The Ingredients of a Great Workout!

 

Throughout my 20 year journey in the wake of the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, I've discovered that transformation is not a once and done experience. Healing, like life, ebbs and flows. I am deeply grateful for every run and every workout. Every workout is a good workout but today's before breakfast strength training workout with Tom was a GREAT workout! I was wondering what made this workout so great. We didn't need air conditioning and enjoyed having the windows open hearing the neighborhood birds sing. Our playlist on shuffle seemed to hit just the right vibe to move to and infuse joy into the different challenges. Or maybe it was knowing I was going to share this quote from Dr. Bernie Siegel who has been a coach and a bonus dad in my life since the 1980's.

I came to know the work of Bernie Siegel through a most remarkable nurse who cared for me during a lengthy hospitalization for an infection in my shoulder. She brought me cassette tapes of his lectures about holistic healing. Beth asked me what I needed to heal in my life! Through the years, Bernie has been my coach as I reparented myself and gave birth to the treasure of who I was always meant to be. He and I became particularly close after I received the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome. His teachings seemed to come together for me in a profound way. Writing poetry opened the portal to healing as it ignited the power of the mind/body connection through my imagination and visualization. 

In addition to these external variables, there was also something profoundly internal going on. Tom and I each experienced this deep sense of gratitude and celebration for the life we share in our mid-70's. 20 years ago this December, I'd been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome. During and after the workout I felt exhilarated and energized ready to embrace a new day and a new week feeling gratitude overflow from my heart. I am always grateful and a bit in awe of all my body gives me even when I may be on the struggle bus. I felt over the moon joy and celebration with how I felt during and after this morning's strength training workout. I did take extra time to stretch and let the music flow through me as I incorporated dancing into the exercises. I remembered how I felt in my body in ballet class when I was 5 1/2 years old before childhood paralytic polio and abuse took their toll. The muscle memory felt so real! I felt self-love and compassion surge through me for all I have endured and all I have overcome with grace, strength, determination and resilience. 

While I maintained the consistency of workouts and getting out to run when it was safe to do so given the high heat, humidity and air quality issues, I wasn't experiencing or relishing the incredible miracle of my healing in the wake of the Post-Polio diagnosis. After this morning's workout, I feel as though I've emerged from the cocoon once more. I am flying more freely untethered from the beliefs about aging and disease.

While there's no particular milestone to celebrate, I am celebrating the joy of being alive, feeling transformed once again savoring the ingredients of gratitude, self-love, compassion, awe, joy, the magic of the mind/body connection and movement that created a delicious recipe for a great workout.

 

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

What if the key to overcoming life's greatest challenges lies in the melodies that resonate with our souls? Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast, where hosts Lynn Hoffman and Buzz Knight dive deep into the transformative power of music with our inaugural contest winner, Mary McManus. Mary’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience after contracting paralytic polio at a young age and navigating a tumultuous family environment. Listen to the episode by following this link.

Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others

Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.

Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.

 Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.

 Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.

 

5K Bob's Way!

 

At the Boston Marathon in 1975, Bob Hall pushed himself through the streets of Boston in a hospital wheelchair. No category existed for him. No rules. With the odds stacked against him, he crossed the finish line anyway. His story will give you goosebumps as told by the Today Show, "A Life Well Lived."

In doing so, he opened the door for every disabled athlete who would come after him.

I am one of those mobility impaired athletes who also shares a history of childhood paralytic polio with Bob. Were it not for Bob Hall's pioneering wheelchair Boston Marathon race in 1975, I would have never known the thrill, exhilaration and transformative experience of running the 2009 Boston Marathon as a mobility impaired runner. Although we never met in person, I was blessed to connect with him via email when he was celebrating the 50th anniversary of his pioneering Boston Marathon wheelchair win. I was able to express my heartfelt gratitude to him for paving the way for athletes of different abilities to be able to experience road racing. That's why I am participating in and fundraising for the Inaugural 5K Bob's Way.

Sadly, Bob passed away on April 12, 2026 before he was able to witness his inaugural team of Boston Marathon runners cross the finish line. They were running to raise funds and awareness for REquipment, Inc.

