Global Running Day 2024

 

As an Ambassador for the Boston Run Show, I received a message that invited us to document our activity on Global Running Day.  Except for 2021/2022 when I had a major setback, I always enjoyed celebrating Global Running Day. When it was a scheduled rest day, as Wednesday was, I swapped Thursday's run for Wednesday! Now that I finished my unfinished business from a DNF in Bermuda, I am working on speed during my weekday runs. 

I felt something stir deeply in my soul as Ruth Anne and I headed out the door to get in our 2 miles for the day. I asked her to please pace me. Now what you, dear readers need to realize is that for someone who was supposed to be in a wheelchair, I run pretty fast. What I LOVE about the running community is whether you run a 5 minute mile or in my case an 18-19 minute mile you are embraced and accepted. What a contrast to when I was growing up after having contracted paralytic polio when I was teased and taunted by my peers. I felt unbridled joy deep in my heart and soul. The come back is so much sweeter than the setback. I felt a profound connection to the communities of the Boston Run Show and the National Running Show in the UK. Here's the video Ruth Anne and I took during our run:

Celebrating 17 years of healing in the wake of a devastating diagnosis fills my heart with gratitude. Experiencing the beauty of nature and having a phenomenal coach and cheerleader in Ruth Anne intensified the pleasure of celebrating Global Running Day.

I earned the Garmin Global Running Day Badge and, in addition to having the best time, I had the best time in a long time with a 19:01 min/mile pace with a huge negative split of 19:53 on first mile to 18:06 on the second mile!

This morning I received the email from the National Running Show.
Global Running Day 2024 took place this Wednesday, and to celebrate the National Running Show and Boston Run Show communities took on a challenge to run a combined ultra marathon...

A challenge to see how far we could all run in 24 hours. No matter how far or how fast people went, every individual contribution added towards an overall total.

The aim was for that total to cross the ultra marathon threshold. But how far could the running community go?

Calling on staff, ambassadors, speakers and brands, the whole #runshow community was called into action.

Oh... and we also documented it! Watch the video below!

I laughed a hearty belly laugh with the start of the video. I cried happy tears and had goosebumps when I saw my face on the cover photo and watched the beautiful editing by Dominic Brown. 

I often wonder what my life would be like if I would not have had the courage and strength to defy the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome. I would have missed out on so much of life. I love being able to spread a powerful message of healing, of hope, of what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary. I love being out on the roads running at my pace and being celebrated by the running community at almost 70 and a half years old. I love how wonderful I feel coming back strong after a major setback in 2021/2022. The message that accompanies Raccoon Media Group's Ultramarathon Challenge is "No matter how far or how fast people went, every contribution added towards an overall total."

Imagine if the world took on the culture of the running community; every contribution is valued and celebrated and everyone is included regardless of age, sexual orientation, appearance or pace! 

Thank you Boston Run Show and National Running Show for sharing the essence of the celebration of Global Running Day around the globe. What a blessing to be a part of this community!

Be sure to mark your calendars for 3/1-3/2/2025 when the Boston Run Show returns to Boston co-locating with the Boston Outdoor Expo at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

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  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.

 

Book Review: Choosing to Run: A Memoir Des Linden

When I heard that Des Linden was going to be a headline speaker at the Boston Run Show, I knew that I had to read her book, 'Choosing to Run: A Memoir.'

My husband ran the 2011 Boston Marathon for Boston Children's Hospital. I had a front row seat at the finish line thanks to the hospitality of Marathon Sports. I got goosebumps all over when Des recounts the moments of that iconic finish. My voice was hoarse as I joined in the crowd's chanting trying to will her to get that kick so she could break the finisher's tape. Des's memoir takes us into the heart and mind of her amazing journey as one who chooses to run over and over again despite setbacks and a potentially life threatening health issue.

In the Acknowledgements, Des thanks her agent Josh. "We've shared so many hours and and beers talking about my running career and what it would be like when I won the Boston Marathon. It didn't wind up looking anything like we'd dreamed of, but that made it a bit more special.....Thanks for recognizing that this version, the full version of my Boston win needed to be told..." It certainly did!

