Reflections on Strength

 

 

                             
After Thursday's before breakfast strength training sesh with my bestie Tom, I felt really strong. I felt the benefits of the new exercises we have added to our workout. Cranking up the playlist (and the a/c) fueled the surge of strength I felt. While feeling strong at the age of 72+ years old is a wonderful feat, it is especially amazing for THIS 72+ year old. 20 years this December marks the anniversary of when I was given the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome. I was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged. I started reflecting on physical, mental and spiritual strength. 

My first challenge in my life happened when I was only 5 1/2 years old. I contracted paralytic polio. I was initially paralyzed from the neck down. To compound the challenge, my mother was addicted to prescription pain medication and unable to care for me. During the acute phase of the virus, I had an out of body experience. Despite being unable to move, a "hand" was extended to me inviting me to step into a well bucket. I was reeled up to meet this Being with only a head and a long flowing beard. I decided to return to my physical body having this sense that no matter what happened to me, I would be able to make it through. 

I was blessed with Miss Holly and Dr. Moskowitz; physical therapist and rehab medicine physician who specialized in the care and treatment of those who had contracted the polio virus. She was an earth angel whose compassion, care and being a healer ahead of her time coaxing withered muscles and nerves back to health. I felt her strength and intention for me to heal; I was able to come out of my ankle to hip left leg brace after a year. I used her strength to fuel my determination to get stronger.

I summoned all of my mental and spiritual strength to endure years of abuse at the hands of family members who were alcoholic and addicted to one substance or another. I had a constant pipeline of prayer to the Divine. I became high school valedictorian harnessing my intellectual prowess while dissociating mind from body to survive the terrors of my childhood and adolescence. Attending Boston University one month after my father's death by suicide when I was 17 years old required incredible strength as did asking for help from the BU Counseling Center. 

After receiving an MSW from Boston College, I went on to have an award-winning social work career at the Boston VA Outpatient Clinic. All those years of ignoring my body and soul's needs finally caught up with me when, in December of 2006, I was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome. 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. After going through the initial phases of anger, depression, anxiety, feeling helpless and hopeless, I did what I had always done when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. I got still and asked for Divine Guidance.

When the poem, "Running the Race" in the cadence of Dr. Seuss flowed out of me I was at once delighted and surprised that this was the answer to my prayer. Miss Holly read Dr. Seuss to me before every painful physical therapy session. As she ministered to me in the treatment room, she had me recite back to her in tandem whatever Dr. Seuss book I chose to distract me from the painful treatments! The portal to healing opened wide with tapping into the gift of poetry in my soul.  Allison Lamarre-Poole, another earth angel physical therapist came into my life who did not subscribe to what Western Medicine believed about Post-Polio Syndrome that if you use it you will lose it! I knew that I was at a crossroads in my life. I dug really deep to find the strength to take a leap of faith leaving behind a steady paycheck, benefits and a career that no longer served me mind, body and soul.

While I found the strength to move in a new direction in my life, the Universe had my back at every turn. And what a turn my life took when a personal trainer came into my life in October of 2007. I asked her if she thought I could get a little stronger building on the outpatient rehab program that Allison gave me after I was discharged from her care. In February of 2008, my personal trainer asked me for my next goals. "I want to feel free in my body. I want to come out of my leg brace. I really want to diversify my workouts, maybe get back to dance since I took ballet before I contracted paralytic polio." She wrote down my goals and gathered up her things. She had her hand on the door knob when I said, "Wait. I have one more goal." "What's that?" she asked. "I want to run the Boston Marathon next year for Spaulding Rehab. I hear they have a Race for Rehab team." Now there were many responses she could have made such as, "Don't you think you need a more modest goal? You have never run a day in your life." Instead she said, "Well you are going to need a pair of running shoes."

I wrote poetry and called forth all of my physical, mental and spiritual strength to train for and cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon, the race that "Running the Race" foreshadowed in February of 2008.

