Adventures in NYC - Part 2 - What Are The Odds?

                                                                                                 When I woke up last Saturday morning I felt like a kid at Christmas. I was going to see "Hamilton" for the 2nd time from Row B, Center Orchestra. When I bought the tickets, I had no idea that Christopher Jackson was going to reprise his role as General George Washington. I'd been listening to different episodes of The Hamilcast in the weeks leading up to our trip. I connected with Lexi Garcia Toye on Instagram after hearing her incredible Hamilton journey. She is on tour. I was planning to send her a photo of Tom and me in front of the marquee. A joy shared is a joy multiplied. Little did I know how much joy we would be sharing Saturday night. Tom and I debated about how we should organize our day. Go to Junior's for a pre-theater lunch and then take our photos at the Rodgers OR go to the Rodgers first and then grab a bite to eat. We decided to take our photos first since I was so excited and eager to get to the theater. 

I read "Life at Hamilton" by Mike Anthony in May of 2022 and connected with Mike on social media. I listened to his episodes on The Hamilcast. After getting our tickets in May, I sent him a FB message since he was posting about Hamilton happenings. I reminded him of the book review I wrote for his book, "Love, Dad..How my father died and told me he didn't," and shared with him the life changing experience I had at Hamilton in April. I let him know we were planning to return in September. He responded with: "Hello, Mary!!! Thank you so much for taking the time to do this!!!🥰🥰🥰
I’m so glad you made it to the show, and that it had the impact it did. If you do come back in September, I hope to see you there!" A week before the show, Mike had posted about a 9 year old girl who was sobbing at the show saying how much she loves the show and how important it is to hold onto those kinds of moments. I commented on his post and asked if he'd be at the 9/19 matinee. We all know how quickly social media can move and how easy it is to miss a comment. He didn't respond. 

With "Life at Hamilton" in hand and a bottle of water to keep us hydrated as we walked to the theater, Tom and I headed to the Rodgers. Before we left, I'd asked Tom if he should bring a sweater. Once we got to the street, he realized it was cooler than he thought so he went back to the room to get one. I patiently waited downstairs. I felt as though I could have skipped to the theater.

We took our photos:

 

                            

Tom was inspired to place the "Life at Hamilton" book and our water at the stage door. Just as I was about to take the photo, we heard, "You better hope nobody comes out of that door." I got flustered and said, "Oh I'll hurry up." (See photo above that's a bit blurry because I took it so quickly.) He laughed. "No don't worry about it," he said. "You here to see the show?" "Yes we are and we are so excited." "How many times have you seen it?" "2," I replied. "You here for the matinee?" "Yes," I answered and we are planning to get a bite at Junior's. In one swift movement, he took out his key card, unlocked the stage door and said, "Follow me."

The next thing we knew we were going backstage! 

                                                                                          Jimmy Russell, aka Stage Door Jimmy, called out from his office, "Hey why is she shaking?" Our escort said, "Don't worry about it Jimmy. They are with me. They are my cousins from Boston." {Tom was wearing his Red Sox hat.} Our escort told me to watch myself on the stairs. He said that he was going to take us on a backstage tour and take photos of us on the stage. We learned that his name is Bobby and he operates the turntables from his perch "way up there," as he explained it. Through a google search, I found out that his full name is  Bobby Hentze. He serves as the Automation Operator for the production at the Richard Rodgers Theatre. From his console located up on the fly floor, he precisely controls the show's complex dual-revolving stage system, managing the speed and directions of the concentric rings that bring the musical's choreography to life. He said we could take whatever photos and videos we would like and share them. "We love doing this," he said and talked about how they will spot different people at the stage door, usually children and invite them to come backstage.

He didn't ask me about my tremors which had gotten noticeably intense given the emotions I was feeling but I shared with him my journey with polio and Post-Polio Syndrome. "You are quite remarkable," he said. He took us to the wardrobe and prop room. We were so in awe of what we were seeing that we didn't take photos of the wardrobe and prop room but here are the photos Bobby and Tom took:

 

We talked as though we had been lifelong friends about all things Hamilton and our lives. He showed us the wardrobe and prop room as our jaws were wide open in awe of seeing this glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes.

 "Well," Bobby said. "We better get you over to Junior's." As I navigated the steep and narrow stairs, Bobby would make suggestions of where I could hold on and kept reminding me to be careful. "Let me walk out with you. I'll show you the alley to get to Junior's." We kept expressing our deepest heartfelt gratitude as we walked. "We love doing this," he said. "This is what Hamilton is all about!" 

