Stroke Survivor to Cross Boston Waterfront 5K Finish Line One Year After Emergency

Jack & Michelle Hynes and “Team Jack” to Highlight Inspirational Comeback on June

BOSTON – June 6, 2025 – The Boston Waterfront 5K, a signature fundraising event supporting The McCourt Foundation, returns Sunday, June 15. Among the thousands of participants expected to run, walk, and celebrate by the harbor, one runner is preparing for an especially powerful finish.

“Team Jack,” a group of over 60 friends and family members, will take on the scenic 5K course to honor Jack Hynes, a Boston police officer who suffered a stroke after finishing last year’s race. Paralyzed on his left side and initially confined to a wheelchair, Jack has spent the past year working tirelessly through physical and occupational therapy.

“We didn’t know if Jack would ever walk again,” said his wife, Michelle Hynes. “Seeing him go from a hospital bed to walking this race, that’s something I’ll never take for granted.”

On Father’s Day, Jack will return to the race and walk the final 100 yards alongside Michelle and their 20-year-old daughter, Brennah, for a symbolic and emotional moment marking his recovery journey.

“To have Jack crossing that finish line on Father’s Day, surrounded by people who love him – it’s going to be an unforgettable moment,” said Michelle. “This day means so much to us. After all we’ve been through, this race gave us a reason to hope and something to work toward. We made a promise to come back, and its proof that healing is possible, even when the journey is long.”

Held at a new start and finish location at the Leader Bank Pavilion, the Boston Waterfront 5K welcomes participants of all ages and abilities to enjoy a scenic course featuring over a mile of waterfront views. Proceeds support The McCourt Foundation’s mission to cure neurological diseases and empower communities to build a healthier world.

“Jack and his family are an inspiration, not only to those affected by stroke, but the many others facing their own health crisis,” said Brian McCourt, President and Chairman of the Board at The McCourt Foundation. “Their determination embodies the spirit of this event, and why we do what we do.”

Following the race, participants can enjoy live music, refreshments, and family-friendly festivities along the waterfront. Team Jack will be easy to spot in bright orange shirts featuring a black falcon – a nod to Jack’s 30 years of service and an inside joke among friends.

Whether you’re a first-time runner, returning participant, or walking for someone you love, the Boston Waterfront 5K offers a chance to make meaningful strides for health and hope – and to witness what resilience looks like in real life.

To make a donation to Team Jack, supporting The McCourt Foundation’s mission, please visit their team page: https://fundraisers.hakuapp.com/teams/team-jack-5

For more information, or to register, please visit www.mccourtfoundation.org.