Every year, the Joe Andruzzi Foundation (JAF) is so honored to have the support of our Team JAF runners who train, fundraise, and spread awareness of our mission. JAF is also grateful for the corporate supporters who stand behind this team of runners. Many may not know that a special group of friends has banded together in fundraising the past few years to support JAF and the Boston Marathon® that was so beloved by their dear, late friend – John ‘T’ Magraw. The Boston T Party, as they call themselves, is more than just a group of Marathon fans—they are a community bound by friendship, tradition, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
Their annual donations to the Joe Andruzzi Foundation’s Boston Marathon® team are more than just contributions; they are a heartfelt tribute to their late friend, John T. Magraw. While ‘T’ (as he was known) did not battle cancer, he had a deep love for the Boston Marathon. Whether as a spectator cheering from the sidelines or as an enthusiastic supporter of the runners, he found joy in the spirit of the race. When his friends sought a way to honor his memory, they found a perfect match in JAF’s mission—helping cancer patients and their families navigate financial burdens while they focus on their health.
For the Boston T Party, giving to JAF isn’t just about donating—it’s about keeping John’s passion alive and ensuring his impact continues. John’s community of friends and family recalls his love of life, his ability to have a good time, and his undeniable Boston pride:
“He LOVED Marathon Monday. Called it his favorite day. Loved the Red Sox and Pats and was affected like the rest of us in 2013. Since that was one of JAF’s saddest days (they were right behind Martin Richard), and John was always about being happy, the JAF Marathon team was the obvious choice,” shared friend Jeff Kenney.
“John loved to bring people together, and whatever he was doing… He used to bring the most eclectic group of people together to do something, which is why he loved Marathon Monday. The whole city came together, and everyone was upbeat and happy and looking for a good time. It just has a special energy to the day that he found so infectious,” added close friend Nicole Abril.
John’s brother, David Magraw, shared, “John loved others and was loved in return by many. For example, he was in seven weddings within a single year. Not just ‘invited’, but actually in the wedding parties themselves (and was even the bridesman once, for his friend Ashley). He was someone special who others wanted to be around.”
Through their generosity, the Boston T Party is making a tangible impact on the lives of cancer patients and their families. Their contributions help cover critical living expenses—keeping food on the table, the lights on, and transportation available for treatments. By supporting JAF’s marathon team, they’re honoring John’s love for the Boston Marathon® and ensuring that families facing a cancer diagnosis don’t have to battle alone.
The Joe Andruzzi Foundation is grateful for the unwavering support of the Boston T Party. Their generosity reminds us all that giving in honor of a loved one is a powerful way to carry forward their spirit, passions, and kindness.
“The Foundation is blessed to have this generous group of friends come together and celebrate John by supporting our Boston Marathon® runners,” said Joe Andruzzi, Co-Founder and Chief Engagement Officer. “Good people doing good work in the name of a great friend.”
As Boston Marathon® Day approaches once again, JAF celebrates and acknowledges this incredible group and their continued dedication to making a difference—one step, one mile, and one heartfelt tribute at a time. We know ‘T’ is looking on and smiling upon everyone!