Bob believed in independence, dignity, and access for all. That belief lives on through the Bob Hall Legacy Fund benefiting REquipment, helping ensure that everyone has access to the mobility and assistive technology equipment they need to live fully and freely. Fifty years after Bob Hall became the first wheelchair athlete to officially complete the Boston Marathon, his legacy is powering a movement to expand mobility, independence, and access for people with disabilities across Massachusetts.

The First Annual 5K Bob's Way is taking place on 9/12th. We will be coming together as a community to honor the life and legacy of Bob Hall and support REquipment, Inc. "This event honors the legacy of Bob Hall, a trailblazing wheelchair athlete who changed the future of road racing and opened doors for adaptive athletes everywhere. His determination helped prove that movement, competition, and community belong to everyone. Today, we continue that legacy by creating a space where people of all abilities can run, walk, roll, and participate together.'

Funds raised through this event support accessibility initiatives, adaptive equipment reuse, and programs that empower individuals with disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and self-determination.Your support to my fundraising page will help provide life-changing refurbished mobility equipment to children, adults, veterans, and families who need it most.

Each year, hundreds of Massachusetts residents donate the home medical equipment and assistive technology they no longer use to REquipment. The devices are refurbished and reassigned to older adults and individuals with disabilities, including children and veterans. People who request devices have chronic or newly acquired disabilities, limited or no insurance, a temporary need for a device due to an accident or illness, or their primary device is under repair. Half of REquipment’s device recipients are under the age of 65.

I am incredibly grateful that I had insurance when I needed home medical equipment and assistive devices after I was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006. Equipment necessary for independence, dignity and self-determination is not a luxury yet many do not have the necessary means to acquire the necessary equipment. Fortunately, REquipment is there to help!

I know how incredibly fortunate I am to have healed my life from the once devastating effects of childhood paralytic polio and trauma. I am so excited to be training for the 5K Bob's Way and ask for your support by making a donation to my fundraising page. You can also register for the event on the same page!

Let us honor Bob Hall's incredible legacy that goes beyond the finish line!
Thank you! See you at the starting line!

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

What if the key to overcoming life's greatest challenges lies in the melodies that resonate with our souls? Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast, where hosts Lynn Hoffman and Buzz Knight dive deep into the transformative power of music with our inaugural contest winner, Mary McManus. Mary’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience after contracting paralytic polio at a young age and navigating a tumultuous family environment. Listen to the episode by following this link.

Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others

Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.

Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.

 Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.

 Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.

 

 

Happy Global Wellness Day - Reflections on Sweat!

 

Global Wellness Day 2026 fell on Saturday, June 13, marking the movement's 15th anniversary. The official theme for this year was #JoyMagenta, a celebration of emotional connection, healing, and finding happiness in simple, everyday wellbeing practices. As the founder of #globalwellnessday, Belgin Aksoy, said on her Instagram page, "Do not wait for a life threatening illness to focus on wellness!"

Garmin let me know it was Global Wellness Day and rewarded me with a badge after recording our magnificent morning, albeit a bit sultry miles. Who needs a reward when feeling free, strong and joyful is the reward for being unplugged, soaking up the magnificence of Nature and being side by side, stride by stride with my bestie Tom.

The diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006 was my wake-up call. I do wish I didn't wait for a life threatening illness to focus on wellness, but we don't know what we don't know. With my journey back to health and wellness, I can inspire and motivate others. 

Summer has finally returned to Boston which means sweaty runs and workouts. I love embracing my sweat and the feeling of sweat trickling down the small of my back long after the workout has ended. As George Sheehan said, "Sweat cleanses from the inside out. It reaches places a shower never could."

"The cure for anything is Saltwater: sweat, tears or the sea," is a wise quote by Isak Dinesen. As we got in our magnificent morning miles in South Boston on Saturday, Tom and I felt exhilarated, cleansed and renewed. Every step of mine was infused with gratitude to be back by the ocean feeling its magic and magnificence.

During the week we had soupy steamy miles around the Cleveland Circle Reservoir. Being unplugged out in Nature and soaking up the negative air ions from the water is one of my favorite health and wellness practices. The negative air ions created by water are known to purify the air and boost mood.

