Hard Days are the Best!

Eighteen years ago, on 5/25, I set out on a healing quest. In December of 2006, 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. My amazing husband told me it was a no-brainer when I was also told that if there were any hope of stabilizing the symptoms where they were that I leave my award-winning social work career with all the benefits of a regular paycheck. 

I decided that I was not going to take the diagnosis sitting down and so I sat down, got still and asked for Divine Guidance. I was in the dark night of mind, body and soul, knowing I was at a crossroads in my life. It was February of 2007. The poem, "Running the Race" flowed out of me. I was a bit confused as to why I was writing a poem about running given the prognosis I received as I sat in a toe up leg brace using a cane and at times a wheelchair for mobility. My body was deconditioned and I was in chronic pain, depressed and anxious. But that poem lit a spark of hope and healing within me! Poems began to pour out of me in which I imagined myself running, dancing in the rain without my leg brace, expressing forgiveness to those who had inflicted abuse on me, gratitude for the challenges I faced throughout childhood and the challenge I then faced with the diagnosis of a progressive neuromuscular disease.

I was blessed with earth angels of a pain management physician, physical therapist and personal trainer. My pen became my divining rod for healing and resources for healing flowed into my inbox and social media feeds. I've dedicated a page to resources for well-being on my website. I rekindled the faith I had after contracting paralytic polio and felt that the Universe was conspiring with me to guide me on my new path of healing, passion and purpose. 

When I've been waiting to be introduced as a motivational speaker, the persons making the introduction on a few occasions have asked me if I'm sure I want to include the fact that I suffered abuse at the hands of family members in my introduction. I ask if they are uncomfortable saying it because it's a big part of what makes my story so compelling. I defied the odds after contracting paralytic polio at the age of 5 and a half and enduring 9 years of abuse until my father's suicide when I was 17. 

I still have hard days but know they don't last. Last Saturday's 3.6 miler in the chilly, windy, pouring rain was really tough for me. I appreciate the easier days so much more after I've been on the struggle bus. 

Perhaps one of the gazillion reasons I LOVE running is that it's a wonderful metaphor for life. Tough days don't last but tough people do. Once I made a radical shift from victim to thriver in my thinking after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, healing was set in motion. Although I have never broken the finisher's tape at a race, and most times have finished last, I still feel like a Champion. I've navigated so many incredibly hard days throughout my 71 years, that I claim myself as the Champion of my life. I am deeply grateful I have had so many opportunities to share my journey of transformation knowing the impact I have had through interviews, my books, blog, sharing my story in others' books and feedback I receive when I've been a motivational speaker. My heart and soul are warmed when readers send me emails or messages on social media of how my books have given them hope. Early on in my healing journey, I was featured in articles in the Brookline Tab. Readers were able to leave comments. 

But I wasn't running to only reclaim my life; to move out of a mindset of disability and emotional and physical paralysis. I had a purpose that I felt and continue to feel deep in my soul. I was running to inspire others as reflected in the comments from the article:

DEAR MARY I'M SO PROUD OF YOU AND WISH YOU THE BEST OF THE BEST AT EVERY GOAL YOU ARE A GREAT WOMAN, I'M THINKING ABOUT MY LIFE IS A POST POLIO PERSON AND WISH I CAN DO THE SAME YOU DOING NOW
GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
RAUL CORNEJO

Hello Mary, i stumbled onto your story.
I had polio when i was 14 months old; 27 years after, i still struggle with the physical and 'mostly' the emotional trials that accompany polio.
I'm a doctor,so daily i encounter people with a variety of challenging conditions and i constantly draw strength from how different people embrance their unique situations.
I am particularly inspired by your unrelenting spirit, 50 years on!
I just got back from taking a long walk.
I was thinking about my life in general and saying to myself, are you just going to give in to polio without a fight?
I decided that i'll start running in the evenings to strengthen my calfs and increase my muscle bulk. During my walk, i also dealt with some emotional issues... but i digress.
I got home and got on the internet to see if there where any researched exercise routines benefical to polio survivors, i wanted to be sure running was safe.
I got a lot of info, the unianimous advice was, don't over exert yourself, complete with the medical explanations why overexertion could be harmful.
I know running may be a stretch for me, i don't know how beneficial it will be, but i know that miracles still do happen.
Polio will not hinder me anymore. I am definately gonna give it a shot.
I'll come back here to let you know my improvement.
I am very inspired by your determination and i thank you for sharing your story.
God bless you.

