Fall River Teen Battling Leukemia Receives Emotional Boston Marathon Gift

Just when you thought Wesley “Wes” Araujo’s story couldn’t get any more inspiring, it somehow climbed another level. This time, coming full circle in a moment that left his family and school community emotional.

On the morning of Wednesday, April 22, Wesley's father, Craig Araujo, received a call from Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School in Fall River saying someone had something special for his son. After everything Wes had already accomplished while battling leukemia at Boston Children’s Hospital, it was hard to imagine what could top it.

However, when he arrived at the school, what unfolded was a moment no one in the room will ever forget. Waiting for Wes was Diman’s Director of Guidance, Lin Griffin, who was fresh off running the Boston Marathon just days earlier.

A Medal With Meaning

Griffin had been closely following Wes’ journey, watching as the 15-year-old Fall River teen turned a hospital hallway into his own 26.2-mile marathon course. Inspired by his determination, she decided to do something powerful. After completing the Boston Marathon herself, Griffin chose to give Wes her official marathon medal.

On top of the medal, Diman's Athletic Trainer Stephanie Hart also gifted him one of the coveted Boston Marathon jackets, making sure he felt every bit like the marathoner he proved himself to be. For Wes, who completed 552 laps inside the hospital while undergoing treatment, it was more than a gift. It was recognition.

A Community That Keeps Showing Up

For Wes and his family, moments like this have become a reminder of just how strong the SouthCoast community really is. From hospital staff cheering him on during his marathon to neighbors, friends, and now school leaders stepping up in meaningful ways, the support has been constant.

“The community support has been immense, I couldn’t even imagine going through this alone,” his mom Michelle Araujo said. “Every ounce helps him as he continues to fight.”

READ MORE: Fall River Teen Fighting Cancer Finishes Marathon Inside Boston Children’s Hospital

That kind of backing has literally fueled Wes every step of the way.

Not One, But Two Marathons

As if completing a marathon inside a hospital while battling leukemia wasn’t enough, Wes didn’t stop there. During his time at Boston Children’s, he also completed the equivalent of the Tokyo Marathon. In just four days, he logged another 26.2 miles, averaging about seven miles a day while continuing treatment.

Let that sink in for a second. Two marathons in a hospital, all while fighting cancer.

The Perfect Match of Effort and Heart

Lin Griffin’s gesture wasn’t just thoughtful, it felt like the perfect match. One marathoner recognizing another, each with their own journey, but both built on determination. Griffin, who brings a background in counseling, psychology, and nursing, understood the deeper meaning behind Wes’ fight and wanted to honor it in a way he’d never forget.

As for Wes, who continues to push forward with a positive mindset and unwavering drive, it’s just another reminder that people are rooting for him every step of the way.

It’s clear that Wes isn’t just running marathons, he’s inspiring others to believe in something bigger.