A Bucket List Adventure to NYC-Part 2

 

After reading Jeffrey Seller's "Theater Kid," I listened to his conversation on The Hamilcast. I was moved to reach out to him to let him know my reaction as I read his book, especially seeing my cousin's name jump off the page in Chapter 20 as I mentioned in Part 1. I sent it to a general contact email having no idea whether or not he would receive it. He responded within a day! He thanked me for my kind, wonderful note and let me know that my cousin and his partner enthusiastically attended his book launch for Theater Kid at the Public Theater in May of 2025. I'd lost touch with Paul after our Aunt died but I followed his career to the MUNY and his Tony nomination for "Beautiful." He's not on social media (or has a very low profile) and I often wondered if he were still among us. What a joy to know from Jeffrey that he still keeps an apartment in NY and is doing well! When I shared this with Gillian, the host of The Hamilcast, she said, "What are the chances? So cool you chatted with Jeffrey about your mutual connection." One phrase that Gillian often calls up on her pod is "What are the odds the gods would put us all in one spot." She does so when she expresses her awe at the amazing tapestry woven together through The Hamilcast. What are the odds that a podcast that began as a conversation between two friends about Hamilton would become a part of the Hamilton legacy 10 years and 500 episodes later? And what are the odds that the gods would bring together Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tommy Kail, Alex Lacamoire and Andy Blankenbuehler, aka "The Cabinet" to create this theatrical masterpiece!

  

We returned to the West Bank Cafe, voted Best Brunch in Hell's Kitchen for our pre-theater brunch. I enjoyed a Virgin Mimosa. We chose the Brioche French Toast enjoying extraordinary foods and flavors.  

 

We had plenty of time to walk to the theater on a beautiful warm Spring day. As I mentioned in Part 1, I have overcome much of the challenges of paralytic polio and trauma (I even ran the 2009 Boston Marathon!) but there are moments that still challenge me. We bought Orchestra seats so that I wouldn't have to climb the often steep steps that lead to the mezzanine. When we entered the theater and showed our tickets, we were told to go up the stairs. They also announced there were no bathrooms beyond the lobby (and the bathroom was down a  flight of stairs). Tom asked if there was an elevator and was told there was none. As a side bar, I did a search about accessibility at the Rodgers. There is a handicapped accessible bathroom in the lobby and there are seats in the orchestra that can be accessed without stairs. I harnessed the power of my mind and conscious movement to mindfully climb the stairs and descend the stairs to our row. I was NOT going to throw away my shot to see Hamilton!

 

We chatted with the families seated around us. They were from Oklahoma and Utah. It was one girl's 11th birthday. Her birthday wish was a trip to New York to see Hamilton. She was one year old when the show opened! It is still a phenomenon Hamilten plus years later. There is a line in the West Wing that Sam says to CJ, ""Let's forget the fact that you're coming a little late to the party and embrace the fact that you showed up at all." I remember seeing a video of Lin-Manuel's final Hamilton performance when Alex Lacamoire led the orchestra in playing the West Wing theme!  I know that my Hamilton experience was Divine Timing as all the stars aligned to create an unforgettable theatrical experience. I still feel #allthefeels and goosebumps as I am writing this. 

 

The Hamilcast episodes informed and enhanced my experience of Hamilton at the Rodgers. Seeing the show through the lens of The Cabinet and feeling their presence, I was in awe of their creative process that created this perfect melding of voices, dance, and orchestrations while telling the story of tonight. The show evolved not only through the collaboration of The Cabinet, but the interaction between the actors and The Cabinet. The Cabinet also allowed the actors and musicians to inspire the evolution of Hamilton. While there were many prominent moments informed by The Hamilcast conversations, there were 2 moments that took my breath away. Aaron Burr's table jump and The Room Where It Happens scene sent shivers up and down my spine after hearing Gillian's conversations with several of the actors who played Burr and with choreographer Andy Blankenbuehler. I was completely unprepared for experiencing Yorktown live. My breath caught as I felt this connection to something far greater than I am. I felt connected to Gillian, her podcast, the Patreon peeps as they are affectionately called, the Cabinet, the world of musical theater and beyond! At that moment, I intuitively felt how everything aligned to bring me to that moment. I fought my own Revolution after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome (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) to free myself from the tyranny of my past. While I've always believed in "something more," hearing the music live deeply resonated in my soul as it reverberated throughout the Richard Rodgers Theater. 