Hi Mary. I was listening to the radio the other night and I heard your interview. I don't know if you remember me but you took care of my husband George Murray while at the VA hospital as well as saving my life on a daily basis back then. You were truly my angel. I am so happy to have an opportunity to thank you for all you did for me back then and I have often wondered about how you were and then I heard you quite by accident as I still get up really early but the radio was on and I immediately recognized your voice. Do I think you will run this marathon, absolutely. You will do it. I am sorry you have gone through these health problems but you sound wonderful. I am going to get your book and I know I will love it. God bless you and I know he does.
Love

Maureen Murray

If you'd met Mary last year and then again today, you will be pleasantly surprised by the changes in her. She positively radiates with energy and good cheer. If exercise is how she's made the changes then I definitely want to start moving more too. It would be nice to have a follow-up after she has run her marathon.
Beth Blutt

I think it is awesome that she has been able to rebuild her strength a second time. I am encouraged now to continue exercising myself and continue to accomplish as much as I can in my golden years instead of settling for couch potato status.
Linda DuPre

Let's all keep sharing our healing stories, being grateful for the hard days and feel the joy and celebration of being a Champion of our lives!

From my heart to yours--

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 books share a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities; what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary and are available on Bookshop  My 6th book, "Into the Light:Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic" and my 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" are selections of the WBZ News Radio Book Club. "Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is also a selection Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reads for Every Runner. Be sure to visit my Author Page on Amazon for rave reviews. 

 

 

Perspective on a Rainy Day Run

 

There is a quote that says every storm runs out of rain. It was hard to believe that to be true in the Northeast during the past few weeks. It was cold, raw and rainy but one must brave the elements when one is training. You never know what the weather might be on race day. I was never afforded the luxury of being out in the rain as a child splashing in puddles and feeling that unbridled joy and freedom of being out in the elements. Still, even I, with my attitudes of optimism and gratitude was getting tired of the unrelenting gray skies and rain. I was reminded of Helen Keller's quote about pessimism and knew I needed to get a new perspective.

  I baptized my new Altra running shoes during these runs and was very impressed with how well they held up keeping my feet relatively dry. As the dreary days dragged on, I knew I needed a mood shifter on my runs. I thought about building an ark as a distraction but I wanted to find a way to be present.  In Winter, it might have been a bit more challenging to find a shift, but we are having a most glorious Spring here in New England. Big thanks to these periods of rain followed by abundant sunshine.

 

I found the most glorious purple bush and stopped to take a photo:

In December of 2006, when I was diagnosed with the progressive neuromuscular disease of Post-Polio Syndrome, I felt as though I was being drawn into the vortex of darkness; of a doom and gloom prognosis. I was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged, possibly need a feeding tube and a sleep apnea machine at night. It wasn't until February of 2007, when I got still and asked for Divine Guidance, that the light pierced the darkness that enveloped me.

I had no idea how or when the answer to my prayer would come. It came very quickly in the form of the poem, "Running the Race." The portal to healing opened wide as I fired up my imagination shifting perspective and perception of my current situation. It was quite a miraculous process. I wrote that first poem, "Running the Race" while wearing a toe-up leg brace, using a cane and at times a wheelchair for mobility. I felt no pain when I wrote poetry. I kept a yellow legal pad and pen with me at all times. I was even so bold as to start "New World Greeting Cards Customized Poetry for Every Occasion" as I began planning my Second Act and taking a leap of faith leaving behind my award-winning social work career. 

