The Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation
"The moment the ambulance arrived at Brigham and Women's Hospital, following the chaos at the Boston Marathon finish line in 2013, I felt safety, love, and true compassion. No words will ever fully express my gratitude to the doctors and nurses who saved my life and legs." —Gillian Reny
On April 15, 2013, Gillian Reny stood near the finish line of the Boston Marathon with her parents, Steven and Audrey Epstein Reny, waiting for her sister Danielle to finish the race. Then two bombs went off and a beautiful day turned to heartbreaking tragedy for the Renys and all of Boston.
When first responders rushed the Renys to the Brigham, Audrey and Steven were treated for minor injuries while doctors and nurses worked heroically to save Gillian’s life. In the process, they also saved both of her legs—a miraculous outcome. Today, Gillian continues her journey toward recovery and serves as a global ambassador for the Stepping Strong center.
The mission of The Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation is to catalyze multidisciplinary collaborations that inspire groundbreaking innovation, effective prevention, and compassionate intervention to transform care for civilians and military heroes who endure traumatic injuries and events.
“We are so grateful to the tens of thousands of people from across the globe who are helping to turn the Boston Marathon tragedy into hope for trauma patients. Together we are fueling innovation, creating much needed awareness, and proving that the goodness of the human spirit prevails.” —Audrey Epstein Reny
There Are Many Ways to Help the Stepping Strong Center
Learn More
Learn more about the important work the Stepping Strong Center is doing to transform trauma care and recovery for civilians and military heroes who suffer from devastating traumatic injuries.
Make a Gift
Traumatic injury is the leading cause of death for people 46 years of age and younger. With your support, the Stepping Strong Center can pursue groundbreaking research, train the next generation of medical leaders, and save lives.
Start a Fundraiser
From virtual fundraisers to bake sales to social media campaigns, there are many fun and easy ways to raise funds for the Stepping Strong Center. Email bwhcommunity@partners.org to learn more.
Run for the Stepping Strong Center
Run the B.A.A. 5K, Boston Marathon, or run your own race on behalf of the Stepping Strong Center. For more information about our running program, please contact bwhteam@partners.org or 617-424-4235.