting on his bond with the ELC and Team CCGF, Eddy says, “Getting to share experiences and pick-up tips and tricks of the trade has been a real treat. The ELC is already a close-knit group, but I think this shared experience with the other runners is something very unique.”
One Foundation moment that stands out to Eddy is his visit to the Ron Burton Training Village — a CCGF partner program. “I truly believe it’s one of the most incredible places and organizations in the world. It’s impossible to leave there without feeling inspired and hopeful for the future.”
Eddy shares a heartfelt message of gratitude: “Just a major thank you to the CCGF team, Coach Furey, and everyone else who assists with the Marathon efforts. It takes a team and you would be hard pressed to find a better one!”
Greta adds, “Running the Boston Marathon is a dream, but doing it in support of a mission that’s close to my heart makes it even more meaningful. This one’s for the kids!”
From suburban Hopkinton to the finish line on Boylston Street, help us celebrate Greta and Eddy as they carry the spirit of CCGF with every stride — a force of love for Boston’s kids, and a testament to the power of community, purpose, and heart.
To learn more about Team CCGF, including how you can show your support, please visit our webpage.