Amidst the doom and gloom of news; attempts to instill spine chilling fear in our hearts and minds, I consciously shift perspective focusing on beauty, optimism, kindness, gratitude in both my own behavior in real life, the behaviors of others and in my news feed. Is this serving my mental health and well-being is a question I frequently ask myself. Do I want to focus on the fog, the lackluster gray of the Reservoir and muddy brown puddles or the spectacular splashes of purples, pinks, whites and lush green that can just as easily draw my attention if I allow it to. Even if I do focus on the muddy brown puddles, I can feel the joy and gratitude that I am now physically able to splash in puddles.

 

The great thing about perspective is we get to choose where and what we focus on. If I would have focused on the experience of a progressive neuromuscular disease, I'm not sure I would still be here and I certainly would not be sharing the wisdom I garnered through these past 18 years of healing. If I choose to focus on doom and gloom scrolling rather than fanning the flames of hope, gratitude and optimism, I will sap myself of life's joys while also placing my health at risk. 

Here's to directing our perspective to life's beauty, joys and goodness.  As Helen Keller so eloquently said, "No pessimist ever discovered the secret of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit."

 

From my heart to yours--

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 books share a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities; what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary and are available on Bookshop  My 6th book, "Into the Light:Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic" and my 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" are selections of the WBZ News Radio Book Club. "Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is also a selection Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reads for Every Runner. Be sure to visit my Author Page on Amazon for rave reviews. 

 

 

 

 

On Mother's Day, Father's Day and Mentors

Mother's Day and Father's Day are holidays that I found difficult to navigate even after Tom and I became parents. It took me a very long time to make the shift from grief to gratitude. Every year as we now approach the celebrations of Mother's Day and Father's Day, I take time out to remember and give thanks for those who have been mentors to me throughout my life. Dr. David Hamilton crafted a gratitude meditation for one of his live sessions on his Personal Development Club that guides us to reflect on a person and reflect on reasons why we are grateful for them. The Optimism Institute's founder, Bill Burke reflected on a few of his mentors on his recent, "A Bit of Blue Sky" podcast. He was inspired, as I am by the "Arts Educators Save the World" podcast. This year, I've decided to celebrate Mother's Day and Father's Day with a blog post. As I write about these amazing people and how they helped me navigate the incredible challenges of childhood paralytic polio, years of abuse at the hands of family members who were addicted to alcohol and prescription pain medication and later Post-Polio Syndrome, a warm glow of tingles pulses through every cell in my body as I reflect on how deeply grateful I feel for the gift of the presence of these amazing individuals in my life.

 

"Miss Holly physical therapist, curly hair and a broad warm smile

it tempered the pain of being apart to walk I'd take awhile."

~Excerpt from "Running the Race" the first poem I wrote after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome

After contracting paralytic polio at the age of 5, I began rehabilitation with Dr. Eugene Moskowitz and his physical therapist, Miss Holly. Before every painful physical therapy session, she lifted me up into the red leather chair in the waiting room. The round mahogany table with a lamp had Dr. Seuss books splayed on top of it. Miss Holly asked me to choose a book. I invariably chose "The Cat In The Hat". She read it to me and told me to pay close attention. She'd help me to hop off the chair and gently escorted me into the the treatment room, removed my ankle to hip metal leg brace and applied hot woolen blankets on my leg using passive movement to coax my muscles and nerves back to health. She was a woman ahead of her time having me respond to her in tandem. "The sun did not shine it was too wet to play," your turn she'd say, "So we sat inside all that cold cold wet day." It distracted me from the intensely painful sessions and planted the seeds for how I would navigate my life after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome. Here I am 65 years later and I can still see her face and feel her gentle, kind and skillful nature to help me walk again after having been paralyzed by the polio virus.