"Now. There is going to be a long line when you get back to the theater around noon. I don't want you to have to stand in line. So just go up to whoever is at the front of the line and explain your condition. If there's any problem, just tell them Bobby told you to let them know you shouldn't have to wait in line." We hugged as we said a tear filled goodbye and grabbed a quick bite at Junior's.

Just as Bobby predicted, there was a long queue of theater goers eager to get into the theater. We approached security and told them that Bobby suggested we let them know that I have a neurological condition and should not have to stand in line. "Oh we know Bobby. He's been here awhile. Well it's too early to go in but ..." he swung open the theater doors and opened up a folding chair for me to sit in while we waited for the doors to open! 

Since we were among the first to enter the lobby, I was able to ask one of the people selling merch if Mike Anthony was working. "Gee I don't know. Where does he work?" "He's the bar manager," I replied. "Well the bar is over there." My heart skipped a beat when I saw Mike Anthony in 3D.

I introduced myself. "I'm so sorry I didn't answer you on Facebook," Mike said. "Oh don't worry about it," I replied. This just adds to the magic of it all. I told him that because we took the photo with his book we met Bobby and got to go back stage! He was so happy for me. I asked him if he would sign my book. He took out a sharpie from his drawer, stepped to the side, signed it. "Come see me at intermission," he said as he handed it back to me. I was seeing "Life at Hamilton" in action!

                                                                                         Yo Yo Yo what time is it? Showtime! IYKYK

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. 

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.

                                                                                  

 

What Gives Me Hope!

 

In the wake of last week's election, what gives me hope? I have trust that we can meet any moment when we harness all the power within us as individuals and collectively. 

I saw this post on Reasons to be Cheerful Instagram page: We believe the collective impact of practical problem-solving is greater than any one person’s power. That why our election coverage hits a little different, and why, a few weeks ago, we asked you to answer an open-ended question:

No matter who wins, ___________________. Visit their Instagram page to read a beautiful poem that is the compilation of responses. 

After the election they posted,  Yes, it matters who wins.
But maybe what matters even more is how millions of people, on any given day, choose to live, work, fight and advocate for positive change. Maybe the cumulative effect of countless individuals, striving to improve the world around them, is larger than any decision made from behind a big wooden desk.

What gives me hope is what my friend Eliza posted on Facebook:

Although the outcome of the election was clearly not as many of us hoped for, Kamala Harris started a powerful movement in a very short time that I believe will gain momentum in the coming weeks, months and years to come. I have hope not based on how many seats are red or blue in Congress but by the outpouring of amazing energy at her rallies and rallies on her behalf all across the Nation. I have hope because of the people around me who are hopeful and optimistic despite all appearances right now; people who refuse to relinquish dreams and a vision for what's possible.

Science has proven time and again that we are powerful creators. I know this from my own journey. Just because something has not manifested in the now does not mean that it will not happen or that something even greater may emerge as a result of what got set in motion during the few months leading up to election day.

What gives me hope is this quote from Margaret Mead:

 Back in September, I saw a post from Lee Woodruff. She was a guest on the Optimism Institute's Blue Sky podcast. I was drawn to it like a magnet although I didn't seem to have the time to get to listening to it and reaching out to the podcast about being a guest until two weeks ago. Everything in Divine Timing. I listened to Lee's interview. I followed Blue Sky on Instagram and it was just what I needed to get through pre and post-election stress. 

I listened to Bill's latest episode and heard his guest share her definition of optimism. Yesterday morning I woke up at 5:30am with a knot in my stomach. A rather common occurrence since last Wednesday. I began my meditation as I do every morning in the quiet hours usually before anyone else gets up to clear my energy and set my intention for the day. I was so surprised when a poem flowed through me:

Optimism is a Way of Being

Optimism a way of being
buoyed by hope
beam from the lighthouse
quells fears
piercing darkness of current appearances
life raft keeping us afloat in troubled waters
Worrying makes us weary
sapping strength
din drowns out possibilities
What ifs what ifs
swirling thoughts in a riptide of doom
What if the tide turns
Tethered together
joining hands and hearts
like minded travelers
Inner compass to guide
Journey together
weathering storms
anchored in truth
drawing strength
Right is might
riding waves of uncertainty
Unwavering in love
swells of kindness and care
holding on to each other
navigating our way until the rainbow appears 

It was inspired by Simon Sinek’s quote  “Optimism is different than positive - and it's definitely not naive. Optimism is the belief that the future is positive, that there's a light at the end of the tunnel and we're heading there, together.”

