Fitness Together Burlington Owner Completes Boston Marathon and Police Unity Tour to Support Meaningful Causes

Fitness Together Burlington owner Brendan Stapleton combined endurance and service this spring by completing his eighth Boston Marathon and participating in the 2026 Police Unity Tour. Through these efforts, he helped raise awareness and funding for cancer research and the families of fallen law enforcement officers while demonstrating the power of commitment, community, and purpose.

Fitness Together Burlington owner Brendan Stapleton completed the 2026 Boston Marathon and Police Unity Tour to support cancer research, honor loved ones, and help preserve the legacies of fallen law enforcement officers.

This spring was about much more than crossing finish lines.

For Fitness Together Burlington owner Brendan Stapleton, two endurance events—the 2026 Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America and the 2026 Police Unity Tour—represented opportunities to honor loved ones, support meaningful causes, and give back to communities that have made a lasting impact on his life.

Why Did Brendan Run the 2026 Boston Marathon?

In April, Stapleton completed his eighth Boston Marathon and his 30th marathon overall as a member of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team.

With the support of clients, friends, family members, and community supporters, he raised nearly $21,000 for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and The Jimmy Fund.

The effort was deeply personal.

Stapleton ran in memory of his late stepfather, Kevin "Sharkey" Murphy, who passed away following a battle with bone cancer, and his friend Don Tocci, who lost his battle with cancer more than two years ago.

He also ran in honor of his father-in-law, Lary Lovett, who is currently fighting Stage 4 cancer, and family friend Grace, who recently celebrated becoming cancer-free.

"Cancer has touched so many people I care about," said Stapleton. "The opportunity to run Boston while supporting Dana-Farber's mission made every training run and every mile on race day meaningful."

Funds raised through the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge help support cancer research, innovative treatments, and compassionate patient care for patients and families throughout New England and beyond.

What Is the Police Unity Tour?

Just weeks after completing the Boston Marathon, Stapleton participated in the 2026 Police Unity Tour.

The multi-day cycling event brings together law enforcement officers and supporters from across the country to honor officers who have died in the line of duty while raising funds for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

Collectively, participants in this year's ride helped raise nearly $2.5 million to support memorial programs, survivor resources, and the preservation of the stories of fallen officers.

"The Unity Tour is one of the most moving experiences I've ever been part of," said Stapleton. "You see firsthand the strength of the law enforcement community and the importance of preserving the stories and legacies of those who made the ultimate sacrifice."

How Do Endurance Events Reflect the Mission of Fitness Together Burlington?

While the Boston Marathon and Police Unity Tour are very different events, they share a common theme: commitment.

At Fitness Together Burlington, we help people achieve goals that often feel out of reach when they first begin. Whether someone wants to lose weight, build strength, improve their health, complete their first 5K, or simply move without pain, success comes from showing up consistently and trusting the process.

Those same principles apply to marathon training, long-distance cycling, and community service.

Over the years, Stapleton has worked with hundreds of clients throughout Burlington and the surrounding communities, helping them build confidence, improve their health, and accomplish goals they once thought were impossible.

Why Does Community Support Matter?

Neither of these efforts would have been possible without the support of an incredible community.

From donations and encouragement to volunteering and sharing fundraising campaigns, every contribution helped make a difference.

"Whether it's running 26.2 miles, cycling hundreds of miles, or helping a client take their first step toward better health, the common thread is commitment," said Stapleton. "None of us accomplish great things alone. I'm grateful to everyone who donated, supported, and encouraged these efforts along the way."

Bottom Line

The 2026 Boston Marathon and Police Unity Tour were opportunities to support causes that matter, honor loved ones, and give back to communities that make a difference every day.

Fitness Together Burlington is proud to thank everyone who supported these efforts and helped contribute to cancer research, patient care, and the preservation of the legacies of fallen law enforcement officers.

Together, small actions can create a lasting impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did Brendan Stapleton raise for Dana-Farber?

Brendan Stapleton raised nearly $21,000 through the 2026 Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge.

How many Boston Marathons has Brendan Stapleton completed?

The 2026 Boston Marathon was Brendan Stapleton's eighth Boston Marathon and his 30th marathon overall.

What is the Police Unity Tour?

The Police Unity Tour is a multi-day cycling event that honors fallen law enforcement officers and supports the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

How much was raised through the 2026 Police Unity Tour?

Participants collectively helped raise nearly $2.5 million through the 2026 Police Unity Tour.

Where is Fitness Together Burlington located?

Fitness Together Burlington is located at 212 Cambridge Street in Burlington, Massachusetts.