 

I sat mesmerized throughout the show bearing witness to creative genius. I allowed myself to be moved swept up by an extraordinary company of actors. Time suspended for 2 hours and 45 minutes sharing the experience with 1300 other theater patrons. Tom captured these moments as the audience stood and cheered after the final note of "Who Tells Your Story."

I took a deep breath soaking in the soul moving experience that IS Hamilton before descending the stairs. I was totally confident in my body's ability to safely navigate the stairs despite not having a full railing. I was assertive with my fellow theater goers letting them know that I had to have the railing on my left side. They were understanding and allowed me to pass through! Since we had not been able to get to the Drama Book Shop on Friday, it was perfect timing to go after seeing Hamilton. Although the Drama Book Shop moved from its original location, the creative energies of all that happened in its basement was still palpable. My wide eyed childlike wonder continued as we sauntered through the shop. To get there, we had to navigate our way through the theater crowd of exhilarated theater goers, many of whom were gathering at stage doors joyfully clutching their Playbills. We opted to skip the stage door experience to go to the Drama Book Shop. 

 

They were unfortunately sold out of signed copies of Daniel Pollack-Pelzner's book, "Lin-Manuel Miranda: The Education of an Artist"so we bought Ron Chernow's book instead. We walked back to the hotel talking still buzzing with the energy of Hamilton and The Drama Book Shop. 

 

When we arrived at the West Bank Cafe for our 6pm dinner reservation, the energy was electric! How wonderful to be greeted by Michael and Tom asking us how we enjoyed the show. We had a table in the main dining room with diners on either side of our table. A love of food and theater were the topics of conversation. Tom D'Angora was busy serving tables but made sure to stop by to check on us and see what we ordered. We started with a Caesar Salad that had a delightful light dressing with crisp fresh romaine lettuce and croutons. We couldn't decide between the chicken or eggplant parmesan so my Tom and I split the dishes. I don't remember the last time I enjoyed NY style chicken and eggplant parmesan. It has a unique flavor and texture that was muah - chef's kiss. The pasta was cooked to perfection with just the right amount of parmesan cheese garnish. As we left, Tom D'Angora gave me the biggest hug and wished us safe travels. He was delighted we had such an amazing adventure that exceeded all expectations.

 

The weather dramatically changed on Sunday morning but we were so deeply grateful for the two sunny warm days on Friday and Saturday. Fortunately we packed warm clothes that served us well as we walked to the WBC to have brunch one last time. Tom had a veggie omelette and I ordered eggs florentine with one more Virgin Mimosa. When I'm tired after a whirlwind of activity, the tremors that linger from polio and trauma can get activated. I unashamedly asked for a straw. Our server said, "Yes of course. I should have brought it sooner," as he had seen me try to steady the glass to drink. The magic of Hamilton and NYC was a catalyst to help me accept my challenges while continuing to harness the power of visualization and conscious movement to heal. Tom and Michael's warm welcome, their hospitality and unconditional love was also a healing balm.

Michael was at the Cafe Sunday morning. I was so happy we had a chance to say goodbye to him until next time and thank him for the amazing hospitality and food. My one souvenir was buying a West Bank Cafe t-shirt but I packed a suitcase full of memories to take home.

 

When we arrived at Penn Station, I was concerned about how we would get downstairs to get to the track. Back Bay is so easy with one elevator that takes you to Tracks 1 and 2. Fortunately, the woman we asked if the elevators went to all the tracks suggested we secure the Red Cap Baggage Assistance since it was a very complicated system. Who knew there was pre-boarding assistance for a train? We had the most wonderful Red Cap service. I was so relaxed, I didn't even mind the gap when boarding the train! 

