After an unexpected hiatus, McKenna is back for another year with Team Samaritans in the Falmouth Road Race—and her return means more than just crossing a finish line. With deep compassion and unshakable resilience, she’s taking each step forward in honor of her dad, for those still struggling, and for her own healing.
From Setback to Start Line
“Surprise! It’s kidney disease.” That’s not exactly how McKenna expected to end last year’s training season. After being sidelined due to a series of medical issues and an unexpected diagnosis, she had to step back from running altogether for a bit.
“I was unfortunately unable to participate in the race last year,” she says. “This setback only made my desire to run for Team Samaritans this year even stronger.”
For McKenna, the pull to return isn’t just about running again—it’s about meaningfully showing up for a cause that has shaped her life.
Running for Her Dad—and Herself
McKenna’s commitment to suicide prevention began with a devastating loss: her father died by suicide when she was twelve.
“He was more than a father to me—he was my best friend,” she shares. “Losing a loved one to suicide creates a distinct duality of grief. We endure the sadness of their death and the gaping hole it leaves. But there’s also this deep sorrow around the circumstances of their death—knowing they were experiencing profound pain and suffering.”
That grief, along with her own lived experience with mental health challenges, continues to fuel her advocacy.
“I am so thankful that organizations like The Samaritans do what they do,” she says.
More Than a Race: A Life of Advocacy
Running with Team Samaritans is just one part of McKenna’s dedication to suicide prevention. As a Registered Nurse working for a social service nonprofit, she’s on the front lines every day, supporting individuals with complex mental health needs.
“Whether it’s helping clients access services, advocating for their care, or just offering a listening ear, I see firsthand how crucial support and understanding are,” she explains. “These daily interactions reaffirm my dedication to the cause.”
This year, McKenna is also on track to become a Certified Grief Counselor.
“My hope is that, with my own personal journey through loss and grief, I can offer guidance to others navigating similar difficulties,” she says. “It’s a way to carry the impact of my dad’s life forward and to help others feel less alone.”
Training with Intention, Not Perfection
After time away from running, McKenna’s approach to training this year feels entirely different.
“I’m prioritizing listening to my body above all else,” she says. “Training, for me, is less about hitting specific milestones and more about honoring when I need to slow down, rest, and heal.”
One of her biggest mindset shifts? Letting go of pressure and leaning into gratitude.
“By shifting from ‘I have to run’ to ‘I get to run,’ I feel so much more appreciation for my body and what it can do,” she says. “Running always feels easier and freer when I’m not driven by fear of not being good enough.”
She’s also taking a new approach to fundraising—bringing creativity and joy into the process.
“I’ve started using more incentive-driven ideas so my campaign feels more engaging,” she says.
Looking Ahead to Race Day
So what is McKenna most excited for this year?
“Actually running the race!” she laughs. “In all seriousness, I’m just thankful to have a second chance at doing what I wasn’t able to last year.”
But beyond the finish line, it’s about connection.
“I’m eager to meet and talk with other members of Team Samaritans,” she says. “It’s going to be truly special to run with people who understand the grief of losing someone to suicide and who are just as passionate about preventing future loss.”
That sense of community—of shared purpose and strength—is what makes the race so meaningful.
“Knowing that our efforts will directly support the Samaritans’ work in strengthening mental health awareness and access to support will make crossing that finish line even more rewarding.”
Every Step Is for Something Bigger
McKenna’s story is one of strength, vulnerability, and heart. She’s not just returning to the race—she’s reclaiming it, making each mile a tribute to her dad, a testament to her own healing, and a call for greater compassion and care for those who are struggling. And she hopes her journey inspires others to take their own steps—whether that’s through running, reaching out, or simply holding space for someone in pain.
If you’d like to support McKenna in her fundraising efforts, please visit her fundraising page. Every contribution brings us one step closer to preventing suicide and saving lives.
Check out the full #TeamSamaritans at https://capesamaritans.org/falmouth-road-race/.