Book Review-North: Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail

 

I met Scott Jurek at the 2024 Boston Run Show. I was moved to share my story with him. He said while he loves runners who break records (of course Scott being one of the greatest runners of all time), the sport needs stories of inspiration like mine. He told me his mother lived with MS so he understood the effects of a neuromuscular condition. What a thrill to see Scott again at the Boston Outdoor Expo in April. He is gracious, humble and kind. When I asked him if we could take a photo together, he said, "Let's do it with your book." I emailed Scott with info about my latest book after the Run Show and when I heard he would be speaking at the Expo. He had 'warned' me at  the Boston Run Show he wasn't very good with email but as soon as he saw me and gave me a hug he said, "I owe you an email but then I knew I'd be seeing you here at the Expo."

 After hearing him speak on two occasions and having these warm and wonderful conversations with Scott, I dusted off my copy of "North:Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail." Even though I knew that he had achieved his goal of beating the previous FKT (fastest known time) for the AT (Appalachian Trail), I found myself holding my breath at times wondering how is he possibly going to do it.

This thrilling memoir lays bare the soul of Scott Jurek who is known as  a living legend renowned for his speed and endurance. "North" also lays bare the intimate details of his relationship with his strong, resilient, determined, no-nonsense (read as no BS) wife, Jenny. I loved how the memoir is written in each of their voices. We are treated to experiencing the views from Scott on the trail and Jenny as support crew in their make shift home away from home while Scott chased the FKT on the AT.

The vulnerability shared by Jenny and Scott and the way they talk about their relationship moved me to tears and goosebumps. The harrowing experiences left me gasping and wondering, did he make it out alive which of course I knew the answer to since I'd just been with Scott at the Boston Outdoor Expo.

Scott's mind, body and soul are wrung out on the pages of his journey along the Appalachian Trail. His resilience and coming back stronger than ever to achieve the goal he set out to accomplish sent chills up my spine. The soul lessons he learned are profound; lessons we can all learn when we set out to challenge ourselves way outside of our comfort zone. Jenny faces her own health challenges after a life threatening miscarriage, and manages what's happening with her body while crewing for Scott with grace, grit and determination. As happens on the roads/trails and in life, just when we think we can't take another step, we are able to dig deep and keep moving forward most often because of the angels that are there just when we need them most. Scott refers to them as trail angels. The strength of Scott and Jenny's relationship endures today as they raise two beautiful children. 

The trajectory of Scott and Jenny's life as individuals and as a couple was transformed by their experiences while Scott set the record for the FKT on the Appalachian Trail. My life has been inspired by reading "North:Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail" and being blessed to connect with Scott in person and on the pages of his memoir!

 

Available on Amazon

 

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story. My interview with the amazing On the Runs podcast team of Erika Hamel and Eric Knuuttunen is Episode 56. Be sure to subscribe and download on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to their YouTube channel.

Proud to BU is a podcast highlighting the illustrious achievements of Boston University Alumni. Here is the link to my episode.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

"A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior is now available.  Book Release Party 6/3  7-8pm at Livite Brookline in Washington Square Brookline

The Boston Outdoor Expo - Day 2

Before the doors even opened to the second day of The Boston Outdoor Expo, the energy was electric fueled by the very presence of Rudy Reyes who was set to the take the Inspiration Stage to set the tone for an amazing day!

After the traditional queue giveaway, the Ambassadors for the Expo gathered for the ribbon cutting ceremony. I spotted Scott Jurek who said, before I could remind him of who I was and our meeting at The Boston Run Show, "I owe you an email!" I wrote to him about the upcoming release of my 7th book and asked if he would write a review. I presented him with an Author Copy and in true fan girling fashion tripped over my words saying, "Well if you get a chance to read it..." "Of course I'll read it," Scott replied.

 

After the ribbon cutting ceremony, I walked with Scott into the Expo and asked him for a photo. He said, "Of course. Let's take it with the book." He asked USA Marketing Director Chloe Hyland to take the photo which she eagerly and graciously agreed to take.

CEO of Raccoon Media Group Mike Seaman passed by and said, "Oh I see you're hanging with my buddy Scott." He gave me a big smile and a hug.

I headed to the Inspiration Stage where Dave Fatula was welcoming everybody to Day 2 of the Expo before introducing Rudy Reyes. He lit up the Convention Center with his infectious energy while also sharing his powerful and poignant story. Dave was a wonderful facilitator drawing out the highlights of Rudy's experiences and work both past and present. We were treated to an impromptu sharing of the YouTube video about the organization he founded, Force Blue Team that helps vets help the planet. I had goosebumps all over when Rudy shared how the organization brings in kids from Gold Star Families into the program. With warmth, wit, grit, vulnerability and honesty, Rudy captured the hearts of all in attendance.

