The Boston Outdoor Expo - Day 1

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

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

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

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

 

 

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

To be continued...

In health and wellness,

Mary

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

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

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

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

The Magic of Marathon Monday!

 

Ever since Team McManus ran the 2009 Boston Marathon, we have felt the incredible magic of the Unicorn on Marathon Monday. We spent more time at the Expo this year than we had in previous years which fueled our excitement to cheer on the runners. Being a part of the On the Runs podcast family, texting with Kim Sutton (who I met at the LA Marathon), and our new friends the Power family all added to the thrill of Marathon Monday. I woke up without the alarm on Monday feeling that excitement of race day even though I wasn't running. Tom and Ruth Anne were also eager to get our spot on the corner of Dean Road and Beacon Street. We meditated, had breakfast, packed our food for the day and headed to Dean Road. When we started to unpack the car, we realized that in all of the excitement, we forgot the cooler. Fortunately there was plenty of time for Tom to drive home to get it while Ruth Anne and I set up camp for the day.

I checked in with Barbra with whom we had a magical moment on Friday before we went to the Expo. They were set up at Cleveland Circle. She texted me a photo. One of the Brookline Firefighters who was part of security 'just happened' to have been one of Ruth Anne's camp counselors. The other first responders teased him about how old he was that one of his campers was all grown up!

It wasn't long before the lead male wheelchair runner came along. To no one's surprise, it was Marcel Hug who went on to win!

After the excitement of seeing the first participant come through, the crowd quiets until the next lead vehicle approaches. Coming through was Eden Rainbow-Cooper who went on to win the women's wheelchair division.

While waiting for the male lead runner to come through, I was getting pumped by watching live videos from my friends, the hosts of the On the Runs podcast at Mile 19.

{I have only videos of the men's and women's leaders.}

The lead male runner came through and we wondered what happened to the rest of the pack. We watched the race on WCVB TV on Tom's iPhone. There was a moment of a challenge from 2nd place winner Mohammed Esa but Sisay Lemma broke the tape.

The lead women's pack was well - packed! It was a race to the finish with Helen Obiri claiming victory for the 2nd year in a row. We have videos of Ruth Anne screaming, wishing Sarah Hall Happy Birthday as she ran by and screaming to Emma Bates how much we love her. The crowd, as always, went wild for Desi Linden.

It was time to settle back and track our friends hoping to see them as they approached the last 5K+ of their amazing journey from Hopkinton to Boston.

I texted with Kim whose husband Tim was having a great day to make sure that the tracker was working (unlike what happened at the LA Marathon). She said it certainly was; she had a perfect spectator spot in front of the newly opened Dick's Sporting Goods store. I told her that I hoped I would see Tim and if I did would send her a text.

Tom had a wonderful time cheering on the runners with #morecowbell wearing his L Street Running Club t-shirt that was made after 4-15-13 reminding us that we run as one and are Boston Strong.

Although Tim didn't see us because he was in the zone, he looked amazing coming down Beacon Street. Right after he passed, I let Kim know he was on his way to see his biggest fan.

I was blessed to see Jared Ewing looking so strong as he came down Beacon Street. He was too fast for me to get a photo but he acknowledged our cheers for him by blowing us a kiss. 

How lucky was I to get to meet a real live Unicorn:

 

 

 

You must listen to Yuki Chorney's episode on the On the Runs podcast. She is truly a magical being who spreads glitter, light, love and the magic of the Unicorn wherever she goes.

We cheered on Charity Runners, asked runners who were cramped if we could share pretzels or water with them and, at times, because of the heat, called out for medical attention. The volunteers were phenomenal! They would kneel down to apply Biofreeze and massage out cramped muscles, ran to bring water to runners and were vigilant about spotting runners in distress encouraging them to come into the medical tent. 

Tom spotted Amby Burfoot. He called out his name and in typical Amby nonchalant fashion, he gave Tom a wave acknowledging the shout out. Tom asked the spectators around us if they knew who Amby was.