 

After failed camp experiences that were not conducive to including all abilities in their activities, Dr. Moskowitz, referred me to Badger Sports Camp. Joe Stetz was an Olympic contender in the Butterfly and also had a heart overflowing with kindness and compassion at the tender age of 21. Through the eyes of my 10 year old self, he was tall, dark and handsome, almost god like.

 Several years ago, I reached out to Badger Day Camp letting them know how grateful I am to Joe and for the camp community that left a lasting imprint on my life. I shared with them that, because of Joe and his insistence that I could and would compete in the end of year Butterfly Olympics, I had the courage to take on and finish the 2009 Boston Marathon. There were only two other campers willing to compete in the Butterfly. He knew I had polio but would not let that deter me from competing. He asked me what fears I needed to conquer such as jumping off the starting block and worried that I wouldn't be able to go the distance. He worked with me one on one to ensure my success. He told me to not look to my left or my right but swim my own race in my own lane. When I touched the wall far behind the other two campers, he took my hand, helped me out of the pool and escorted me to the podium where I received my 3rd place plaque. We stayed in touch for several years by letters while he attended Downstate Medical School. He opted to be a doctor rather than compete in the 1964 Olympics. You can read more about Joe in this blog post and how I 'stayed in touch' with him honoring his life and legacy. 

I almost caused an international incident when I took High School French. We had to call the Bibliotheque Francaise in New York City as part of our assignment. They hung up on me when I tried to converse with them in French. But Ms. Barbara Dupres, petite in stature with a huge heart encouraged me to keep working at it. As is true with most who have experienced abuse at home, I was afraid to share anything about what I was experiencing at home but somehow she knew. My study hall period coincided with her free class period. She could have spent the time to recharge or get admin work done but instead she chose to spend that time with me one on one in her classroom during my Senior year. She got me to open up in that safe space about what I endured and what my future plans were. She counseled me. She commuted to Westchester every day to teach at Tuckahoe High School. After graduation, she invited me to meet her "in the City" to help send me off to Boston University. We met at a small cafe where she treated me to lunch and presented me with a going away present: a sewing kit. 

 

It looked similar to this one. She congratulated me with a beautiful card letting me know how proud she was that I was high school valedictorian. Why did she gift me a sewing kit you might ask? She told me that no matter what may get torn apart in life, whatever challenges we face, we always have the opportunity to mend and move forward! I lost touch with her through the years but carried that sewing kit with me until a few years ago when all the thread was used up and the case fell apart.

 

Bernie Siegel,MD or Bernie as he likes to be called became my Bonus Dad in the 1980's. I was hospitalized with a bone infection in my shoulder. My floor nurse, Beth Jordan introduced me to Bernie's work. He's been my coach in my marathon of life and healing on and off the roads. After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, I joined his Forum as I embarked on the healing journey of transformation of my life. Bernie was with me every step of every mile as I harnessed the power of the mind/body connection, writing poetry, gratitude, optimism and faith to heal the late effects of paralytic polio and trauma. I send him emails and write tribute poems on his birthday expressing my infinite gratitude for the gift of his presence in my life for the past 40 plus years. 

After a trigger injection to alleviate pain from a disc pressing on a nerve in my cervical spine, Dr. Omar ElAbd referred me to physical therapist, Allison Lamarre Poole. In the Dedication of "Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing, Hope and Possibilities" I wrote:

Allison Lamarre Poole, you refused to treat me “like a polio survivor”. It was with you that I took those first tentative and frightening steps of coming home connecting mind, body and Spirit. You helped me to find my courage to leave my career at the VA. Your words continue to echo in my ears, “You’re going to continue with your program right because you don’t ever want to go back to where you were do you?” 