Rudy took time to answer questions and to do a meet greet posing for photos, answering questions and offering support and guidance to the vets and their spouses in attendance. What a privilege and honor it was for me to take the photos and be privy to these tender conversations.

One of the themes for The Boston Outdoor Expo weekend was about the importance of representation. When we don't see someone like ourselves in an activity, we are hesitant to venture out and stake our claim to participate. But Kimber Cross would not let a limb difference stop her from becoming an adaptive ice climber and mountaineer. With her clear eyes and strong voice, she shared her journey with a combination of humility, humor and passion. Her motto is "I Can't. I Will. I Did." She reminded us that this cycle is not a once and done but can repeat as we challenge ourselves with different endeavors.

What a blessing to meet her, take photos for the meet and greet and share my journey. I told her that after a particularly challenging training run on the road to the 2009 Boston Marathon, my personal trainer told me to google Wilma Rudolph. I found my role model and strength to take on the Boston Marathon after reading her story. We talked about what a blessing she is to the children she teaches; how their lessons go far beyond learning the ABC's and extend to learning about life! 

I walked around the Expo after feeling incredibly inspired by Rudy and Kimber. The Boston Outdoor Expo promised over 120 brands, features and inspirational speakers all under one roof. They delivered! Two of my highlights were meeting Dan Minnich, founder of Waypoint Adventure. I started following them on Instagram after hearing about them from the Expo promos. Dan's passion for inclusion was evident as he shared his why for starting Waypoint Adventure. As one who has lived with different ability, I know how vital it is to provide opportunities for exploration of the great outdoors. What a great connection!

The Boston Harbor Islands had a booth depicting the natural beauty of the Islands. They are offering free ferry service the weekend of May 18-19 to Spectacle Island where I ran my first trail race several years ago. I am so excited to return there this year and take advantage of the great outdoors that is practically in my backyard. 

It was time to return to the Inspiration Stage for Scott Jurek. Although described as a living legend, Scott will be the first to say that he does not think of himself as a celebrity! He was quite surprised when somebody recognized him in an airport while he was wearing a mask. Dave and Scott engaged in a conversation that was quite different than having Scott talk about his previous achievements. Scott talked about how the everyday person can make their own adventure in a way that challenges the individual. He is emphatic that testing fortitude leads to transformation and developing confidence. He encouraged us all to keep our fire lit and fuel our passion.

Scott believes it is vital for us to feel alive like a kid when we plan our adventures from urban adventuring to more daring adventures that extend to over nights. He often gets asked "what's next for Scott Jurek?" He off-handedly said that he still has a few speed records in him. His eyes sparkled when he said how much joy he experiences being a sighted guide for runners. 

What an incredible way to end two days of inspiration, exploration, education, meeting up with old friends and making new connections. Scott's comment about feeling as though he's not a celebrity gave me pause. I wrote to him in a follow up thank you email, all of us who are out there spreading powerful messages of possibility, living by example and creating change in the world are celebrities in our own right! 

Thank you The Boston Outdoor Expo for a wonder filled weekend. Until next Spring when you join with The Boston Run Show for what is sure to be an epic weekend!

 

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story. My interview with the amazing On the Runs podcast team of Erika Hamel and Eric Knuuttunen is Episode 56. Be sure to subscribe and download on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to their YouTube channel.

Proud to BU is a podcast highlighting the illustrious achievements of Boston University Alumni. Here is the link to my episode.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

***COMING MAY 25, 2024***  "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" Book Release Party 6/3  7-8pm at Livite Brookline in Washington Square

The Boston Outdoor Expo - Day 1

Raccoon Media Events Inaugural Boston Outdoor Expo Show came into Boston with an incredible line up of speakers, vendors and features to get everyone excited to get outdoors and get moving at whatever pace in whatever way that suits the individual. As an Ambassador, I experienced the excitement up close and personal beginning with queue giveaways.
 

 The excitement in the foyer at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center was palpable as Ambassadors handed out swag and welcomed visitors to the show.

As I walked toward the Inspiration Stage, I was ecstatic to have the opportunity to meet Mike Seaman, CEO of Raccoon Media Group. I presented him with an author copy of my book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior." He was gracious and kind to write a review after reading my manuscript and to pose for photos:

Dave Fatula was host, moderator, speaker and exhibitor for the Expo. After welcoming everyone to the Expo, he introduced the first speaker, Sir Ranulph Fiennes. The audience was enthralled and captivated by his photos and narrative of his daring explorations. My favorite quote from his talk was, "Don't go through your problems, find a way to go around them and Lady Luck will find you from time to time. When she does, make sure you take advantage of it!"

