Malia Hinton has always been passionate about staying active. A former collegiate soccer player, Malia transitioned to running after her soccer career ended, seeking a new way to stay active. Her running journey took a consequential turn when she decided to run a marathon in honor of someone close to her, Kiersten Crosby.

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"Running the marathon was my way of keeping Kiersten's spirit alive," says Malia, a current nursing student at Robert Morris University.

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Malia describes Kiersten as her second mother. Growing up with Kiersten’s family, Malia became best friends with her daughters, and inseparable from their family. Bonding over their shared love for exercise, Kiersten encouraged Malia and her daughter to join her gym and take exercise classes together.

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Her dedication to staying active did not waver, even during her battle with breast cancer.

"Kiersten was training for a half marathon while undergoing cancer treatment. Watching her push through such a difficult time was incredibly empowering and inspirational," Malia recalls.

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Initially, Malia planned to run a half marathon in the Spring of 2024 in solidarity with Kiersten, who was also training for the half marathon. However, tragically, Kiersten passed away in November 2023 before she could participate in the race.

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"I realized I could do more than just run. I could make a difference in Kiersten’s name. So, I decided to run the full marathon. Her battle was harder than any marathon could ever be."

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When signing up for the 2024 Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, Malia saw the Run for a Reason charity option and decided to dedicate her run to Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, where Kiersten received treatment.

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“When I saw Magee was a charity option, there was no second thought about it. [Kiersten’s] nurse, Sierra McClain, made a huge difference for her and her treatment. She was patient and loving and made Kiersten comfortable,” says Malia.

 

“I was honored to run for Magee. I hoped through this, people would understand the incredible work done at Magee. They gave Kiersten and so many others a fighting chance.”

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On the day of the marathon, Malia donned an "I will Run for a Cure” T-shirt with a tribute to Kiersten on the back. Throughout the race, Kiersten's family and friends provided immense support, encouraging her and reminding her of the reason she was running.

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"The cheers from the crowd, the signs with Kiersten's name, it all pushed me forward. It was like she was running with me," Malia says. "At mile 20, I saw Kiersten’s parents. It was one of the hardest moments for me, but it also gave me the strength to push through the last six miles."

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Malia’s efforts were not just about completing the marathon, but also about fundraising for Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, where she successfully raised over $2,000.

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“When I put the link out there for people to donate in honor of Kiersten, I got to see messages and donations come in from people who were connected to her, and it was really uplifting to know we could do something like that for her.”

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Inspired by the success of her first marathon, Malia has already signed up for next year.

Malia’s advice to those considering running the marathon next year: "Pick a charity. Running 26 miles is mentally and physically challenging, but having a purpose makes it worthwhile. You're not just running to cross the finish line; you're running for a cause, for people who rely on your support. That motivation is what pushes you through the tough moments."

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