BCRF Runner Marks End of Treatment by Raising More than $21,000 for Research

Madeline McCloughan, a runner on BCRF’s first Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon team, galvanized friends and family to make a big impact

It was not easy for Madeline McCloughan, 30, to get back to the demands of marathon training after finishing treatment for triple-negative breast cancer at the end of 2020. After initially building up her strength, she had to navigate a stubborn early training plateau, learn to adapt to her slower pace, and adjust to running with breast implants post-mastectomy.

In a triumphant moment this past weekend, she crossed the finish line of the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, with friends and family running the race in her honor and cheering from the sidelines.

“I’ve always loved running, and I was glad I got to return my focus to physically feeling good,” she said. “Running is an incredible gift. I get to feel strong and powerful.”

Madeline was a member of BCRF’s first Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon team and raised an incredible $21,716 for breast cancer research. She also recruited several family members and friends, including a fellow breast cancer survivor who supported her through treatment, to also join the team to run the marathon or 10-mile race, train over the course of several months, and raise funds for BCRF.

“I was overwhelmed by the strength and love my community gave me as I was diagnosed and going through treatment, so I was not surprised at how many of them jumped at the chance to do this with me too,” Madeline said. “I’m so incredibly lucky to have the family and friends that I do, and I’m incredibly grateful for their participation.”

Reflecting on the experience being part of Team BCRF, Madeline said she felt a deep appreciation for the research that made her treatments possible—and a drive to give back to other people impacted by the disease.

“I believe that we all have a purpose and choices in life, and my path brought me here. I chose to make a positive impact out of a tough situation,” she said. “I had access to a great care team and to have a very strong support system at home.  A lot of women aren’t as lucky, so it is important for me to do what I can to prevent other women from having to go through what I went through.”

BCRF thanks each of our runners in the Twin Cities for raising more than $52,000 that will fund more than 1,040 hours of lifesaving research.