Family of Marathon bombing victim spreading message of peace

BOSTON — Martin Richard was only eight years old when he lost his life by the Boston Marathon finish line in April 2013.

In the five years since Martin's death, his parents started a foundation in his name so their son could live on through a message of peace.

On One Boston Day, the Richard family brought their community together to remember Martin and the other victims of the bombings while healing through their pain.

"His message is so strong, it's stronger than the hate of that day," said Mayor Marty Walsh. "His message is just the beginning to get out there more and more and more."

Martin's message, while simple, remains powerful and continues to inspire countless acts of kindness.

The Martin Richard Foundation was created by his parents to help spread that message.

One Boston Day, a tradition that marks the anniversary of the bombings by focusing on the generosity, strength and kindness that followed the violence.

"It’s a difficult day but it’s also a day to remember how supportive the community has been ad how supportive they continue to be in all of the days since then and hopefully for a long time to come,” said Erin O'Brien, Martin Richard's aunt.

Martin's spirit lives on through small acts of kindness, from creating peace banners to reusable grocery bags, his message continues to make an impact.

"[The banners] will be installed on Town Field next weekend on Earth Day, it will be a 70-foot installation, so we have a lot more flags that we need to make," said Ally Brisbin, of Dorchester.

Tomorrow, more than one hundred runners will be taking on the Boston Marathon in support of the Martin Richard Foundation.

"You have to give the Richard family credit for taking possibly  the worst thing that can possibly happen to you as a parent and as a family and try to turn it into something positive and significant and that’s exactly what they’ve done," said Governor Charlie Baker.

Cox Media Group