We continued to track our runners and 'watch' them finish their incredible races. Breanna Power had an amazing day. Her mom texted me a photo of her coming into Cleveland Circle surprised by a friend from Connecticut who had come in to cheer her on. Kim texted me a photo and video of Tim's phenomenal finish. He ran another BQ IN BOSTON! 

We thought that John Young may have 'called it' given the heat of the day. At Mile 23 he posted an update on Facebook that he was still on the course determined to finish!

To cap off a magical Marathon Monday, I received an alert from my tracking app:

What a magnificent way to top off a most magical Boston Marathon Weekend 2024. To experience more of the magic of Marathon Weekend, watch the On the Runs Episode 104.

I often wonder what my life would look like if I would have succumbed to the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006 or if I would even be alive today. My heart overflows with gratitude that I get to be a part of this vibrant, inspiring, fun loving and health and wellness conscious community. I have made friends that I otherwise would not have met and experienced places in wondrous ways as a most unlikely runner.

Until next year Boston! Thank you for the magic and the memories!

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

Unicorn Magic Continues!

 

I love how we let Spirit guide us throughout Boston Marathon weekend. Tom took the afternoon off from work so we could enjoy the Expo together. I initially suggested we take the train in but Tom suggested we drive in. He was going to drop us off and look for a parking space. I suggested we give Newbury Street a try since we had good fortune there on Wednesday.  Sure enough as we turned the corner from Comm. Ave., there was a parking space just waiting for us. Tom wanted to walk down Boylston Street 'the long way' to soak up the energy that Ruth Anne and I enjoyed on Thursday. As we walked the few short blocks to the Expo, we saw Susan Hurley. She is a warrior on and off the roads and was genuinely happy to see us and take a photo with us. When we told her we pray for her health she said, "I'm fine. Really I'm fine."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 In the morning, the texts and messages lit up my phone. Michele Audet and I have been planning a meet up for years. We met each other as part of the Boston Strong Community. We exchanged phone numbers and agreed we would find a way to meet up at the Expo.

Just as we turned the corner to head into the Expo, who came walking out of the ladies room but Michele Audet.

She had just finished her volunteer assignment at bib pick up. She mentioned that unlike in previous years, there were no snacks and limited food for the volunteers. We suggested that we go to the FlavaNaturals booth where she could get a boost with their amazing product. 

 

It was wonderful to see our dear friends Alan and Shari Frost who are the creators and owners of FlavaNaturals.

Michele, Ruth Anne, Tom and I chatted while soaking up the energy of all that is Boston Marathon. There was a Navy Warrior Challenge Booth that Ruth Anne just had to try. Michele captured Ruth Anne's joy in a series of photos. Here is one of them:

We secured great seats to see Meb on the Marathon Live Stage and listened to the panel of Women in the World of Running. Michele had worked for John Hancock, the previous sponsor of the Marathon and gave us the back story of one of the women on the panel who now recruits for the BAA. I messaged with my friends/On the Runs podcast family Candice and Jared. Candice and Jared 'met' through the On the Runs podcast and were coincidentally on the same flight to Tokyo. What a wonderful Boston reunion for them and what a blessing for me to meet them in person. Of course we included Michele when it came to taking a photo. Candice has been diagnosed with breast cancer and will be toeing the starting line of her marathon of healing on Monday. With her positivity, grace, grit and determination, I just know she is going to conquer this challenge.

We were enthralled with having the opportunity to hear Meb speak about his journey. As he spoke his gentle, kind, humble, and warm personality shined through. At times, he expressed a wonderful sense of humor. He said that he loves interacting with fellow runners of all abilities and always wants to take time for photos and to sign autographs. "It's never a bother," he told the crowd. When he recounted his 2014 Boston win, you could feel the collective sense of goosebumps and tears. He took time for people to ask questions. Ruth Anne asked about his pre-race rituals. He said how they are very important and shared with us how he fuels the night before (spaghetti and meatballs with red sauce or chicken and rice) and at breakfast (a traditional bread, oatmeal, almond butter) and that prayer - before, during and after a race is a vital part of his rituals. 