 

 

I walked through the Expo where attendees were playing pickleball, being taught survival skills, trying out bikes and balance boards, exploring tents and vans, practicing yoga, sampling foods and attending talks at the Hiking Stage and the Inspiration Stage.

Before heading back to the Inspiration Stage, I helped out attendees at the Colorado Ski Shop bike ride feature.

Next up on the Inspiration Stage was Andrea Bailey of Evolving Mind and Body. Her topic? Ruck It: Healing with Movement in Nature. I had the opportunity to chat with Andrea at her booth. How wonderful to connect with a like-hearted soul. She was vulnerable, warm, witty and conveyed information in a way that lay people could understand. She is a licensed mental health counselor who combines her counseling skills with passion for the great outdoors knowing the healing power of nature. She is also a certified Reiki Master.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I ended my day with hearing the panel "Women In the Outdoors: Sharing Perspectives." Paige Emerson, Meg Stewart, Arwen Turner and Sarah LaCourse spoke on a range of topics from the challenges of being a plus size hiker, lack of representation and compassion for different body types and abilities on the trails, to the benefits of being out in nature that everyone should have access to regardless of size or ability. I was especially moved by Meg Stewart's perspective that when we are out in nature and tracking trees, the eye movements are the same as in EMDR therapy used to treat trauma. The panelists were vulnerable, strong, articulate and spoke to the unique challenges women face when hiking. They also shared tips for feminine hygiene and safety.

Such an exciting, inspiring and invigorating day of Day 1 at the Boston Outdoor Expo.

To be continued...

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story. My interview with the amazing On the Runs podcast team of Erika Hamel and Eric Knuuttunen is Episode 56. Be sure to subscribe and download on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to their YouTube channel.

Proud to BU is a podcast highlighting the illustrious achievements of Boston University Alumni. Here is the link to my episode.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

***COMING MAY 25, 2024***  "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" Book Release Party 6/3  7-8pm at Livite Brookline in Washington Square

Feels Like -- There's No Such Thing as Bad Weather!

Last Thursday, Team McManus went out for a runchie (a run over Tom's lunch hour.) I had to psych myself up to get out the door knowing that the temps were in the 30's and there was a wind advisory. It felt like 17 degrees. The wind chill was fierce but we endured. It was one of those boy these miles sure hurt. I have a goal of another 10K this year either virtual or in person and know how mental training is an integral part of physical training. If we waited for perfect weather or if we waited for perfect circumstances in life, we would never get anything done. I love how running is a metaphor for life.

One of the biggest benefits of the pandemic was that we had to go outside and run. As you all recall, there was no access to gyms. We embraced the great outdoors and loved the sense of adventure that came with finding new running routes. That sense of adventure has stayed with us although I must confess, it is tempting to go indoors when the wind chill stings.

You can see how the wind pulled the water. We debated whether or not we should go down Beacon Street where the buildings may have blocked the wind. With the effort it would have taken for us to change our route and to probably need to endure the head wind anyway, we could finish our run. That's exactly what we did. Tom commented that he didn't know many 70+ year olds who would be outside braving the elements on a day like last Thursday. It's especially amazing for me to be out on a cold day. One of the hallmark symptoms of Post-Polio Syndrome is cold intolerance. The 'thermostat' to regulate body temperature was damaged as a result of the initial polio virus. I harnessed the power of the mind/body connection to rewire the circuitry. Training for the Boston Marathon during the bitter New England cold winter of 2008/2009, helped to heal the breach in my nervous system.

I am over the moon excited to be an Ambassador for The Boston Outdoor Expo. One of the speakers on the Inspiration Stage is Sir Ranulph Fiennes. Ranulph Fiennes is a British adventurer and novelist that is best known today for his various exploits around the world. He is especially hailed for being the first man to cross the Antarctica from one side to the other [via the pole] on foot.

 

I learned about The Boston Outdoor Expo from the organizers of The Boston Run Show after having been an Ambassador. My daughter Ruth Anne teased me about the Outdoor Expo pointing out that we are not great outdoors people. I was quick to point out that in fact, as runners, we are great outdoors people. The Expo is going to present us with an incredible opportunity to expand our experiences by learning about new activities and exploring new challenges.

It would have been so easy to head indoors to a track when the wind chill felt like .. last Thursday. Instead we layered up and got in our miles feeling vibrant and invigorated after the run was done. There is a lot of research about how going out in cold weather slows down the aging process and has health benefits far beyond the exercise itself. There really is no such thing as bad weather; only a bad attitude and inappropriate clothing.

In health and wellness,
Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

Thank you to Mike Reilly for featuring my story on Stories From the Finish Line Sponsored by CURAD Performance Series to inspire others.