 

The phrase Allison went above and beyond her role as a physical therapist pales in comparison to the care she provided for me mind, body and soul. She formulated a treatment plan to heal the breach in my mind/body connection, build a strong core and work on overall strength, flexibility and endurance. I remember the day she brought me into a room with a biofeedback machine. She demonstrated to me the stress I was experiencing in my office with typing notes, answering the phone and the poor ergonomics of my work station. We had ordered adaptive equipment through the VA which finally came on my last day! She embraced my gift of poetry. We talked about how the creative process heals. When we were at the biofeedback machine, Allison said that despite all the work we were doing together, as long as I had the stress of work especially the emotional stress of caring for veterans, their families and my colleagues, there would be a limit as to how much progress I could make in treatment. Allison followed her bliss in May of 2007 to be a traveling PT and I followed mine to heal my life. We stay in touch and follow each other's adventures. Allison is in private practice in Maine specializing in women's mid-life transition and pelvic health.  

 

I 'met' Dr. David R. Hamilton when I watched the "Heal" Documentary in 2017. I was drawn to his Scottish accent and passion for the mind/body connection through his work in the pharmaceutical industry. I followed him on Facebook. When he put out the call for stories of people who used visualization in their healing journey, I sent him an email. We became fast friends despite the physical distance between us. I joined his Personal Development Club. He has become a wonderful mentor in my life helping me to navigate COVID, Ruth Anne's health care challenges, celebrating my books and gift of poetry. He asked me to read his manuscripts. He has built an amazing community with the Personal Development Club. He exudes kindness and compassion and is willing to take a deep dive into difficult subjects in his live sessions, such as how to navigate fear and divisiveness. He is a beacon of light in my life and all who are blessed to know him. His books, blogs, on line courses and in person appearances are infused with his tag line: "Better you. Backed by science." 

While my biological parents were unable to fulfill the role as mentors in my life, the challenges I faced from an early age were equaled by the amazing people I was blessed to meet to help me thrive. I celebrate them on Mother's Day and Father's Day. But wait...there's more: "While not a widely recognized national holiday, there are several events dedicated to recognizing the importance of mentors and their impact. National Mentoring Month is celebrated in January, and specific dates within that month, like International Mentoring Day (January 17th) and Thank Your Mentor Day (January 25th), are also recognized. Additionally, there is I Am A Mentor Day on January 7th, and National Mentoring Day on October 27th."

 

From my heart to yours--

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.

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.

My books share a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities; what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary and are available on Bookshop  My 6th book, "Into the Light:Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic" and my 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" are selections of the WBZ News Radio Book Club. "Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is also a selection Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reads for Every Runner. Visit my Author Page on Amazon for rave reviews.

 

 

 

When Life Doesn't Go As Planned...

I thought I had it all figured out. In three years I would be 'eligible' to retire from my award-winning career as a Social Worker at the Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic. Including the time I spent during my internship, I would have age and time in service to be eligible to receive full retirement benefits. My plan was to do something completely different than what I had done during my past 25 years as a social worker; like work at Bloomingdale's. I smile and shudder to look back on what I was thinking. I was burned out because I did not know how to practice good self-care. Looking 'forward' to retirement was common for the front line workers at the VA. You don't know what you don't know.

 

Symptoms of burn out started 10 years before I actually decided that I needed to address what was happening to me mind, body and soul.  I got still in October of 2006 and googled Post-Polio Syndrome. The story of how I learned about Post-Polio Syndrome gives you a glimpse of how I burned out in the first place. I had reconstructive leg surgery to correct a deformity on my left leg. At my post-op visit, my surgeon, Dr. Donald Reilly said he needed my help with one of his patients. I reminded him I was there for MY post-op visit and he reassured me he would take care of me as well. She was the wife of a veteran and needed surgery to alleviate the pain she was experiencing secondary to Post-Polio Syndrome. He needed me to get her husband care so she could have the surgery. The Spaulding Rehab International Rehab Center for Polio and Post-Polio was a half hour drive from my home. It was a great place to start addressing my symptoms but I was told that it was a progressive neuromuscular disease, that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline as I aged. The only way to try to slow down the symptoms was to quit my job. But what's a social worker to do?