Even though a meet and greet line was forming, Meb graciously and generously took selfies with Michele and Ruth Anne. I was moved when he put his hand on Ruth Anne's shoulder and gave her a pat on the back.

Our hearts were full as we left the Expo expressing gratitude for a day filled with spontaneity, synchronicity, friendships and inspiration. Michele had to catch her train but Tom, Ruth Anne and I decided to go to Legal Seafood in Chestnut Hill. Our dear friend whom we hadn't seen all winter was there. Big hugs and lots of love along with an incredible dinner was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

To be continued...

In health and wellness,

Mary

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

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

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

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

Let the Magic of the Unicorn Begin!

 

This year marks the 15th anniversary of when Team McManus ran the 2009 Boston Marathon and raised $10,535 for Spaulding Rehab. It was a moment of redemption for me in the wake of the devastating diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006. 

After Ruth Anne finished a project for her Masters Certificate in Corporate Communications and Marketing at BC, she suggested we go to South Boston for a walk along the beach. When we got to Boylston Street, Ruth Anne said, "Why don't we park. I'd love to walk around and see the Marathon happenings."

There were "No Parking" signs everywhere but we were able to manifest a parking space right around the corner from the Hynes Convention Center where the Expo will be held!

Our first stop was at Mother Juice, an indie owned shop that makes smoothies, Acai bowls and delicious healthy, nutritious snacks. We bought their blueberry muffin and energy bites to take home and Ruth Anne enjoyed the Green Dream. We took photos feeling the thrill and exhilaration of the energy that IS the Boston Marathon.

We remembered how incredible we felt taking that right on Hereford knowing the finish line would soon come into view.

Unlike 2009, there are now three blue lines to follow.

The BAA 5K will be taking place on Saturday. There were also No Stopping and No Parking signs in the area surrounding Copley Square from Thursday through next Tuesday. We are so fortunate to have a wonderful public transportation system to get in and out of town this weekend and to have manifested a parking spot on Wednesday.

We felt the thrill of taking that turn onto Boylston Street on 4/20/2009.

The Hynes Convention Center is ready to receive thousands of runners and spectators beginning on Friday!

 

What a magical moment to see this photo of Marathon Panda aka Maurice Lowman who is running for the Herren Project. You can hear his incredibly inspirational journey on the On the Runs Podcast Episode 63.

 

 

 

Boston is in full bloom on Boylston Street!

Bleachers are up and ready!

The magical mystical mythical symbol of the Boston Marathon - the Unicorn!

Ruth Anne: (Gently tugs at my arm) "Come on mom. We've got to go into Marathon Sports. It's our Boston Marathon Tradition."
Me: "Sure okay!"
Me observing woman stacking cowbells in her arms
"Excuse me. May I ask who you are buying those for?"
Woman: "Sure it's for my team. I work for a biomedical company that helps trauma victims with our product. There's a runner who benefited from our product and we're here to cheer him on. He's amazing. He just ran Tokyo."
Me: "Um is that Jared?"
She was as shocked as we were. "How do you know him?"

Ruth Anne shared that Jared and I were each guests on the On the Runs podcast. She had no idea he had been on the podcast. I mentioned that we'd not yet met in person but were planning a meet up during the weekend. We chatted about Jared's medical miracle thanks to the product made by her company! Alicia had one of the Marathon Sports staff take our photo. We all said what a blessing it was to meet! Listen to Jared's On the Runs Podcast Episode 88.  We each texted Jared about the amazing synchronicity that brought us together in that moment at Marathon Sports. Jared texted back, "Omg that is incredible! The good vibes are syncing up."

Let the magic of the Unicorn begin!

In health and wellness,

Mary

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

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

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

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

The First Leg of the 10K Challenge - Back to the Sea!

 

"All of us have in our veins the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and, therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea - whether it is to sail or to watch it - we are going back from where we came." ~John F. Kennedy

Last Saturday I completed the first leg of the Gone for a Run Virtual Run Series 10K Challenge.