Whether or not you are a runner, you will appreciate the unfolding of the events of the day that Des Linden achieved her dream of becoming a Boston Marathon champion. Her memoir draws you into the drama of the day by interspersing the recounting of the miles against the backdrop of what was happening in her life.  After the diagnosis of hypothyroidism, she shares how she had to adapt her training for days when she was not like her former self able to effortlessly roll through the miles. As she Tweeted on 3/15/18: "Some days it just flows and I feel like I'm born to do this, other days it feels like I'm trudging through hell. Every day I make the choice to show up and see what I've got, and to try and be better. My advice: keep showing up."

She certainly does keep showing up. It is always a thrill to see her coming down Beacon Street on the 3rd Monday in April. The crowds adore her no matter what place she is in especially since her iconic 2018 win. The weather conditions were too tough for me to watch the race in person that year but what a thrill to watch the TV coverage and see her all alone down the stretch on Boylston Street to break the finisher's tape, and a spell of over 30 years of not having an American woman win Boston. Being able to experience those final miles through the lens of Des's mind and heart in her memoir brought me to tears and goosebumps all over. 

"Choosing to Run:A Memoir" is an intimate portrait that lets the reader into the life of an inspiring, captivating, uniquely complex champion.  Run, don't walk to get your copy. 

Be sure to sign up for the Boston Run Show Newsletter to stay up to date on all the excitement happening at the Boston Convention and Exhibit Center on March 1-2, 2025. 

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  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.

A Runner's High Continued - The Boston Run Show - Day 2

Michael Seaman had a vision, a dream for an event where runners could come together whatever their pace or distance. One day his wife encouraged him to stop talking about it and do something about it. You can hear the back story of The Boston Run Show on Episode 89 of the On the Runs Podcast. 

Tom and Ruth Anne joined me for the start of Day 2. They were treated as VIP's! The excitement of the crowd waiting to enter to hear Michael Johnson's fireside chat filled the air. The Raccoon Media Group team were feverishly handing out swag to the queue. I asked if they needed help. With a big sigh of relief, Chloe said, "Yes please!" I filled up a box with non-alcoholic Sam Adams Beer, t-shirts, hats and cooling towels and worked the line. Prior to the ribbon cutting ceremony, David Hellard asked trivia questions for the gift giveaway.

After the ribbon cutting ceremony, much of the crowd made their way to the Marathon and Road Stage to hear Kelly Roberts moderate a fireside chat with 4 time Gold Medalist Michael Johnson. It was standing room only. Tom, Ruth Anne and I enjoyed seeing our friends at the FlavaNaturals booth:

 

Alan was ecstatic with being a part of the Show and plans to return next year. "The audience is exactly who we want to reach for our product," Alan said. They asked questions and were engaged with the information he provided about his proprietary product.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ruth Anne and I took photos with the Boston Marathon trophy:

We reminisced about our 2009 Boston Marathon run. While we may not have brought home 'the' trophy, Team McManus felt like champions for taking on the challenge and raising $10,535 for Spaulding Rehab Hospital.

Ruth Anne had course work to finish. We were about to say goodbye but she decided to stay a little longer. Seemingly out of nowhere, we saw our dear friend Suzanne Showstack Adams.

"I knew I was going to see you," Suzanne said. 

"I felt the same way." We knew that we were each Ambassadors. Suzanne was with her dad Bruce. We tightly hugged and expressed our deepest condolences on the loss of Bonnie, Suzanne's mom and Bruce's beloved wife. We were blessed to know Bonnie when we were part of the Spaulding Race for Rehab Team. Our eyes filled with tears as Suzanne shared Bruce's why for running the Boston Marathon this year for Spaulding. Here's a link to his fundraising page. We posed for a 'team reunion' photo:

After more conversation overflowing with love and support, we hugged so long. Tom and Ruth Anne went on their way and I made my way to the cafe to recharge after an exciting start to the day!