                                                                               As I am editing my 8th book, "Running the Race: From Atrophy to Astonishing," I am in awe of my strength, resilience and determination to draw strength from all that I have experienced; to make every day a celebration of life and to age strong and well.

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.

 

 

Running the Race

 

In October of 2006, I sat on the exam table at the Post-Polio Clinic feeling as fragile as the sheet of paper that's torn off between patients. My pallor matched its color as the hum of the fluorescent lights echoed the buzzing of my anxiety. I had experienced worsening symptoms for 10 years when I realized enough was enough. The limp from polio returned, I was in constant pain, experiencing chronic fatigue, depression and anxiety. Since Post-Polio Syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion, I underwent extensive testing to rule out any other causes for the symptoms. In December of 2006, the diagnosis was made. 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. But what's a social worker to do? I was at the height of my award-winning career as a VA social worker getting ready to retire in 3 years. 

In February of 2007, knowing I was at a crossroads in my life, I did what I'd done when I faced seemingly insurmountable challenges in my life. I got still and asked for Divine Guidance. It was a cold dark evening that seemed to mirror the dark night of my mind, body and soul. I had articles I printed out from the "new age" teachers (who in truth were sharing ancient wisdom) spread out on my dining room table. There was a prompt from Lisa Nichols newsletter that said, "I am so happy and grateful now that I can create..." "Whoa," I thought to myself. "Happy? Grateful? Create?" As I queried the Universe, I grabbed my laptop. My fingers almost magically flew across the keyboard as the poem, "Running the Race" poured forth from my heart and soul.

Early summer 1959 my kindergarten year
everyone around me filled with nervous fear.
Despite the Salk vaccine hope polio would disappear
the polio virus crept right up and knocked me in the rear.

Dancing all around the gym feeling free just like a bird
I dropped to the ground just like a stone and no one said a word.
The pain it was so searing-the diagnosis even worse
"It's polio" the doctor said...he was abrupt and terse.

Called one of the 'lucky ones' I had a 'mild case'
but with the other athletes I could never keep their pace.
Miss Holly physical therapist, curly hair and a warm, broad smile
it tempered the pain of being apart - to walk I'd take a while.

I always wore those 'special' shoes the kids they poked and teased                                                     
with no support and much abuse with childhood I wasn’t pleased.                                                       
But put nose to the grindstone and learned all that I could
I couldn't kick a ball but my grades were always good.

Years went by and no more thought to polio did I give
I accepted the limp, everything else and decided my life I would live.
But symptoms of weakness and muscle pain did grow
I kept a stoic face hoping no one else would know.

Life no longer was my own I struggled through each day
suffered in silence, alone and afraid tried to keep depression at bay.
And with the grace of glorious God my world it opened wide
I discovered there was a Post-Polio team and they were on my side.                                            

Sought out paths for healing and my spirit flew free
for the first time in life, I could truly be me.
The chains are gone and possibilities abound
I'm a tree with my roots planted firmly in ground.

Using wheelchair to travel, set limits on what I could do
resulted in joy to realize I could live life anew.
Celebrated my body-creaks, groans and need for a brace
while in my mind I focused on winning a 10K race.

I'm now off the sidelines, no need to sit and whine
so much gratitude fills my heart and love and beauty shine.
After all these years I can join the loving human race
I exceed all expectations and now I set the pace.

Winning a 10K race? Why am I focusing on winning a race when I had never run a day in my life, was called “Easy Out Alper” (my maiden name) in gym class, and have this diagnosis and prognosis telling me to expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged? I am sitting here in a toe-up leg brace, using a cane and at times a wheelchair for mobility. As poetry flowed from my mind, heart and soul to the page, I viewed my past of having contracted paralytic polio followed by enduring years of abuse at the hands of family members, through the lens of gratitude, and forgiveness and began healing my mind/body connection through beautiful metaphors.  