 

In the coming days, weeks months and if need be years, you will find me harping on hope as I wrote about in this poem from Hope is a Garden: Poems and Essays From the Pandemic:

Harping on Hope

Symphony of positivity
playful joyful
Harping on hope
harbingers of hope
seek and you will find

Darkness and despair disperse
divisions derisions cease
Tuning to Universe’s harmony
vibrations of Love
Lovely images dancing
seeing with Third Eye
Foretelling vibrant scenes
a world healed

Rejoicing
uplifting voices
Joining as One
We rise!

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, where you can find my incredibly inspirational story and upcoming events.

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  My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is receiving rave reviews and is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club.

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

Serendipity and Synchronicity Flowing Across the Pond

One of my favorite persons, Dr. David Hamilton often comments on or likes Michelle Townsend's posts on LinkedIn. Michelle lives in the UK near London and David lives in Scotland. She has gone to hear him speak and has posted that "How Your Mind Can Heal Your Body" is a book that influenced her healing journey. In his book, 'Why Woo Woo Works," David talks about a web in the Universe that can draw people together. Have you ever thought of a person you haven't thought about for awhile and hear from them "out of the blue" or experience chance meetings that inexplicably blossom into something more? You get the idea then. 

I enjoyed Michelle's posts that fill LinkedIn and Facebook with uplifting and inspiring quotes and messages in a beautiful setting for the text, and she enjoyed mine.

After I posted my blog, "Faith is Like Wi-Fi", Michelle shared that there was powerful synchronicity in my blog.

 

 

 

It inspired her to write her blog, "Writer's Block - Letting Go to Flow."

 

 

 

 

 

In very short order, we discovered a friendship was blooming across the Pond. We supported each other's writing endeavors and I was inspired to ask Michelle if she would have the time and desire to read my manuscript, writing an editorial review.

After Michelle read the manuscript, she sent me a tender-hearted email giving me feedback from the viewpoint of the reader. She said that the book is amazing and she understood if I didn't want to incorporate her feedback into a revised manuscript, but felt that it was important for her to send me the feedback. She felt a nudge from the Universe to share it. 

Her suggestions were spot on and it was easy for me to make the edits based on her feedback. I ordered another proof of my book, made sure that it read well with the edits and then, was finally able to hit the publish button.

Here is her review:

"Such an empowering book of transformation! “Into the Light” takes us on an amazing journey with an ‘attitude of gratitude’. A journey traveling through the pandemic, Mary shares her motivational, inspirational state of appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. She cultivated the power of gratitude through the difficulties highlighted during the pandemic following her healing from Post-Polio Syndrome, finding ways of maintaining Runnergirl along with husband Tom, and daughter Ruth Anne.

Mary finds herself navigating her beliefs and decisions, using her mind body connection to help regarding the vaccine after the memories of contracting paralytic Polio during the last polio epidemics in the United States. 

 

Mary’s wonderful words that flow through her journaling and poetry bring emotions forward with powerful guidance and appreciation, using the pandemic as a great force for transformation and growth, encouraging us to our own place of self-reflection." ~Michelle Townsend C.Hyp, D.Hyp, C.I.H, UKHR, I.H.A, CNHC Registered. Professional/Clinical Hypnotherapist. Founder of ‘Harmony Life Balance’ 

 

Coincidentally, as Michelle talked about in her blog, she is writing a book and was wrestling with her book title. One day, while out on a run, a possible book title for HER book came to me. She shopped it around with friends and family and they loved it. She then mentioned another phrase to me that she plans to use in an upcoming blog and I suggested she incorporate that into the title. No spoiler alerts here but I can tell you Michelle has an incredible healing journey that needs to be shared with the world and will be next year.

A few months ago, I did not even know who Michelle Townsend was. We are now dear friends, champions of each other's creative endeavors, feeling goosebumps all over as synchronicity and serendipity flow across the Pond.

 

From my heart to yours,
In health and wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at https://marymcmanus.com to learn about my journey to health and wellness in the wake of paralytic polio and trauma

Visit the News and Events tab to listen to my inspiring and uplifting interviews

My books to motivate, uplift and inspire you with a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

 

 

 

 

On Intentionality and Synchronicity

 

  

"What do you want to do after your run?" I asked Ruth Anne when she called me during the cool down portion of her 4 Mile Race Pace intervals training run.

"Well it's too nice to go stretch in the pool as we planned. How about the beach? Or maybe breakfast out? No let's have breakfast and debated whether to 'hang out' at home or get some vitamin sea. We know how short summers are in New England so decided to head to the beach.