I was referred to Dr. ElAbd, a master magician who told me getting rid of my cervical spine pain was a slam dunk. After trigger injections, he referred me to Allison Lamarre Poole. At this time of year, I reflect on my health and wellness journey in the wake of the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006. May 25th will mark 18 years since I took a leap of faith leaving behind my award-winning career as a VA social worker to "heal my life" and follow my newfound bliss as a poet and writer.
 

The phrase second act was unknown to me at the time and truth be told I was in totally uncharted waters. I am so grateful to Allison for laying a solid foundation in physical therapy to begin healing the breach in my mind/body connection. She embraced and encouraged me writing poetry starting my business, "New World Greeting Cards:Original Poetry for Every Occasion." As she discharged me from outpatient therapy in May 2007, she gave me a home exercise program. She looked me straight in the eyes and said, "You'll be consistent with this right? You don't ever want to go back to where you were when you first came to see me, do you?"

 

My new goal of running the Hyannis 10K next February fuels my consistency in strength training and training runs. I've fallen in love with taking care of myself mind, body and soul. I cannot imagine how my life would have turned out and if it did go as I had planned.

 

In February of 2007, I discovered the gift of poetry in my soul. My pen became my divining rod for healing and opened the portal to the mind/body connection. My first poem foreshadowed my 2009 Boston Marathon run!

 

When I told my colleagues that I would be leaving the VA in 6 weeks on May 25th, they were sure that it was madness. What would I do for money? Couldn't I work part-time instead? One can't make money as a poet or as an author. Who could blame them? At every turn, the madness did ultimately turn into magic. 

 

As in every journey, there were twists and turns, trials and triumphs. There were times of financial stress but the Universe always had our back. I had an injury in 2014 and major setback in 2021/2022 but I continued to garner strength and wisdom finding out just how resilient I am when I remain connected to Source being ever mindful of my passion and purpose.

 

From an early age my life didn't go as one would hope for a 5 year old. I contracted paralytic polio and endured unimaginable horrors at the hands of family members, the death of my father by suicide when I was 17 and my nephew's death by suicide in 2011.  I felt a touch of grace early on and have been blessed to have so many wonderful earth angels bless my life with their presence. I knew from an early age, feeling a powerful connection to Source, that I would make it through whatever came my way. Eighteen years ago, I was given the gift of the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome. It was the greatest blessing in my life as it allowed me to let go of the life I had planned to embrace the glorious life that was waiting for me.

 

 From my heart to yours--

 

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.

Be sure to visit my Author Page on Amazon. My books share a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities; what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary.   My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is receiving rave reviews. It's a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club  and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reads for Every Runner.

 

Let The New Training Cycle Begin! - You're Never Too Old!

 

18 years ago at this time, I was bringing home my personal belongings from my office at the VA getting ready to take a leap of faith on 5/25/2007. In December of 2006, I was given the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged. I felt much older than my 53 years. Wow! What a grim prognosis. So in February of 2007, I got still and asked for Divine Guidance. The answer to my prayer came in the form of a poem, 'Running the Race" that foreshadowed my 2009 Boston Marathon run! Poetry flowed out of me as if a spigot was turned on in my soul.  At the age of 71, I am still setting new goals on and off of the roads, and continue my journey of healing and transformation with joy; every day is a celebration of life. Ellen Langer's "Counter Clockwise" is a phenomenal book that shares how our thoughts, beliefs, and environment affect how we 'age' as we get older. 

 In Dr. Langer's book, she presents a fascinating research study of taking a cohort of men in their 70's and having them go on a retreat where they lived for a week as though it was 1959 and showed dramatic improvements in their hearing, memory, dexterity, appetite, and general well-being, Langer shows that the magic of rejuvenation and ongoing good health lies in being aware of the ways we mindlessly react to social and cultural cues. They were also away from their well-meaning children who reinforced their behaviors as 'old men.' 

Reading books about healing, the mind/body connection, running, inspirational memoirs and listening to podcasts that fuel hope, optimism and inspiration during these challenging times are vital to my health and well-being; as is setting goals.