On 5/25, I will be celebrating the 19th anniversary of when I walked out of the Boston VA Medical Center for the last time. I had no idea what the future held for me or if I had a future. But as Abraham Lincoln once said, "The best way to predict the future is to create it." I was creating a future very different in my mind's eye from the one Western Medicine predicted for me. I saw myself as running free in my body, feeling healthy, whole and healed. I did not however, see running the 2009 Boston Marathon in my future. That happened in February of 2008 when my personal trainer asked me what my next health and fitness goals were. I'd been discharged in May of 2007 from outpatient physical therapy with an earth angel who did not subscribe to Western Medicine's belief that I was destined for a life in a wheelchair. In October of 2007, the Universe brought me together with Janine Hightower, an in-home personal trainer. After 6 months of working together she asked me what my next goals were. I'd accomplished so much in a short period of time being able to get off of a toilet seat independently, no longer use a tub chair in the shower and being able to pass the initial fitness assessment test. I told her I wanted to come out of my toe-up leg brace; maybe take a dance class as I loved ballet before contracting paralytic polio. I wanted to diversify my work outs. She wrote down my goals, gathered up her things and had her hand on the door knob.

"Wait...I have one more goal."

"What's that?" she asked.

"I want to run the 2009 Boston Marathon next year for Spaulding Rehab. I hear they have a Race for Rehab Team." The words bypassed any logic or cognitive process. It came from deep inside my soul just like that poem "Running the Race." She could have very easily said to me, "Hold on there. You are still in your leg brace and you've never run a day in your life. Shouldn't we set a less ambitious goal?"

Instead, Janine said to me, "Well you're going to need a pair of running shoes!" 

On April 20, 2009, after 7 hours and 49 minutes, I crossed the finish line of the Boston Marathon having run a race that by all appearances should have been an impossible accomplishment for me. I've gone on to have many adventures as runnergirl 1953, published 7 books that chronicle my journey of life after a once devastating diagnosis and dire prognosis and wowed audiences with my powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities. 

What a gift and blessing to be celebrating 19 years of healing after finding the courage to take that leap of faith on 5/25/2007. Every day is a celebration of life. My heart overflows with gratitude and appreciation for every run and every workout. Last Saturday, despite a light rain, nothing could dampen my Spirit as Tom and I got in magnificent morning miles. The lush green was captivating as I realized how fortunate I am to be outside in Nature experiencing the change in seasons up close and personal.

 

I often shudder to think of what my life would look like had I taken the prognosis of Post-Polio Syndrome sitting down but I did not and that's what's important. My life transformed as I embraced the diagnosis as a gift and became a most unlikely runner, author, poet, blogger and motivational speaker.

And to think it all started with a poem in which I imagined myself Running the Race despite all appearances to the contrary.

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.

 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.

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

Breaking The Finisher's Tape

It wasn’t the distance we trained for and it wasn't exactly the place
but Tom and I still had a wonderful celebratory race!

Last Friday, Tom and I took a drive to South Boston to scope out how the roads and sidewalks were after the Blizzard. We had first driven along Heartbreak Hill and the Carriage Road. There was a lot of snow, slush and ice with very narrow pavement on which to run. We knew there would be many runners training for Boston out on the Hills. Although there was some snow, slush and ice in Southie to navigate, there were clear open sidewalks.  Since Hyannis Marathon Weekend was cancelled, Tom and I had our own celebration with a fabulous 5K in South Boston. Our joy, gratitude and reasons to celebrate could not be cancelled! As part of our mental training, I've shared how we visualized crossing the finish line in celebration of: Tom's 74th birthday on 3/2 and the 49th anniversary of when we met on a blind date, our 48th wedding anniversary on March 4th and 20 years of my healing after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006. Nothing could dampen the celebration.

 

Given the stress of the Blizzard of 2026 and needing to navigate around ice and snow, we opted for a celebratory 5K. Spectacular ocean views, sunshine, blue sky, comfortable temperatures despite a headwind going out and being together unplugged out in nature filled our hearts with gratitude.

