Two 12-Year-Old Fairhaven Heroes

The late Maya Angelou said, "I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people." There are two young men from Fairhaven who deserve the moniker of hero. Gabe Monroe and his buddy, Will Benoit, are 12-year-olds who recently ran the entire New Bedford Half Marathon, not to show themselves or others that they could, but to raise money for other kids who couldn't run because they are suffering from cancer. I had the pleasure of chatting with Brian Monroe, Gabe's dad, at the 20th anniversary celebration of M.O., L.I.F.E.

Last year, Will Benoit ran as an 11-year-old with his father, Russ Benoit. This year, Will and Gabe ran together for the first time, and at the suggestion of Will's mother, Brigette Benoit, the boys ran for the Jimmy Fund. They raised $1,500 in donations and pledges. (Contributions can be mailed to Will Benoit at 66 Massasoit Ave., Fairhaven, MA 02719) The Hastings Middle School duo have been running since they were kids, no pun intended, members of the Band of Brothers running club at the Wood Elementary School.

Their official time was 1:57:30!  In my opinion, these two boys are heroes because they are heroic in behavior, not because they finished a half marathon, and heroism is endurance for one step more! WBSM honors Will Benoit and Gabe Monroe!