Hank Donigan Will Run 570th Marathon in Washington
The 71-year-old athlete prepares to complete his 570th marathon on October 25, 2026, to benefit veterans.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Running
Hank Donigan, a 71-year-old marathoner, will mark his 570th race at the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington on October 25, 2026. Donigan continues a weekly running schedule despite a 100% disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Why it matters
Donigan uses his marathon-a-week schedule to raise funds for Semper Fi and America's Fund, supporting wounded service members and their families. His participation serves as a personal strategy to manage significant physical and mental health challenges following a brain tumor diagnosis.
Donigan has raised over $121,000 for Semper Fi and America's Fund through his ongoing marathon participation. It remains unknown how his physical health will respond to the event after he previously completed a marathon with a partially collapsed lung.
The players
Hank Donigan
A 71-year-old marathon runner who raises funds for veterans after managing a brain tumor and surgery.
Semper Fi and America's Fund
A nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families.
Department of Veterans Affairs
The federal agency responsible for providing benefits and healthcare services to military veterans.
The details
Donigan maintains a rigorous training regimen of one marathon every week to support his charitable mission for wounded veterans. Following a 2022 brain tumor diagnosis and subsequent surgery in 2023, he continues to adapt his physical activity to address ongoing recovery and health limitations. This sustained effort highlights how he utilizes endurance sports to navigate personal health obstacles.
Timeline
2003: Semper Fi and America's Fund began.
2013: Donigan began running for Semper Fi and America's Fund.
September 2022: Donigan was diagnosed with a brain tumor.
July 2023: Donigan underwent brain surgery.
October 25, 2026: Donigan will run his 570th marathon.
Health Landscape
This effort highlights the role of sustained physical activity in managing post-surgical recovery and long-term health challenges. It operates within the context of support programs like Semper Fi and America's Fund, which provide critical assistance to veterans facing complex recovery needs.
Readers managing chronic health conditions should discuss any plans for high-intensity endurance training with a physician to ensure the activity is safe for their specific recovery status. It is worth evaluating how personal physical goals can support mental well-being when coordinated with your healthcare team.
The takeaway
Maintaining regular physical activity can be a powerful tool for managing mental and physical health even after major surgery. Always clear high-impact exercise plans with your primary physician to ensure your routine remains safe for your unique health history.
Further reading
Learn more about local endurance sports at Running.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Military.