There was a strong head wind but having the expanse of the sea as we ran along the shore line in South Boston distracted me from the extra challenge from the head wind. I've always been an 'ocean' kind of gal. One of my favorite places to run is in South Boston. 

 

 

 

 

One training run in South Boston inspired this poem from the soon to be released, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior":

Set Yourself Free

Running in tandem with waves
as seagulls soar
seeing Divine's creations
sun sparkles
sprinkling white caps dotting deep blue
steady breath  
scent of briny air
sounds of water lapping shore
surrounded by beauty.

Stress dissolves
each footstep bids farewell to troubles
joy bubbles from the depths
Divine Love
heart overflows
refreshment for mind and body.

Once shackled
unbridled from unfathomable past
wounds healed
wind whispers
“Run my child
set yourself free”
I am found. 

Here are spectacular scenes from last Saturday's run:

What can I embrace as possible? When I first set out on my quest to heal my life, I had no idea what was possible. I imagined becoming a NY Times Bestselling Author being on Oprah to talk about taking a leap of faith to follow my newfound bliss as a poet and writer but did I know that the poem "Running the Race", the first poem I wrote, would foreshadow my 2009 Boston Marathon run and I would become a beacon of hope for others who may be facing a devastating diagnosis and prognosis? I had no idea when I took a leap of faith on 5/25/2007 leaving behind my award-winning career as a VA social worker with the intention to 'heal my life' where it would lead.

On Saturday, I was lead back to the sea and had a fabulous 5K; the first virtual race in the 10K Challenge. Ruth Anne paced me to negative splits. I felt incredible joy to feel the wind on my face and soak up the energy from the sea surrounding us. It is not lost on me that over 17 years ago I was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and faced a grim and uncertain future. What a blessing and how grateful am I to feel free in my body running by the sea that nourishes me mind, body and soul!

In health and wellness,

Mary

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

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

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

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

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

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

Running My Own Race!

 

  

 

I was able to only go 3.06 miles at the 2024 Bermuda 10K. I was proud that I had the courage to start after a series of challenges shortly before race weekend including contracting COVID.  I was amazed that I tackled the first five hills being on pace to finish before the 2:30 time limit before I experienced cramps and spasms. I knew that I had to cross a 10K finish line this year. I searched for races that were my pace friendly. When I couldn't find an in- person event for this year, I decided to do the Gone for a Run Virtual 10K Challenge! 

While I love the thrill of in-person events, what matters most to me is being able to challenge myself and continue to move forward in my health and wellness journey! 

After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006, I faced a positively grim future. In February of 2007, after asking for Divine Guidance, the poem, "Running the Race" flowed out of me. Although I sat in a toe-up leg brace 

 

 and had never run a day in my life, running was a powerful metaphor  for my life. Acceptance and gratitude set me on a healing path. "Running the Race" foreshadowed my 2009 Boston Marathon run.

Running the Race  

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.

And now I set the pace....

 

While it would have been absolutely amazing to cross that finish line in Bermuda and wear my bling, it was not meant to be. What IS meant to be is that I train over the next several months doing a 5K, an 8K and then on August 3rd, cross the finish line of my virtual 10K feeling accomplished that I've dared to go the distance once more!

I feel so blessed and grateful for all that my body continues to give me! May 25th marks 17 years since I took a leap of faith leaving behind my award-winning social work career to "heal my life." At the time I had absolutely no idea what that meant. I did know that I would be running my race/my life in a new way healing my traumatic past through the power of forgiveness and gratitude AND creating a future very different than the one Western Medicine predicted for me! 

I am so thrilled to be running my own virtual race with Gone for a Run feeling the joy in the journey on the road to another 10K.

 

In health and wellness,

Mary

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reflections on the Los Angeles Marathon Weekend - As Though Everything is a Miracle!