Eric and Erika, co-hosts of the 'pod' made their way to the cafe. What a thrill to finally meet in 3-D and enjoy the Show with them. We met up with another member of the pod fam known as Mr. 305NoMore whose incredible journey of transformation can be heard on Episode 45. We met with the Team from Racoon Media who arranged to have Mike on the pod exploring possibilities for next year's show!

I connected with David Whelan on LinkedIn when I saw he would be taking the stage Sunday afternoon to present on "Feed What You Want to Grow." What an incredible inspiration! I took notes feeling in awe of his miraculous journey.

Prior to David taking the stage, I had a delightful encounter with Kelly Roberts and Laura Green. 

"You know," I said to Laura Green. "You and I have something in common. We were each guests on the On the Runs podcast." Kelly took a photo of us:

As you can see from the smiles on the faces in the crowd, Laura's talk on "My lifelong quest to be friends with Des Linden" was a perfect way to end the Boston Run Show weekend.

Congratulations to Mike and the outstanding crew of Raccoon Media Group for an exceptional experience. 

I experienced a post-event let down after all the magic from the weekend. Fortunately, I received a post-event survey that included a link to get tickets to the Boston Outdoor Expo happening in Boston on 4/27 and 4/28. See you there!

From my heart to yours

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.

A Runner's High - The Boston Run Show - Day 1

 

Tom and Ruth Anne dropped me off at the Hynes Convention Center at 8:30 on Saturday morning. I was greeted by Chloe from Raccoon Media Group who greeted the Ambassadors with her delightful British accent. We handed out giveaways to the attendees whose excitement about this year's Boston Run Show was palpable.

There is an inexplicable energy that happens whenever runners gather together. Throughout the weekend I reunited with runner friends, many of whom I hadn't seen since the pandemic and made new friends with other Ambassadors and presenters.

My first stop was to see my friends Alan and Shari Frost of FlavaNaturals fame. 

We met them at the Hyannis Marathon Expo in 2020 and have a subscription to their products. Their tag line is "Chocolate was your weakness. Now it's your strength." Their products are chock filled with flavanols which have incredible health benefits as borne out my many research studies. New York City Marathon winner Rod Dixon and the Pittsburgh Steelers have endorsed FlavaNaturals. Rod has his products shipped to New Zealand!

After leaving Alan and Shari to work their mojo at the Show, I found myself standing next to Scott Jurek. I shared my journey with him. His mother lives with MS. I asked him about the possibility of being on the On the Runs podcast. He was incredibly gracious and kind. As we were getting ready to say goodbye, he said that while elite runners and breaking records are all fine and good, the sport of running really needs stories like mine to inspire!

I went to the Cafe to plan my day after being intrigued by unique products and brands. It was almost time for the Power of Community panel. I 'just happened' to find the Trail Animals Running Club Booth. Patrick Caron who we've known through the Boston Bulldogs Running Club and our mutual love of the On the Runs podcast (Patrick was also a guest), was moderating the panel. He led the way to the Trail and Ultra Stage.

Before the start of the panel, I was treated to a high five and positivity hug from Maurice Lowman aka Marathon Panda. I 'met' Maurice through the On the Runs podcast and love following his energetic posts on social media. He is as real and authentic in 3-D as he is in social media.

 

  The panelists shared their running journeys including how running is an integral part of substance use recovery. I was inspired by the panelists' vulnerability and authenticity, and passion for inclusion. The Trail Sisters of Boston have a philosophy of no drop meaning that they stay with the back of the pack runners regardless of the pace. The Boston Bulldogs Running Club prides themselves on the power of community bringing non-runners into the fold to support them on the road to recovery!

After a lunch break, it was time for a reunion with Paulie Collyer at the Events Village who was hosting Bill Rodgers at his The Fun Road Race Company table. I hadn't seen Bill since Hyannis 2020 when I shared the stage with him at the Pre-Race Pasta Dinner. I received the warmest hugs from both Bill and his partner Karen. I first met Bill in 2009 before my first Half Marathon on the road to Boston. I met Karen at the 2014 Bill Rodgers 5K for Prostate Cancer. We shared warm memories about that day. You can hear her in this video saying, "God bless her" after Phil Lipof gives a bit of my history.

