E very time I’ve visited Oakland Cemetery , I’ve been in costume. I realize that’s a weird flex, but stay with me.

My first visit to the cemetery was during the Run Like Hell 5K race in 2023—what felt like the best and worst day of my life. Entering Oakland’s bricked walls, I was greeted by torrential rain, 20 mph winds, and an unexpected cold front so sharp that each raindrop seemed to pan-fry my skin. Still, I had trained for this. My dog, Mya, and I had spent three solid weeks running untimed 5Ks at a park near my home.

The Run Like Hell race started 18 years ago as a fundraiser for the cemetery. Runners do two laps around the grounds; costumes are encouraged, and dogs are welcome. I admit, I’ve never been much of a runner: My cardio routine usually involves low-impact Zumba or a r

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