Double arm amputee running Boston marathon in honor of sick teen

By: Samantha Fenlon

Email: news@abc6.com

Twitter: @ABC6

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – There was a very special visit at Hasbro Children’s Hospital Friday afternoon for 12-year-old Anna Kitada.

Just three days ahead of the 121st Boston Marathon, the North Smithfield teen battling bone cancer got a chance to meet Hector Picard, a double arm amputee who is running the historic route in her honor.

"Her smile is going to carry me the entire 26.2 miles," said marathon runner Hector Picard.

That smile will carry him because Picard will be running with Anna’s picture around his neck.

When we asked about Picard running with her picture around her neck, Anna Kitada joked saying it’s cool, but a little weird too.

Anna had her leg amputated at the age of nine. She says meeting Picard and hearing what he’s been able to accomplish is a major inspiration as she continues her fight her battle against cancer.

"I’m trying to work back to getting running again and because Hector is doing it, I know that I can do it," said Kitada.

Picard is the first ever double arm amputee to finish an Iron Man.

He told ABC6 News he likes to dedicate each major competition he takes part in to a kid in need. Last year… he gave away 25 medals.

"I call it racing for two champions," said Picard. "If I can overcome this I want them to feel like they can do the same."

Picard is running the marathon for One Mission; a local pediatric cancer charity that helps kids and their families get through cancer treatment.

ABC6 News will be at the marathon on Monday and there as Picard finishes the route with Anna’s picture around his neck.

Come Tuesday, he’ll be hand delivering the medal to Anna at Hasbro Children’s Hospital.

©WLNE-TV / ABC6 2017