I prefer to live my life as though everything is a miracle. Ruth Anne and I experienced magnificent magic and miracles during our Los Angeles Marathon Weekend adventure. I shared many of them with you in the two previous blog posts. There is another miracle to share. As my regular blog readers know, I was diagnosed with a progressive neuromuscular disease in December of 2006. I was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline as I aged. Last Christmas I celebrated my 70th birthday!

When Ruth Anne wanted to book a trip to run the LA Marathon, we were wondering how my body would fare with the 6 hour plane ride, the time change and all the walking involved when one is support crew for a marathoner. The magic and joy of meeting a nurse who worked with Joe Stetz, my beloved camp counselor who was an earth angel in my life after I contracted paralytic polio, infused my body with feel good chemicals. I pulled my carry on luggage up a ramp at the LA airport and hoisted it onto the shuttle bus stepping up and down a big step with ease.

Despite the time change, Ruth Anne and I transferred over to LA time eating dinner at 5 although we did go to sleep at 7pm after a very long day of travel and excitement! We waited to unpack until the morning. After a good night's sleep, I unpacked and organized the room in anticipation for race day. While Ruth Anne went to practice yoga in Santa Monica, I walked up and down the Avenue of the Stars scoping out where the stop was for the shuttle buses to the start and to the finish line. I walked around the Mall, had lunch and Ruth Anne and I  returned to the Mall when she returned to get her lunch.

When we arrived at Dodger Stadium, the cab driver wasn't able to drive us to Gate G, the site of Expo and Bib Pick Up. We walked up hills and down hills and down a staircase until we finally arrived at Bib pick up and the Expo. There were a few raindrops followed by a torrential downpour. We found shelter in the Volunteer Tent. Once the downpour passed, we called for an Uber only to discover that we would have to hike up a huge hill to get to the upper parking lot since cars were not allowed at Gate G. 

Ruth Anne kept asking me, "Are you okay? How are you doing mom?" All that training for the Bermuda 10K held me in good stead while trekking up that enormous hill. 

Ruth Anne needed to get off of her feet for her marathon on Sunday and I had done 13,300 steps for the day. Our feet and clothing were soaked and it was 6pm. Rather than walk again to the Mall we took hot showers and got comfortable while we ordered in room dining that I must say was the most exquisite chicken and salmon dishes we have ever enjoyed!

Saturday was a feet up by the pool day but we also did a shake out walk for Ruth Anne to see the finish line and the shuttle bus stop to the start. We socialized with fellow runners and made sure to use plenty of sunblock so we wouldn't go into Marathon day with a sunburn! We walked to Eataly at the mall for our carbo loading. 

It was a miracle that I was able to wake up at 3:45am on Marathon Day! I was ready to greet the day full of energy and vitality. I walked Ruth Anne to get the shuttle to the start, organized our room, had a quick bite for breakfast at Lumiere and headed to the finish line. I sat on the bleachers able to stand up and sit down with ease to cheer on runners. I walked down the bleacher stairs using the handrail on the right navigating around the crowd, walked back to the hotel, back to the finish line, back to the hotel and met Ruth Anne halfway between the finish line and the hotel. We walked to the Mall to get Ruth Anne a smoothie and have a light bite. We walked back to the hotel, took showers and walked around the Mall to decide where to have our celebratory dinner. The Mall is a two-level 1,300,000 square feet outdoor mall!

You can imagine how well we slept on Sunday night!

On Monday, we swam and packed up getting ready for our return flight on Tuesday. 

Yesterday we went out for a 5K despite the rain!

 It was smiles for miles for Team McManus as we continue to celebrate the magic and miracles in our lives. I expressed deep gratitude to my body for all it has and continues to give me. I was in awe of my resilience, strength and endurance during the Los Angeles Marathon Weekend. Coincidentally, runners of the LA Marathon support the McCourt Foundation whose mission it is build a healthier world. They support research for ALS, MS and Alzheimers. 

What a blessing to be able to fully participate in an amazing adventure with Ruth Anne. The more I challenge myself and move beyond a once devastating diagnosis, the more I am blessed to experience everything as a miracle!

 

In health and wellness,
Mary

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

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

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

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

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

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