 

If you would have seen me 19 years ago in a toe-up leg brace using a cane and at times a wheelchair for mobility, you would never have guessed (nor would I) that I'd be out on in the morning getting in magnificent morning miles. It's a gift to rise above the noise that's happening in the world and find serenity unplugged in Nature. It's a sacred time Tom and I spend together. I love the scents, sights and sounds of late Spring in Boston and the sensation of sweat from my forehead cascading into my eyes. 

I share my healing story to inspire others with what's possible despite a devastating diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome and a dire prognosis of spending the rest of my life in a wheelchair expecting an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged. But I am also a voice for encouraging people, especially those in their later years, to not wait for a wake up call to get moving and pay attention to wellness. I have a Resources for Well-Being page on my website. On my News and Events page, you'll find inspiring conversations on podcasts and where you can find my remarkable journey of transformation. 

I'm savoring every run and workout when I can wear a tank top or t-shirt and shorts, embracing the sweat that comes with summer running, especially after the winter we had. Every day is a celebration of life for me that is magnified when I get to celebrate a day like Global Wellness Day.

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

What if the key to overcoming life's greatest challenges lies in the melodies that resonate with our souls? Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast, where hosts Lynn Hoffman and Buzz Knight dive deep into the transformative power of music with our inaugural contest winner, Mary McManus. Mary’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience after contracting paralytic polio at a young age and navigating a tumultuous family environment. Listen to the episode by following this link.

Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others

Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.

Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.

 Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.

 Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.

 

Happy Global Running Day 2026!

 

On Wednesday, Tom and I celebrated Global Running Day with magical magnificent early morning miles. It had been a year since we set the alarm to 6:00am to embrace the start of a new day with morning miles. We had absolutely perfect weather for before breakfast morning miles. I said to Tom that I felt in every step I was saying to my body, "I love you." For years I felt as though my body were something I lugged around. Childhood paralytic polio and trauma left their mark. BUT after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006, when I was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged, I went on a quest to heal my life.

I tapped into Source as my pen became my divining rod for healing writing poetry that opened the portal to discovering the treasure of who I was always meant to be. I unleashed the power of self-love. 

Early morning runs on a perfect weather day is heaven on Earth. My heart overflows with gratitude for the gift of running in my life. 

If you would have seen me 19 years ago in a toe-up leg brace, using a cane at times for mobility and not being able to get off of the couch or toilet seat without assistance, needing a tub bench when taking a shower because of fatigue and unsteadiness on my feet, and having difficulty climbing the stairs in my house you would have said there's no way that woman is going to run the 2009 Boston Marathon and go on to have many adventures as a most unlikely runner.

But that's exactly what happened!

These days, Tom and I are running just for the health of it after a very rigorous and intense training cycle on the road to the Hyannis 10K in March. There are miles filled with smiles and joy. Last Saturday's weather was unseasonably raw and cold. One of the luxuries of not having a training schedule is it's easy to shuffle our running and strength training days. We got in a work out on Saturday with a rigorous deep cleaning of our home. On Sunday, we enjoyed an easy few miles gearing up for Wednesday's celebration of Global Running Day. Mondays are for strength training and I enjoyed reflecting on this Walt Disney quote:

And you know what? Transformation is not a once and done experience. In 2021/2022 I had a major setback in my healing  from childhood paralytic polio and trauma after an adverse reaction to the 2nd COVID vaccine. 

I needed to continue to harness the power of the mind/body connection through visualization, double down on my self-care routine and remind myself of all the healing that went before. It took time to get back on the roads. I cannot imagine my life without running whatever the pace and whatever the distance. 

 

 

This year's Global Running Day celebration was especially sweet celebrating 19 years since I took a leap of faith leaving behind my award-winning social work career on 5/25 to heal my life. The only goal Tom and I shared was to savor the time together unplugged in Nature on a picture perfect weather day.  

I'm excited to resume early morning summer runs needing only a t-shirt or singlet and shorts to head out the door. I'm delighted with feeling strong and healthy as all the 'niggles' from that training cycle continue to heal. It was great run to pass runners and say with a big smile, "Happy Global Running Day!" "You too," they'd respond with smiles reflecting back to me the joy I felt in my heart and soul.

