Winchester Runner Reacts One Month After Marathon Bombing

Since the Boston Marathon bombings on April 15, Winchester resident Karina Chmielewski said the month that followed has been "a physical and emotional rollercoaster."

Chmielewski, who was about a half-mile away from the finish line at the marathon when the explosions went off, said she will never forget what transpired that afternoon.

"The last 30 days have been a physical and emotional rollercoster," she said. "What happened on April 15 forever changed my life, my family's and friends'. I am taking a break from running due to an injury, but as soon as I recover I will resume training for Boston Marathon 2014."

Following the marathon, Chmielewski was expected to participate in a Canadian Ironman event, but had to drop out due to an injury.

"After the marathon I was supposed to start training for Ironman Mt. Tremblant scheduled for Aug. 18 in Quebec, Canada," she explained. "Due to the injury and inablility to train hard I had to pull out of the event. I've resumed swimming with my Masters Swim team at the Woburn (YMCA), and will start open water training at Walden Pond starting next week.  

"Swimming keeps me sane when I can't run," she said with a smile.

According to Chmielewski, Family Reach Foundation, the charity she ran for this year, has already offered her a spot on the 2014 team.

During the days after the marathon bombings, Chmielewski said she had help from her loved ones. 

"I was very fortunate and did not need any counseling," she said. "My family and friends have been amazing in supporting me."

As for Wednesday, Chmielewski said, "I will spend the day at work, then, after work, have a Swizzles ice cream party with my kids, Nella, 7, Jakob, 3, and (my) husband Tom as a 'thank you' for all their unconditional support and love over the last few weeks."