BOSTON -- A North Shore man who's been running the Boston Marathon for 24 years said Monday's race will be all about survival.

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Jorge Quiroga Reports On Runner

NewsCenter 5's Jorge Quiroga reported that Dan Peterson, 54, is living with a severe form of cancer.

"I had my arm taken off on Jan. 3. Had sterotactic brain surgery three times. It has been a busy last nine months, with the challenges," he said.

Peterson's challenges stem from terminal stage four melanoma.

"You become better at the measure of who you are, and want to do," he said. "I was blessed that my priorities weren't changed when I found out that I had stage four melanoma, but I also learned to dig a little deeper."

Celebrating ordinary runners with inspiring stories, Saucony Running Shoes chose Peterson as their "Man of the Year." The tumor that claimed his arm and the cancer that riddles his body are only two of the many reasons why he was chosen.

"He's touched so many peoples' lives because he really is a very positive person. He always says that life is about being in the game, being a participant," said Peterson's wife, Julie, a former competitive distance runner.

The couple has one daughter, Andrea.

"You don't beat, win or survive -- you live everyday. That's what I have. That's what you have. And your blessings are right in front of you. Sure, I have had a couple of bumps. But I have nothing to complain about," he said.

Whatever it takes and no matter how long it takes him, for Peterson, finishing this year will be his personal best.

In the past, Peterson has finished marathons in everything from 2:42 to 5 hours.