 

On the way back to Boston, I downloaded the remainder of the songs to complete my OBC Album for Hamilton. We played it as the soundtrack to our strength training workout Saturday morning. When we got home, I dusted off my copy of Mike Anthony's "Life at Hamilton" and have already started re-reading it while Tom dove into Ron Chernow's book. 

 So often, when one experiences childhood trauma, it can be difficult to harvest the memories that bring joy. This bucket list adventure to NYC and seeing Hamilton healed me in ways I did not even know was possible. I revisited the power and magic of musical theater and felt a connection to my cousin Paul Blake who introduced me to Broadway musicals. The Hamilcast episodes took me on a deep dive behind the scenes having a lens through which to experience Hamilton in a profound way. As President Bartlett on The West Wing often queried, "What's next?" I have The Hamilcast website tab open on my laptop to catch up on episodes I missed from coming late to the party. I'm excited to re-read "Life at Hamilton." I'll continue to listen to the OBC album and experience the many layers of all that is Hamilton. But most of all, I will allow this experience to integrate into the very fabric of my very Being as I move forward in my life. 

We'll be back to NYC in October and see what adventures the Universe has in store.

 

Coincidentally, this Thursday I am recording an episode of the "Music Saved Me"  podcast. I am the winner of the Music Saved Me Story contest. I won sharing how my cousin introduced me to Broadway musicals and how, playing viola in my high school orchestra was an antidote to the bullying I experienced. I also shared how Broadway musicals became the soundtrack for my healing after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome.

 

Stay tuned....

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. 

 

"Meet Mary McManus — our first-ever Music Saved Me Story Contest winner.
We asked you to share the stories of the songs, the albums, and the moments when music reached in and changed everything. You delivered. And one story stopped us in our tracks. We are thrilled to announce that Mary McManus is the winner of the first-ever Music Saved Me Story Contest. Mary’s journey is one for the ages. She contracted paralytic polio at age five. She survived years of childhood trauma. And then, at the height of an award-winning career as a VA social worker, she was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome and told to prepare to spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair.

Music — and the healing power of words — had other plans for Mary.
Through poetry, perseverance, and an unshakeable belief in what’s possible, Mary transformed her life. At 53 she became a runner. At 55 she crossed the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon. That is what music can do." 

 

Mary will be the guest on an upcoming exclusive episode of the "Music Saved Me" podcast.

 I was recently 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 Bucket List Adventure to NYC - Part 1

 

Anyone with a heartbeat heard the stir that "Hamilton" was causing from the 2009 performance at the White House to Hamilton playing to sold out audiences, the Ham4Ham performances, and the Tony sweep in June of 2016. Hamilton became an integral part of the fabric of our nation as we navigated the world turned upside down with our political climate and the pandemic. On a personal note, my son's high school friend, Nik Walker took the lead as Aaron Burr. I read Mike Anthony's book, "Life at Hamilton." I never imagined that one day, I too would be sitting in the audience at the Richard Rodgers Theater to experience all that is "Hamilton."

There was a confluence of events that called my soul back to New York City to have a Bucket List Adventure. Last year I was a guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. I'd been a fan before I was a guest given their uplifting and inspiring conversations especially during these challenging times. Episode 95 was an Episode Swap with Arts Educators Save the World which I started following after the episode swap with Jonathan Groff. Coincidentally, Erica went to school with Lin-Manuel Miranda at Hunter College High School. Her first episodes in 2022, on Arts Educators was with Lin and Bobby Lopez. I subscribed to Arts Educators. In September of last year, Erica's guest was Daniel Pollack-Pelzner, author of "Lin Manuel-Miranda: The Education of an Artist." I started following Daniel on Instagram. I had not heard of The Hamilcast before Daniel was a guest talking about his soon to be released book. I was drawn into the world of Hamilton via The Hamilcast and Lin-Manuel's world reading Daniel's book. Hamilten filled the social media news feed. What a thrill to see Hamilton on the big screen in early September while getting behind the scenes conversations on The Hamilcast. 

