We all know how iconic the Boston Marathon is as not only an athletic event, but an opportunity to celebrate and bolster our greater community, including opportunities for nonprofit organizations like BYSO.

Similar to many people that have grown up in or around Boston, Ellen Deng, a 2019 BYSO Alum, feels a personal connection to the race and the runners that tackle this annual challenge. Growing up along the marathon route, on the infamous Heartbreak Hill, she has watched the excitement unfold year after year, handing out oranges and water to those passing by and cheering them on during this tough part of the course. “It felt impossible–I’d watch these runners struggle up that hill, and I couldn’t imagine ever doing it myself. It just seemed too difficult.”

What started as an admiration for the dedication of others soon sparked a distant goal of her own: one day, completing the Boston Marathon. “The crowds, the energy, the resilience—it all made such an impression on me. I thought, maybe one day I’d like to run this marathon, but it seemed so far off. Then, the pandemic happened, and running became something a lot of people gravitated toward. My parents got into running, and I thought, if they can do it, maybe I can too.”

Soon enough, Ellen found a deep love for the sport. What started as a curiosity turned into a passion, and she quickly moved to distance running, completing several half marathons and a full marathon in May 2024. Now, the goal is clear: running the Boston Marathon, with a greater purpose of supporting an organization she already knows and loves, Boston Youth Symphony Orchestras.

“BYSO has been part of my life since I was about 10 or 11. It’s a perfect opportunity to mesh my passion for running with my commitment to an organization that has shaped me both as a person and as a musician.” Through her running journey, and now relating this to her BYSO experience, Ellen has found even deeper connections.

“Learning an instrument, practicing, and valuing hard work – those lessons are very much in line with what it takes to complete a marathon. It’s all about persistence, resilience, and the commitment to keep going when you don’t feel like it.”

Now, Ellen is excited to combine her passions and support an organization and community that means so much to her. “BYSO opened doors for me and gave me the opportunity to grow, both as a musician and as a person. I want to ensure that other kids get the same chance I had because BYSO changed my life. It’s a community that I’m still connected to as an alum, and it’s those lasting friendships and networks that really stand out and stick with me.”

We can’t wait to cheer Ellen on at the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 21! You can join us in supporting her journey by visiting www.BYSOweb.org/marathon to give or learn more.