ALESIA HICKS and ALFRED PHILLIPS

Atlanta and Ithaca, N.Y. Times: 5:51, 5:52
Doctors had told her she wouldn't be walking come race day, a result of the multiple sclerosis. But Hicks had proved them wrong. The miles, however, were taking
their toll on the lawyer -- at Mile 18 she was on the verge of quitting. Then along came Phillips, a veteran of more than 50 marathons. The retired
Cornell professor buoyed Hicks, ran alongside her and escorted her like a gentleman across the finish line. "He is a blessing," said Hicks, wrapping
her Mylar-draped arms around her new friend. "I was getting ready to quit and I prayed to the Lord and he came along. He is my angel."