I'd been social media friends with Tom and Michael D'Angora for several years. Tom and I connected initially as Fanilows. Our connection grew deeper after Kamala Harris lost the election. He was a beacon of light in the darkness. He had a major role in Hillary Clinton's campaign and was no stranger to the profound feelings we experienced after both elections. In January 2025, Tom and Michael saved a beloved theater district staple, The West Bank Cafe, from closure. I was drawn to the restaurant and its food and ambiance like a moth to a flame.

Javier Munoz, who (among many other things) narrated Daniel's book, was in "Wonder," here in Cambridge, MA. On January 1st, he posted a reel taking the Acela to New York to sing at Mayor Mamdani's inauguration. It sealed the deal for me to set the bucket list goal of an NYC adventure for 2026.

Train tickets, theater tickets and hotel were booked on January 11th for April 17-19th. I felt divinely guided. Tom and I just knew we wanted to do something different for the Boston Marathon Weekend this year. As a very long, cold, snowy winter dragged on, I kept myself warm and my spirits high listening to the Hamilcast, reading Daniel's book, Jeffrey Seller's book, "Theater Kid" while training for the Hyannis Marathon Weekend 10K. The disappointment of race weekend being cancelled because of the blizzard, was tempered by knowing I would be returning to NYC in 6 weeks.

I grew up in Westchester. I contracted paralytic polio in one of the last polio epidemics. I endured abuse at the hands of a drug addicted mother and an alcoholic father BUT my cousin, Paul Blake would come to our house from the Bronx and play show tunes at our piano encouraging me to belt out songs despite not being able to keep a tune in a bucket. He encouraged my parents to take us to see Broadway shows. When the lights dimmed and the curtain rose, I was transported to another world. Musical theater provided not only a healing balm but lit up my heart and soul. In Chapter 20 in "Theater Kid" my cousin's name leapt off of the page. He played an influential role in Jeffrey's life as a producer. I was feeling all the feels of our NYC bucket list adventure before the train left the station.

Because it was Boston Marathon weekend, Tom and I did not want to take public transportation, Uber or Lyft to the train station. We left plenty of time to get to the station using Boston Carriage, a limousine service. Why not right? After all it was a Bucket List adventure. When we went to the track we asked someone if they knew how to gauge where the cars stop since we had reserved seats. She smiled and pointed down to signs that indicated car numbers. We boarded the train with ease. I often get anxious when I have to "mind the gap" but I visualized myself easily stepping onto the train. Although I have mostly overcome the effects of paralytic polio and trauma, I still experience challenges in certain situations. What a luxury to have 3 1/2 hours to sit back and just be present! I meditated, enjoyed the scenery and the anticipation of heading to New York on a rail line I often took from Westchester to New York. My great Aunt Laura would have me take the train in to meet her. We'd have lunch, go to a matinee and I'd sleep over in her Greenwich Village apartment. 

We didn't mind waiting for a taxi outside of Moynihan Train Hall. It was sunny and 70 degrees! We put our jackets in the suitcase, turned our faces to the sun and listened to the unique sounds of NYC. I chose the Double Tree Hilton at Times Square West because of its proximity to the West Bank Cafe and the theater district. After a light bite in the Hotel restaurant, we headed up to our room. We were fortunate to get an early check in. We planned to unpack and head over to the Drama Book Shop before dinner. The Universe had other plans. That delicious sun that greeted us when we arrived, had been baking the room on the 29th floor. The thermostat was broken! Fortunately, Grace was the Front Desk Manager and after engineering declared that they couldn't fix it, she arranged for us to have another room. She took off the charges for our lunch and the upgrade to an upper floor and late checkout because of the inconvenience. We packed up, moved to our new room which was blissfully cool, unpacked for the 2nd time and rested before dinner.