While I was fixing breakfast, I announced to Ruth Anne and Tom: It's a great day to have a great day. I am setting my intention for 1. Tom you are getting your offer letter today for full time employment. 2. Ruth Anne there's gonna be a lot happening with your fundraising campaign today and 3. Something is going to happen with your job finding journey. I felt so happy knowing that all of this would come to pass and so grateful for all of the blessings in our lives.

Tom called me over after I  set this intention and showed me his offer letter!

He got busy taking care of the onboarding process and transitioning from contract work to perm employee at the job where he has been for 8 months with great people doing what he loves.

Intention #1 - check!

Ruth Anne and I had to decide where to go to the beach. When I got to South Boston I said, "okay, where to?" and we opted for this small stretch of beach between M Street and Castle Island. There was one woman playing with her two dogs in the ocean but there was no one else on the beach on this end of summer sizzling hot day.

I read a wonderful fiction book, "Nora Goes Off Script" and what a delicious treat to have time to go off line and just veg with a good read. Ruth Anne spread out her beach towel and took a nap. Getting up at 6am and doing Half Marathon training and fundraising is exhausting. 

We went for a walk to the water but there were too many rocks between us and the water. We wondered about going to another beach where we'd be able to wade into the water.

"It's so peaceful here and there's no one here so why don't we just stay?"

I agreed with Ruth Anne.

We sat and chatted noticing it was getting close to lunch time. Tom said we should go out for a girls' lunch and go back to the beach but Ruth Anne and I didn't feel quite right doing that.

"Let's text dad and tell him we'll bring home lunch."

We saw two men coming close to shore in a kayak. One of them let out a squeal of delight as he dove into the ocean off of the kayak shouting, "I highly recommend it."

They brought the kayak to shore. As we walked to our car we heard, 'Behind you.' 

In retrospect that was odd because there was a wide stretch of beach without anyone else on the beach but there they were right behind us.

I looked down at the kayak. 

"We went out to Spectacle Island."

"Wow," I said.

"It's really beautiful out there. You should go!"

"I've been," I said. "I did my first trail race out there. I'd never done a trail race before."

The other person said from behind their vehicle, "I did that race."

 "He looks and sounds familiar. Do we know him?" Ruth Anne asked me. "I think I heard him call him Paul."

I agreed that he looked and sounded so familiar.

"I know. He really does."

Without thinking or missing a beat I said, "Excuse me. Is your friend's name Paul?"

"That's my son," he said, "and yes his name is Paul."

"Paul Epstein," Ruth Anne shouted. 

"Yes, from BHS," his dad said. "Go say hello."

"Hi Paul, It's Ruth Anne McManus." She took off her sunglasses and he said, "Oh my goodness I didn't recognize you with the sunglasses on." He embraced her in a big hug. 

"I used to come into your office all the time asking for Red Sox tickets." Paul is a social worker at Brookline High School. His brother Theo Epstein was the manager of the Red Sox when they won the pennant. 

"Did I come through?" Paul asked.

"No." Ruth Anne answered.

"Well..it's never too late," Paul said with a warm smile.

I nudged Ruth Anne but she was way ahead of me telling him about her fundraising campaign. She shared her health crisis journey with him. His compassion was palpable as he told her to send him an email with all of the information and he will do whatever he can to support her events. I cried as she recounted the journey feeling so blessed and grateful that we are here now. He said, "So that's why you want to pay it forward and help others."

As we parted ways he said, "So I am going to look for that email from you! Take care."

I received an email from a friend saying that she was delighted to hear from me and would absolutely support Ruth Anne's fundraiser for Victory Programs. There was a friend's Facebook post about the number of deaths due to overdose in Massachusetts during the last decade. I used it as a way to talk about the life saving work of Victory Programs and share the fundraising link. Another donation flowed in with many more to follow to be sure.

Fundraising intention - check!

Now this last intention took a very interesting turn orchestrated by the Universe. Ruth Anne has been discerning what next steps she wants to take in this next season of her life. She has worked in different roles and explored many different options. She feels a strong pull to being able to make a difference in people's lives and while she is doing so in a big way with her fundraising campaign for Victory Programs, she wants to have a direct impact in people's lives. She interviewed for one role and knew she could grow into the role but continued to have this sense that she needs a boost with more education. She has looked at many different programs and took two courses at the Masters Level at Boston College in Leadership and Administration. She loves learning! Just as we came to the conclusion that there was not a program out there that would not require her to take out more student loans, especially since there is going to be debt relief for her current loans or one that would bring her a good ROI, she found a Certificate in Human Services program at Mass Bay Community College. The people she spoke with were kind and helpful guiding her to what she needs to do to start classes next week. 

