Why We Run: Marie Abrahams
- Kat Libby
- Sep 18
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 22
This year we have a record-breaking number of runners working with us to raise funds for Fishermen Wellness. This is the first of three profiles sharing the stories of why they run, and why Maine fishermen and their wellness matters to them.
Marie Abrahams
Day job: Counselor, Business Owner
Race: Relay
Years running with MCFA: 3
Tell us more about you.
In my first career, I was an educator and camp director for outdoor adventure programs. When COVID hit, no one wanted to be in large groups, even outside. So the pandemic gave me a window to do a career soul search. Mental health has always been important to me, both personally and in supporting others. I decided to go back to school and enrolled at the University of Southern Maine, working towards a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Now I’m an LCPC, and I launched my solo practice in Brunswick a few months ago.
When did you start running?
I started running in middle school, with cross country – but I’m not competitive, I just love to run. In fact, I ran my first two marathons just in the last year! My dad was a runner. He passed away four years ago, so running is an important way that I stay connected with him. It’s also an excellent meditative and grounding activity.
Why are you running with MCFA?
I love Maine for its enduring ways of life and old school-ness. Fishermen are an important part of what makes Maine, Maine – which is why MCFA is so important. And, I love races as fundraisers. It brings more meaning to the experience. It’s sometimes hard to support other people, to help them directly and be part of their world – but doing something challenging and raising money is a great way to support others. Running the marathon with MCFA is a great way to connect with fishermen and the fishing world.
Why is mental health important?
To me, mental health has always been the only thing that matters. Coming to it as a career just made so much sense to me. What else matters if we don’t feel well? I feel very grounded in knowing the value of mental health, from a personal level. Through my work, I’m learning how to support other people who are seeking better mental health for themselves.
I have a lot of privilege even being able to have that worldview. I think about someone who hasn’t been able to prioritize their mental health, or whose career has brought them to a place where they aren’t well, like some fishermen. Everyone deserves to feel supported in the pursuit of being happy and well.
Comments