It was a short walk to the West Bank Cafe. It was surreal to see what I'd seen in social media in 3D, up close and personal.

  

I felt goosebumps seeing that Donna McKechnie is one of the Legends of Broadway doing a residency at the Beechman Theatre. I met Donna when I was a teenager at my cousin Paul's apartment in the Village at a Christmas Party and had seen her in Promises, Promises, Company and A Chorus Line. When Tom and I entered The West Bank Cafe, he asked me if I recognized anybody. There was a line of diners waiting to be seated. Towering above them all was my Facebook/Instagram friend Tom D'Angora and his husband Michael. We chatted a bit before Tom led us to a cozy booth in the back of the restaurant. I was like a wide-eyed child taking in the whole scene of Hirschfeld drawings that lined the walls absorbing the ambiance that doesn't come through on social media. Tom let us know that this was his Hirschfeld collection, pointing out the different celebrities. Andrea McArdle's original Annie was on loan from the star herself.

 Shortly after we sat down, Tom presented us with a plate of the WBC's signature Risotto Balls. I'd been 'drooling' over them on social media. My Tom suggested we take a photo with Tom which he was enthusiastically and delighted to do. While we were waiting for our dinner, we chatted as though we'd known each other all of our lives. We had to take another photo when our main course arrived. The only problem with my salmon was, I don't know how I will eat salmon again after eating this exquisitely prepared dish. Tom had the special of a seafood pesto.

I was in awe of how Tom and Michael make everyone feel as though they are guests in their home ensuring that every diner is attended to. Of course we had to sample one of their desserts choosing a selection of homemade cookies with cappuccino.

 

As we left the restaurant, we hugged as dear friends hug expressing heartfelt gratitude for their hospitality and the amazing space Tom and Michael created.  

 

An after dinner walk was in order to scope out how to get to the Richard Rodgers Theater from the West Bank Cafe where we'd be having our pre-theater brunch. I may have cried tears of gratitude and joy feeling goosebumps all over when we approached the theater marquis. I'd seen so many social media posts of people who were going to be in the room where it happened outside the theater. Now it was my turn!

 

Despite being up since 6am, I was filled with vibrant energy, and a heart overflowing with gratitude. The anticipation from having patiently waited 10 years to be in the room where it happened was almost over. Except for the glitch with the thermostat at the hotel, we had a perfect day. That glitch turned out to be a blessing (as they always do). 

It was an unseasonably warm evening in New York. My great Aunt Laura would have been proud that we found our way back to the hotel without getting lost. She took great pride and care to teach me about navigating the grid in NYC on foot without the help of Google girl. We were incredibly grateful that our hotel room was cool, ensuring a good night's sleep before a full and busy day on Saturday. 

 

To be continued....

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. 

 

"Meet Mary McManus — our first-ever Music Saved Me Story Contest winner.
We asked you to share the stories of the songs, the albums, and the moments when music reached in and changed everything. You delivered. And one story stopped us in our tracks. We are thrilled to announce that Mary McManus is the winner of the first-ever Music Saved Me Story Contest. Mary’s journey is one for the ages. She contracted paralytic polio at age five. She survived years of childhood trauma. And then, at the height of an award-winning career as a VA social worker, she was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome and told to prepare to spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair.

Music — and the healing power of words — had other plans for Mary.
Through poetry, perseverance, and an unshakeable belief in what’s possible, Mary transformed her life. At 53 she became a runner. At 55 she crossed the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon. That is what music can do." 

 

Mary will be the guest on an upcoming exclusive episode of the "Music Saved Me" podcast.

 I was recently 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.

