Happy Global Wellness Day - Reflections on Sweat!

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

In health and wellness,

Mary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

Happy Global Running Day 2026!

 

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

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

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

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

But that's exactly what happened!

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

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

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

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

In health and wellness,

Mary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

 

A Celebratory 5K!

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

In health and wellness - Mary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.