Step by Step: Keirsten Lyons Running to Remember Her Son, Sgt Jake Hess
Keirsten Lyons will be running the Marine Corps Marathon this October with wear blue’s Gold Star and Survivor Endurance Program in honor of her son, Marine Corps Sgt Jake Hess. Her journey is a story of love, loss, and the transformative power of running.
Jake was an extraordinary young man—hardworking, kind, and always encouraging those around him. Even before he could walk, he was practically crossing the monkey bars. It was no surprise when, at 16, he decided to run a marathon. What was a surprise was when he turned to his mom, who had never run more than three miles in her life, and said, “Why don’t you do it too, Mom? You can do it.”
Keirsten laughed at first—but Jake persisted. Together, they trained for the Naha Marathon, just 10 weeks away. On race day, Jake’s determination inspired Keirsten to finish her first marathon at 36. The experience was transformative, and soon they were signing up for more races together.
After a few moves, an enlistment, and major life changes, both continued running independently. Jake ran the Marine Corps Marathon in 2012 and again in 2013 while deployed to Afghanistan. But when he died on January 1, 2014, Keirsten’s world shattered. Grief was overwhelming, and for a long time, she felt unable to breathe.
Running became her lifeline. “It was the one thing we did together, the only thing I knew to do to keep him close. Every mile, every hill, every mountain I climbed—literally and emotionally—I’d hear his voice saying, ‘You can do it, Mom. Just do it,’” she remembers.
Keirsten’s story is a testament to the power of encouragement. Jake had a unique ability to help people see their own strength—whether on a soccer field, a marathon course, or in life. Through running, Keirsten found a way to honor that encouragement and transform her grief into purpose.
“The wear blue community, and this MCM cohort in particular, amplify those words. We’re all in different places in our journeys and in our training, but together, step by step, we’re doing it. Though only 12 of us will cross the finish line, there will really be 24 of us—because we’re never alone,” Keirsten says.
Running now is about more than finishing races. It’s about carrying Jake’s memory, supporting others in their journeys, and using grief to fuel action and remembrance. Through her steps, Keirsten continues to grow, heal, and inspire—showing that love, encouragement, and resilience endure, mile after mile.
Keirsten’s story reminds us that while our heroes may no longer walk beside us, their voices, their lessons, and their love continue to guide us—one step at a time.
Ready to honor a hero of your own? Sign up today to receive your own Hero Match and carry their legacy with every step.
