Nicole Rand, 38
Wellesley
I was pulled off the course at mile 25.5 There was no way to wrap your brain around it, especially after running that far. It’s supposed to be a moment of celebration, but it’s a moment of tragedy. It’s been difficult. Whether you were running or a spectator, there is not a word for the emotions that I’m having or anyone else is having. It’s sadness, anger, disappointment, confusion. You just don’t how to feel. We never thought this would happen in our city. But it did. And now we have to go on from here.
—As told to Boston magazine. Photo by Scott M. Lacey