 

 

 

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

What if the key to overcoming life's greatest challenges lies in the melodies that resonate with our souls? Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast, where hosts Lynn Hoffman and Buzz Knight dive deep into the transformative power of music with our inaugural contest winner, Mary McManus. Mary’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience after contracting paralytic polio at a young age and navigating a tumultuous family environment. Listen to the episode by following this link.

Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others

Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.

Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.

 Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.

 Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.

 

 

A Celebratory 5K!

 

When I first set out on a quest to heal my life after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006, when I was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged, I knew there was going to be pain. There was going to be pain of atrophy and decline if I succumbed to the diagnosis or there was going to be pain as I worked to build strength and endurance. I chose the pain of building strength and endurance all the way to the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon.

 

Tom and I had a rigorous training cycle through the bitter cold and snowy winter of 2026. Our goal race, the Hyannis Marathon Weekend 10K was cancelled because of the Blizzard of '26 but I'd gone beyond the distance of the 10K with my birthday celebration of 7.2 miles. We have needed a lot of time to recover, especially after we ran back to back 4 miles in snow, slush and ice. This past Saturday was the anniversary of when I had a Book Release Party for my first (and what I thought would be my only book) at Brookline Marathon Sports where I bought my first pair of running shoes in February of 2008. Despite never having run a day in my life and still wearing a toe-up leg brace for support, I declared to my personal trainer that my next health and fitness goal was to run the Boston Marathon. "Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing, Hope and Possibility" was the first book in a Trilogy of Transformation followed by two books I wrote during the pandemic. Writers gotta write and poets gotta create! I am working on my 8th book, "Running the Race: From Atrophy to Astonishing!" 

 

Monday, 5/25th was the 19th anniversary of when I took a leap of faith leaving behind my award-winning social work career at the VA to heal my life. To celebrate, I suggested to Tom that we should get back to the 5K distance.

 

It was a spontaneous, fabulous 5K from our home to two loops around the Route 9 Reservoir and back. 
I am forever grateful to Tom for telling me it was a no-brainer that I should leave my career 3 years shy of when I was eligible for retirement after receiving the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome. Today's fantastic 5K refreshed us mind, body and soul as were unplugged among lush green trees hearing the birds and infusing our senses with all that Nature has to offer. 

 

Research suggests that being among trees exposes you to phytoncides. When inhaled, these compounds are shown to increase white blood cell activity and reduce stress hormones. It's how I continue to age strong! We had a goodp laugh when we got home realizing that we'd forgotten to bring our fuel. We had made such a spontaneous decision to go out the front door and extend our mileage from 2 miles (as our bodies, especially my right knee recovered from our training cycle) to a 5K, that we only brought water. Fortunately, our bodies responded well given the solid base we built from last June until March. 

 

I felt unbridled joy and exhilaration celebrating 19 years of healing after taking what was clearly the biggest risk I'd ever taken in my life. December will mark 20 years since I was given the diagnosis with that dire prognosis. Tom and I expressed our deep gratitude for our recent training cycle and contentment with doing workouts and runs right now without the pressure of a race. When I sat in my yard after having cleared out of the VA on 5/25/2007, I breathed a sigh of relief while also feeling a moment of terror wondering what had I just done?!? The Universe has consistently had my back during these past 19 years and I have consistently invested in my physical, mental and spiritual well-being. I've been blessed to share my message of what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary inspiring others to go beyond perceived limitations. It's a privilege and an honor to be a role model for health and vitality regardless of the number of birthdays one has celebrated. My journey also speaks to how one can heal trauma and overcome life's greatest challenges at any age.

 

 Every day is a celebration of life for me. We punctuated the celebration of life with a 5K that coincided with the anniversaries of the Book Release party for my first book and when I took a leap of faith 19 years ago. May my journey ignite a spark within you to know that a whole world of possibilities exists beyond what the eyes can see when the heart and soul light the way!

 

In health and wellness - Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

What if the key to overcoming life's greatest challenges lies in the melodies that resonate with our souls? Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast, where hosts Lynn Hoffman and Buzz Knight dive deep into the transformative power of music with our inaugural contest winner, Mary McManus. Mary’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience after contracting paralytic polio at a young age and navigating a tumultuous family environment. Listen to the episode by following this link.

Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others

Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.

Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.

 Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.

 Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.