My initial goal for 2025 was to train up to the half marathon distance again. I got an email from The Fun Road Race Company about early bird pricing for the Hyannis Marathon Weekend that includes a 10K. There is no time limit because the finish line stays open for the 10K, the Half and the 10K. The last time I ran the Hyannis 10K was in 2016. It was after a serious knee injury in 2014 when I was told that I shouldn't run or cap my distance at a 5K and prepare for a total knee replacement in a few years. I ran it after running the Bermuda Half Marathon in January and went on to run two more Bermuda Half Marathons.

As I write about in my 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior," I had a major setback in 2021/2022 after an adverse reaction to the 2nd COVID vaccine (despite my best efforts harnessing the power of the mind/ibody connection). I was a DNF at the Bermuda 10K in 2024 (after contracting COVID in December) but on May the Fourth of last year (as in May the Fourth be with you) finished my unfinished business. Now that Ruth Anne crossed the finish line of the Boston Marathon, and I am no longer support crew/marathon manager, it's time for me to focus on my goals.

The Hyannis Marathon Weekend doesn't conflict with Tom's Birthday/our anniversary on March 2nd and even though it does conflict with the weekend of The Boston Run Show, I just know I am meant to do this again.

My new training cycle began yesterday on a glorious day in South Boston. Since Tom and Ruth Anne are in between training cycles, they could go with me for a 5K and helped me to push my pace.

 

Off the roads, I applied to be the Massachusetts Poet Laureate. Hey why not right? I have a very impressive resume and unique story as a poet. I am also reaching out to the Newburyport Literary Festival to suggest myself as a presenter next year. It would be a wonderful full circle moment from April of 2007. I am open to the Universe to explore what other opportunities may arise for speaking opportunities and podcast interviews.

There  is no need to wait for the New Year to set new goals. Remember always you are never too old to set a new goal or dream a new dream!

 From my heart to yours--

 

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.

Be sure to visit my Author Page on Amazon. My books share a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities; what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary.   My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is receiving rave reviews. It's a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club  and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reads for Every Runner.

Boston Marathon 2025 - Part 3 Celebration - Boston Was Her Victory! Moment Met!

Before I begin the recap of the celebration on Boylston Street, in the Mandarin Hotel and in the week that followed, I want to take you back to Hopkinton for a moment. Before Ruth Anne went to her corral, she texted me this photo:

 A week or so before the Marathon, Ruth Anne was inspired to make a button with a photo of me coming down Commonwealth Avenue smiling when we ran the 2009 Boston Marathon as Team McManus. I was so touched that she wanted to do that. She said that if the going got tough, she would look down and remember all I'd overcome and that even though it took us 7 hours and 49 minutes, we crossed that finish line together!

 

 

 

 

The celebration began as soon as Ruth Anne texted me with  "Here I come." She was surprised at the finish line with Caitlin Doherty, her best friend friend from L Street Running Club who took these amazing photos:

 

Walking like a boss after conquering the Newton Hills for Spaulding Rehab.

With Sasha

Receiving the coveted Unicorn

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How amazing to celebrate this moment with Cait, the first person Ruth Anne met at the L Street Running Club's Jim Kane Race in 2015.

Erin, Dr. Carter and I went upstairs to wait for Ruth Anne, Tom and Sasha to walk around to the Mandarin. We didn't know Cait was coming to the finish line, otherwise we would have bought her a ticket to the party at the Mandarin. She was just so happy to be at the finish line to celebrate Ruth Anne's second Boston Marathon finish; her first solo one. 