Intention for job finding journey - check!

Yesterday was a magical and miraculous day. When I woke up this morning, the gratitude in my heart overflowed with tears streaming down my face and stress releasing from my body.

From my heart to yours,
In health and wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at https://marymcmanus.com to learn about my journey to health and wellness in the wake of paralytic polio and trauma

Visit the News and Events tab to listen to my inspiring and uplifting interviews

My books to motivate, uplift and inspire you are available on Amazon

Pandemic Silver Linings

I've known challenges from an early age. At 5 years old I contracted paralytic polio in one of the last epidemics in the United States. Seeing what is happening with COVID, I now believe I was one of the 'breakthrough' cases since I had received 5 vaccines and there was no indication mine was one of the 'bad batches' that happened from a lack of quality control in 1959. I endured years of abuse at the hands of family members from the age of 8 until my father ended his life at the age of 17. Those challenges turned out to be the greatest gifts in my life informing the woman I am today.

At the age of 53, the gift of polio kept on giving as I was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards. I experienced a joyous journey of transformation after the diagnosis.

The lessons learned and wisdom garnered throughout those challenges held me in good stead during the COVID pandemic. We looked beyond fear and grief to find the silver linings; the treasures of the experience that will stay with us moving forward in our lives.

Since gyms were closed, we couldn't swim or use cardio equipment. We went outside for runs and walks. There was only one day that the weather prevented us from getting outside. We knew how vital it was to exercise and get plenty of fresh air and sunshine regardless of the weather. Running or walking 3-4 times/week with extra mini walks in between around the neighborhood built strength. Rather than breathing in air with the smell of chlorine, we breathed in fresh air and took into our hearts and souls the change over of the seasons.

Tom worked from home and not having a commute, albeit a short one, gave us time to be together, prepare wonderful meals or do take out enjoying leisurely meals together. Breakfast was unhurried and we were able to do early morning or noon time runs together.

I missed having treatments with my chiropractor who took an extended maternity leave during COVID, but I was able to tap into my body's tremendous capacity to heal from the late effects of polio and trauma connecting to the Divine in deeper ways. I savored that first treatment with her with intense gratitude.

Our meditation practice strengthened in depth and frequency.

We have a deep appreciation for our home and our yard. For the first time, we planted a flower garden. Every time I looked at that little plot of ground, it was a reminder of hope and faith. What excitement I felt as the little sprouts poked through the once frozen earth

 

 and then bloomed into magnificent tulips.

We planted our tomato seedlings and marigolds in the raised bed we built last year:

We had an incredible harvest last year that we shared with neighbors with masks and social distancing. We developed a greater sense of community in our neighborhood sharing in the somber mood of last year to find ways to uplift each other while keeping apart. This year that connection remains and is transformed into joy and hugs.

We were all challenged to allow our true selves shine through beyond clothes, makeup and hair styles. We were called upon to use humor and ingenuity when it came to our hair. We had many wonderful belly laughs as we attempted to style each other's hair. What an incredible treat to go to the salon after 14 months; an experience I will never again take for granted!

If it weren't for the pandemic, I am not sure how motivated we all would have been to get out the vote as we did. Whatever your politics may be, the truth is our democracy was threatened and incompetence at the highest levels of government were exposed by the pandemic. The power of the vote and 'we the people' was a silver lining that shined through the shroud of darkness hovering over our nation.

As time goes on, I am sure other silver linings of the pandemic will become apparent to me and to us as a global community.  

These past 14 months have tested our mettle while offering gifts and treasures that will forever be a part of the tapestry of our lives.

Here's to healing, hope and infinite possibilities of a transformed world.

Be sure to tune into Dreamvisions 7 Radio to hear my conversation with Bernie Siegel, MD on his show Mind Health Matters May 20 and 21st, May 27th and 28th at 12:00am and 12:00pm ET. We talk about my newest book, my journey as a survivor of paralytic polio and trauma, healing, hope and possibilities and how my relationship with Bernie helped me on my journey of transformation since the 1980's.

From my heart to yours
In health and wellness
Mary

For more information about my journey from childhood polio and trauma to the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and beyond, visit my website.

"Hope is a Garden:Poems and Essays From the 2020 Pandemic" along with all of my books to inspire and uplift you is available on Amazon.