 

 

 

National Poetry Month: Reflections on a Journey of Transformation

As I 'cleared out' of the VA on 5/25/2007, I had no idea what the future held for me or, if in fact I had a future. In December of 2006, I'd been given the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease. 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. In February of 2007, I did what I had often done throughout my life when I faced seemingly insurmountable challenges. I got still and asked for Divine Guidance. The answer to my prayer - or should I say answers to my prayer - came in the form of a poem, "Running the Race" followed by what turned out to be an anthology of poems. My imagination ignited the power of the mind/body connection that created a future very different than the one Western Medicine predicted for me.

 

I took a leap of faith leaving behind an almost 6-figure salary with benefits just 3 years shy of when I would be eligible to retire. I followed my newfound bliss of writing poetry and even started a small business, "New World Greeting Cards: Original Poetry for Every Occasion." While poetry brought me joy; I literally felt no pain when I wrote poetry, and my pen became my divining rod for healing, there were much bigger plans on the horizon for me. 

 

In October of 2007, I met Janine Hightower, a personal trainer who was recruiting me to be part of her BNI group. The conversation about BNI and promoting my business faded into the background. Her in home personal training business came into sharp focus.

 

"Do you think you could help me to build on the outpatient rehab program Allison (my outpatient physical therapist) gave me when I was discharged in May?"

 

"Well, as Henry Ford said, 'Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right!'" She shared with me that I was too young to not be able to get off of a toilet seat or sofa without help or to need to use a tub chair in the shower. I was using a cane and a toe-up leg brace for mobility. I no longer needed a wheelchair since taking off the stress on mind, body and soul of my full-time job. Janine held enough faith for the two of us that I would be able to improve my functioning and quality of life.

 

In February of 2008, we were ready for me to set my next goals. I was so excited by the gains I'd made as evidenced by the difference in strength and endurance from our first session. I told Janine, "I want to feel free in my body. I want to walk outside independently without my leg brace and cane. Maybe I'll take a dance class again. I loved ballet before I contracted paralytic polio. Let's diversify my workouts."

 

She gathered up her things and had her hand on the door knob.

 

"Wait. I have one more goal."

 

"What's that?" she asked. 

 

What I said next bypassed any thought and came straight from the depths of my soul. "I want to run the Boston Marathon next year. I hear that Spaulding Rehab has a charity team."

 

Now she could have easily said how ridiculous an idea that was and let's set more realistic goals. Instead she said, without batting an eye. "Well you're going to need a pair of running shoes!"

 

In addition to the physical training, I wrote poetry on the road to Boston. In the first poem I wrote, "Running the Race", in February of 2007, I had no idea why I was focusing on winning a 10K race.

That poem foreshadowed my Boston Marathon run. Poetry fueled my training erasing doubts and fears and firing up my imagination visualizing race day. It strengthened my faith and conviction that all the pain from childhood trauma and paralytic polio would be transformed into passion and purpose. My message of healing, hope and possibilities inspired so many including many polio survivors who believed that they were destined for a downhill course as a result of having contracted polio in their younger years. 

 

There are many valid research studies that demonstrate the healing power of visualization and the mind/body connection. They are absolutely fascinating. Dr. David R. Hamilton shares these in his books, blogs and his FREE weekly newsletter, Better You, Backed by Science. Dr. Ellen J. Langer has been a Professor in Psychology at Harvard for over 40 years. Her books and studies continue to astound and amaze one with the impact of perception and environment on one's experience along with the power of mind/body unity. One of my favorite books by Dr. Langer is Counter Clockwise. I've compiled a list of resources for well-being on my website. What a joy to discover that there's science to support what I've experienced on this miraculous journey of transformation. 

 

After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, I felt like the caterpillar in the cocoon sure that my life was coming to an end. And, just like that caterpillar, I emerged from my cocoon to fly free living the life that I was always meant to live.

 

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. 

 

"Meet Mary McManus — our first-ever Music Saved Me Story Contest winner.
We asked you to share the stories of the songs, the albums, and the moments when music reached in and changed everything. You delivered. And one story stopped us in our tracks. We are thrilled to announce that Mary McManus is the winner of the first-ever Music Saved Me Story Contest. Mary’s journey is one for the ages. She contracted paralytic polio at age five. She survived years of childhood trauma. And then, at the height of an award-winning career as a VA social worker, she was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome and told to prepare to spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair.