The party was supposed to end at 6 but there were still a lot of people there, many of whom were waiting to celebrate Ruth Anne. I've known Nikki Mansfield through the Facebook Race for Rehab group. She is the heart and soul of the team, showing up for events, and always saying that Race for Rehab is the best team. She had followed Ruth Anne's journey and when I met her in the Mandarin, she gave me the biggest hug. She reassured me that Ruth Anne would do great and helped to calm my jitters along the way. She had gotten to the party at 1pm.  I thought for sure she would have left the party but she wanted to see Ruth Anne cross the Race for Rehab finish line at the Mandarin. Steven Patrick, VP of Development told me that it could be up to 20 minutes before she got back to the Mandarin. Cara Brickley, VP of Operations and Director of Inpatient Services said that she needed to have a crowd gather for when Ruth Anne walked through the doors. I knew Ruth Anne was with Sasha and Tom so I could finally let out a big exhale and celebrate what Ruth Anne and, what we as Team McManus had just accomplished. Cara directed Ruth Anne to the "finish line" door and directed Tom and Sasha to enter the ballroom through another door. Erin did a video of this iconic moment of celebration for the last runner on the 129th Boston Marathon Race for Rehab team to finish:

We also took photos to document Ruth Anne's inspiring Boston Marathon finish:

 

 With Nikki and Dr. Carter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Team McManus with Erin Foley, Ruth Anne's OT of 5 years at Spaulding. Ruth Anne write about how Erin has been a vital part of her recovery on her fundraising page.

Melissa Gleaton and I have been running friends for years. I was so excited to learn that she joined Spaulding Rehab's Development Team about a year ago. She helped me to stay calm throughout the day understanding the jitters of a mother waiting for her daughter to finish the Boston Marathon and captured the day with incredible photos. She took this photo of Ruth Anne hugging me after she walked in the room. Here's a selfie with Melissa after Ruth Anne received a post-race stretch from Spaulding PT's and a shower at the Mandarin Spa.

After everyone congratulated Ruth Anne and the party wound down at around 7:00, we took an Uber home still buzzing with the excitement of the day.

Tom had a vacation day on Tuesday. The sun was shining and so was Team McManus. There's only one thing to do the day after the Boston Marathon when you live in Boston; go back downtown to Copley Square to celebrate! Our first stop was at Eva Boston to celebrate:

 

Runners were wearing medals, finisher jackets and the unique energy that surrounds the Boston Marathon continued to permeate the City. We applauded the Six Star Finishers and conversations spontaneously started from table to table. It was time to get Ruth Anne her Finisher's Jacket at Marathon Sports. While we bought swag at the Expo and at Marathon Sports before she ran Boston, we were superstitious about buying the finisher's jacket. The sign above the Unicorn went from Countdown to Congratulations!

                 

Wednesday through Friday were rest and recovery days. On Saturday, Caitlin asked Ruth Anne to join her for a celebratory brunch at Central Perk. Despite a rainy day, their spirits could not be dampened. Cait shared with Ruth Anne that she can cross the finish line for the next year until the eve of the Marathon. She, however, could not be on the finish line because she did not run Boston this year! Here are the photos of their celebration time together:

 

Caption for this last photo -- Boston was her victory! Moment met!

You can still donate to Ruth Anne's fundraising page to support Spaulding's life saving work. A BIG thank you to our amazing village for your donations, for being out on the course on race day, gift giveaway sponsors, the outpouring of love and support throughout Ruth Anne's healing journey, Race for Rehab especially Amanda Shuman who works day and night to ensure the Team's safety and well-being, and most of all, Spaulding Rehab. Last June, Ruth Anne experienced a sudden onset of alarming symptoms. She couldn't swallow, walk or talk. She had 4 ER visits with symptoms that would wax and wane accompanied by severe migraine headaches. Fortunately she was diagnosed with a neurology team at the Brigham who immediately referred her to Spaulding Rehab for Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapies. As she recovered from the Functional Neurological Disorder, she knew it was time to fulfill her dream of the past 5 years; to run the Boston Marathon as part of the Race for Rehab Team. We are forever grateful to Spaulding for helping Ruth Anne to find her strength and move forward in her life.

From my heart to yours--

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 books are available on Bookshop that share a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities; what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary. Be sure to visit my Author Page on Amazon   My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is receiving rave reviews and is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club .