Hundreds attend kick-off event for The Heather Abbott Foundation - Boston News, Weather, Sports | FOX 25 | MyFoxBoston

They walked in one-by-one, each surrounded by friends and family, each immensely dedicated to the cause, spearheaded by the energetic and effervescent Heather Abbott.

Abbott was among those injured on Boylston Street during the 2013 Boston Marathon. Two years later, just steps from where she lost her left leg in one of the United States most infamous terror attacks, she hosted a gala kick-off for The Heather Abbott Foundation. Organizers report over $15,000 was raised Sunday afternoon.

More than 300 friends and supporters packed the upper level of Towne Stove & Spirits as Bostonians continue to reclaim the spirit and heartbeat of the marathon. 

“The marathon was always a fun day for me, that's always been my memory of the Boston Marathon until 2013,” said Abbott. “Last year, I had a great day. I ran the last half-mile with the woman who saved my life and spent a good part of the day with her. I plan on creating good memories of this weekend again.”

It's a sentiment shared by millions, but only those directly affected, physically, can appreciate the daily challenges associated with living life with a prosthetic limb.

“One of the first things Heather asked me when I met her in her hospital room was if she could wear high heels again,” said BJ Ganem, a member of the Semper Fi Fund who lost his leg serving the United States in our armed forces.

“I had done so much with prosthetics, but I'd never worn heels. And look at her now – she's rocking four-inch heels no problem,” said Ganem.

Hillary Cohen was faced with a medical condition that forced her to consider amputating her leg. She turned to Abbott for advice and counsel.

“The prosthetic industry is very male-oriented,” said Cohen. “I didn't have anybody to talk to when I was facing my surgery until I met Heather and she was very helpful to me. I feel it's my job now to be helpful to others moving forward.”

The Heather Abbott Foundation will assist patients who are facing financial difficulties associated with losing a limb in a traumatic fashion.

“I knew I wanted to start a foundation,” said Abbott. “We put the wheels in motion nine months ago and have been meeting every week since. I've spoken to thousands of people at so many different events, but I'm really nervous about today with so much attention focused on something that was created by me. It will be an emotional day.”

As preparations for this year's marathon continue, Abbott doesn't take much time to reflect on the past, only what she's learned about people over the last two years.

“I've learned how Americans react in overwhelming fashion when people are injured in an attack,” said Abbott. “I've met people who've dedicated their lives and careers to others. I've learned how important blood donations are – so many things I view from a new perspective.”