Music — and the healing power of words — had other plans for Mary.
Through poetry, perseverance, and an unshakeable belief in what’s possible, Mary transformed her life. At 53 she became a runner. At 55 she crossed the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon. That is what music can do." 

 

Mary will be the guest on an upcoming exclusive episode of the "Music Saved Me" podcast.

 I was recently 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.

 

 

 

Just For The Health Of It!

 

In May of 2007, at my last physical therapy session with Allison LaMarre-Poole, she handed me my home exercise program. She said, "You're going to keep doing these right? You don't ever want to go back to where you were do you?" She was referencing my deconditioned state when I was first referred to her in January of 2007. Fortunately she did not subscribe to the if you use it, you will lose it as was true of most providers treating polio survivors. She believed in the body's tremendous capacity to heal. Her words have stayed with me all these years.

 

After working with Allison, I hired a personal trainer in October. When I first got moving with Janine, I had the lofty goal of running the 2009 Boston Marathon. I had to take time off from running after the marathon and spent several months in physical therapy before returning to the roads. I kept moving forward hearing Allison's words echo in my ears. After a serious knee injury in December of 2014 and having been told to stop running or cap my distance at a 5K preparing for a total knee replacement in a few years, I went on to run 3 Bermuda Half Marathons in 2016, 2017 and 2018. I took time off from racing but continued on my health and fitness journey with cross training, lots of swimming and still getting out on the roads to get in my miles. 

 

I had a major setback in 2021 after an adverse reaction to the 2nd COVID vaccine but soldiered on as best as I could dealing with neuromuscular symptoms that limited my running and workouts. By 2023, I was ready for my comeback.  For my 70th birthday I trained for the Bermuda Marathon Weekend 10K. Despite a DNF in Bermuda,  on 5/4/24, I conquered the distance again. Since June of last year, Tom and I embarked on a rigorous training cycle for the Hyannis 10K. I felt unbridled joy and exhilaration when I ran 7.2 miles for my 72nd birthday. The last several weeks of training were in bitter cold, snow and ice. To avoid a major snowstorm, we did two, 4 mile runs in less than a week. I embraced taper time. The Blizzard of 2026 cancelled Hyannis but Tom and I did our own race at the 5K distance given the terrible road conditions.

 

Once again, it's time to strength train and run just for the health of it. Tom and I are playing around with our training schedule based on weather and what our bodies are letting us know what we need. On Monday, we had so much fun with our strength training work out. 

 

As I get ready to celebrate 19 years since I took that leap of faith leaving behind my award-winning social work career at the VA, Tom and I reflected on those early days of my journey. It was everything shared in this quote from Kellie MacPherson.

 

Tuesday and Wednesday were rest days with lots of foam rolling, stretching and taking breaks from sitting to breathe in fresh air and walk around. With Spring in the air, Tom and I decided to get out for a runchie on Thursday. Before we went out, I set the intention that my right knee is healed and I was going to enjoy the time we spent unplugged out in Nature soaking up serenity and eagerly anticipating Spring. I used visualization and conscious movement before, during and after our runchie miles. 

 

The sun melted the bit of chill in the air. I love the childlike joy of rediscovering Springtime especially after the winter we had. 

 

Every day in every way my body is recovering from our recent training cycle and the joy of running has returned as the pain and strain diminishes. After our trip to NYC on April 21st, Tom and I will do a virtual 3.2 for 32 to honor the memories of those who died at Virginia Tech on April 16, 2007. That's the only goal we have on the calendar for now. And for now, we are working out and running just for the health of it. I celebrating 20 years of healing in December of 2006. I will never go back to where I was as we age strong enjoying life one mile at a time.

 

In health and wellness - Mary

Visit my ***NEW*** 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. 

 I was recently 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.