 

 

When we stopped to take our selfie, a woman with a beautiful golden retriever asked us if she could take our photo. We initially declined since she was walking her dog, but she insisted. Her dog obediently sat when she told him, "sit." We love the photo she took and expressed our heartfelt gratitude to her for her kindness.

 

 We had so much fun pushing the pace while taking in the sights, scents and sounds of Nature as she gets ready for Spring in Boston. We reminisced, we laughed and at times got overwhelmed with emotion reflecting back on our life together. When we first met, Tom was working as a dishwasher to put himself through school. I worked as an administrative assistant. We had absolutely no support from our families of origin. For our Anniversary this year, I told Tom I would like a new Farberware pot and tea kettle.  During our run I shared with Tom that when we first met we didn't have a pot to pee in or a window to throw it out of. Now we have a new pot and an amazing home in Brookline that is almost paid for. We reminisced about jobs we had, places we lived (which incidentally have been within a 5 mile radius of our first apartment) and how frightening and devastating the Post-Polio Syndrome diagnosis had been. Every chance I get, I let Tom know how deeply grateful I am that he said it was a no brainer for me to take a leap of faith and leave behind a regular paycheck and benefits so I could heal. We remembered the white knuckle moments of financial stress and strain not only with my diagnosis but when he had gotten laid off from a tech company the day before he had surgery for bladder cancer. We got in touch with how blessed we are and how our strength, resilience, determination, sense of humor, and our love for one another always got us through the challenges.

 

The miles seemed to fly by especially since we were well trained for a 10K distance. For someone who was supposed to be in a wheelchair, I ran pretty fast. As we approached the 'finish line' at our car, we joined hands and raised our hands high feeling unbridled joy and exhilaration. I had often shared with Tom that I imagined Race Director Paulie Collyer and Bill Rodgers holding the finisher's tape in Hyannis as we crossed the finish line since, in all likelihood, I'd be the first 72 year old mobility impaired runner to cross the finish line. I felt as though I broke the finisher's tape on Saturday's run.

 

On the car ride to Stoked Pizzeria for post-race fueling, I looked up the Age Grading for our time. My Age-graded pace was a14:40 min/mile and that includes having to navigate slush, snow and ice on the sidewalk. After a delicious white veggie pizza, we came home and rested until it was time to get ready to go to Legal Sea Foods for a celebratory dinner. 

 

I was so ready for a Sunday rest day but on Monday it was back to before breakfast strength training.

 

What a great way to celebrate Tom's birthday and the 49th anniversary of when we met. We cranked up the playlist as we amped up the strength training now that our training cycle is over! Tom took the day off from work. We enjoyed a leisurely breakfast and time just hanging out together. We returned to Legal Sea Foods for a birthiversary (Tom''s birthday and the anniversary of when we met) lunch. Amy, the manager, who had seen us on Saturday commented that we were back so soon. We told her what we were celebrating. She wanted to give us a complimentary dessert but since Tom and I are mindful about our sugar intake, and we did indulge in New York Cheesecake on Saturday night, we declined. I told her that Tom was having an Americano for dessert and she said she would be happy to take that off our bill. It was a perfect ending to our training cycle and celebratory weekend.

 

On March 4th, we crossed the starting line of a new year of our life together. We have a New York City adventure planned in April to see Hamilton. I've been wanting to go to the West Bank Cafe which Tom D'Angora, a Facebook friend, Fanilow and incredible human now owns. I'll be crossing that off of my bucket list. We will continue to maintain our health and fitness schedule while giving ourselves time to recover from a rigorous and challenging training cycle through a brutal winter. We feel incredibly accomplished, grateful for all our bodies gave us and all we gave to our bodies throughout our training. I'm relishing in the after glow of breaking the finisher's tape celebrating 20 years of healing and a life created with my bestie and soul mate. 

 

I run with courage and heart glistening with grace
and after twenty years I am still running my own race. 

 

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.