Be sure to subscribe to the On The Runs podcast for stories of individuals who are fierce and determined to overcome challenges, set goals and crush them. Here is the link to my Episode 56.

Be sure to subscribe to their new YouTube Channel to enhance your podcast listening experience!

Be sure to download and subscribe to the AdaptX podcast. Here's the link to my wonderful conversation with host Brendan Aylward sharing my journey of transformation and healing in the wake of polio, Post-Polio syndrome and trauma.

A Runner's High Continued - The Boston Run Show - Day 2

Michael Seaman had a vision, a dream for an event where runners could come together whatever their pace or distance. One day his wife encouraged him to stop talking about it and do something about it. You can hear the back story of The Boston Run Show on Episode 89 of the On the Runs Podcast. 

Tom and Ruth Anne joined me for the start of Day 2. They were treated as VIP's! The excitement of the crowd waiting to enter to hear Michael Johnson's fireside chat filled the air. The Raccoon Media Group team were feverishly handing out swag to the queue. I asked if they needed help. With a big sigh of relief, Chloe said, "Yes please!" I filled up a box with non-alcoholic Sam Adams Beer, t-shirts, hats and cooling towels and worked the line. Prior to the ribbon cutting ceremony, David Hellard asked trivia questions for the gift giveaway.

After the ribbon cutting ceremony, much of the crowd made their way to the Marathon and Road Stage to hear Kelly Roberts moderate a fireside chat with 4 time Gold Medalist Michael Johnson. It was standing room only. Tom, Ruth Anne and I enjoyed seeing our friends at the FlavaNaturals booth:

 

Alan was ecstatic with being a part of the Show and plans to return next year. "The audience is exactly who we want to reach for our product," Alan said. They asked questions and were engaged with the information he provided about his proprietary product.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ruth Anne and I took photos with the Boston Marathon trophy:

We reminisced about our 2009 Boston Marathon run. While we may not have brought home 'the' trophy, Team McManus felt like champions for taking on the challenge and raising $10,535 for Spaulding Rehab Hospital.

Ruth Anne had course work to finish. We were about to say goodbye but she decided to stay a little longer. Seemingly out of nowhere, we saw our dear friend Suzanne Showstack Adams.

"I knew I was going to see you," Suzanne said. 

"I felt the same way." We knew that we were each Ambassadors. Suzanne was with her dad Bruce. We tightly hugged and expressed our deepest condolences on the loss of Bonnie, Suzanne's mom and Bruce's beloved wife. We were blessed to know Bonnie when we were part of the Spaulding Race for Rehab Team. Our eyes filled with tears as Suzanne shared Bruce's why for running the Boston Marathon this year for Spaulding. Here's a link to his fundraising page. We posed for a 'team reunion' photo:

After more conversation overflowing with love and support, we hugged so long. Tom and Ruth Anne went on their way and I made my way to the cafe to recharge after an exciting start to the day!

Eric and Erika, co-hosts of the 'pod' made their way to the cafe. What a thrill to finally meet in 3-D and enjoy the Show with them. We met up with another member of the pod fam known as Mr. 305NoMore whose incredible journey of transformation can be heard on Episode 45. We met with the Team from Racoon Media who arranged to have Mike on the pod exploring possibilities for next year's show!

I connected with David Whelan on LinkedIn when I saw he would be taking the stage Sunday afternoon to present on "Feed What You Want to Grow." What an incredible inspiration! I took notes feeling in awe of his miraculous journey.

Prior to David taking the stage, I had a delightful encounter with Kelly Roberts and Laura Green. 

"You know," I said to Laura Green. "You and I have something in common. We were each guests on the On the Runs podcast." Kelly took a photo of us:

As you can see from the smiles on the faces in the crowd, Laura's talk on "My lifelong quest to be friends with Des Linden" was a perfect way to end the Boston Run Show weekend.

Congratulations to Mike and the outstanding crew of Raccoon Media Group for an exceptional experience. 

I experienced a post-event let down after all the magic from the weekend. Fortunately, I received a post-event survey that included a link to get tickets to the Boston Outdoor Expo happening in Boston on 4/27 and 4/28. See you there!

From my heart to yours

In health and wellness,
Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

Thank you to Mike Reilly for featuring my story on Stories From the Finish Line Sponsored by CURAD Performance Series to inspire others.

Be sure to subscribe to the On The Runs podcast for stories of individuals who are fierce and determined to overcome challenges, set goals and crush them. Here is the link to my Episode 56.

Be sure to subscribe to their new YouTube Channel to enhance your podcast listening experience!

Be sure to download and subscribe to the AdaptX podcast. Here's the link to my wonderful conversation with host Brendan Aylward sharing my journey of transformation and healing in the wake of polio, Post-Polio syndrome and trauma.