Karen told me she read my book and was so moved by my journey.  We chatted like no time had passed since we last saw each other. We vowed to stay in touch. I told Bill about my first DNF in Bermuda. "Only one? You know I've had a lot more!" He asked me several times, "But are you doing okay?" "Oh yes," I replied and told him that God willing I'll be out there next year in Hyannis at  the 10K.

I must say that I feel and look better now after being off of the sidelines training again for in person events!

I went to the charging station to recharge my phone and myself after such an exciting day! I debated whether or not I was going to stay for the next speakers at the Trail and Ultra Stage or leave. I felt spirit nudge me to stay. On my way to the stage, I recognized a dear runner friend from behind by her beautiful blue fingernails and blonde hair from behind. "Rachel?"

"How did you recognize me?" she asked as we tightly hugged each other. We said almost in unison I recognized her beautiful nails and hair. We took a few moments together before I headed to the Trail and Ultra Stage for the next speaker, Hilary Topper.

When asked if anyone had questions in the audience, my hand shot up and I didn't know why. "Thank you so much for an amazing talk," I said. "Where can we get your book?" Hilary thanked me for my comment and question. "I'll be signing books in the back. They are $20." 

I knew that I needed to meet her and share my story. It was a goosebump moment as she shared with me that her mom had polio and was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome. She was enamored with my journey as I was enamored with hers; "From Couch Potato to Endurance Athlete: A Portrait of a Non-Athletic Triathlete."

While waiting for Scott Jurek, the last speaker of the day, I reconnected with two more running friends. My heart overflowed with gratitude for the synchronicity that was waiting for me once I made the decision to stay at the Run Show.

The Fireside Chat with Scott Jurek was a phenomenal way to end the day.

Scott shared many nuggets of running wisdom as a wonderful metaphor for life as he shared stories from his stellar career. I felt a stirring in my soul as he said that there's really no experience comparable to being a part of an event. It is unparalleled to anything he has tried to recreate outside of an event. There's discomfort and a challenge that helps us to grow whatever that distance may be for each individual. It was thrilling to have my choice validated to be off the sidelines.

Stay tuned for more adventures at The Boston Run Show - Day 2.

From my heart to yours

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.

"I'm sorry I didn 't get that." - Preparing for My Victory Lap

 

It's called taper madness for a reason! 

There's a poetic arc to a training cycle. Even before I registered for the Bermuda Triangle Challenge 10K, I wrestled with whether or not I wanted to or could go the distance again after a setback in 2021/2022. Once I committed to the goal, I was focused on building miles, working on pace, becoming acquainted with all of the sensations that go with pushing my body and training my mind to embrace this new goal. It's just a little more than a month to go before I toe the starting line. I know that it is vital to taper and allow my body to heal all the 'niggles' that occurred during the training. It takes conscious effort to trust the training and go into a relaxed taper mode. 

As the body shifts from a doing to being mode, many thoughts arise filled with doubts focusing on the aches and pains once more questioning if I can really do this as I did at the start of training. As Tom and I were getting ready to start the day on Monday, I said, "You know there are times when I could really just go and have a relaxing vacation. Neither Tom nor I had our phones open and our laptops were downstairs.  Siri said, "I'm sorry I didn't get that." Even my wonderful husband who tends to be on the skeptical side of things said 'whoa.'

Yes - whoa. The Universe was speaking to me through Siri's voice. I felt a stirring in my soul that this is meant to be. 

Early on in my healing journey, I said that I know there's going to be pain. I'd rather hurt on the side of progress, health and wellness than allow the pain of decline secondary to disuse and atrophy to prevail. As my personal trainer Janine and I walked back to the Mandarin Oriental Boston Hotel after crossing the 2009 Boston Marathon finish line, she asked me how I was feeling. Every marathoner experiences pain but my pain had an extra layer given my history of paralytic polio and trauma, I told Janine that if I were to focus on the pain I experienced during training, I would not have made it to the starting line." "I knew there was a lot you weren't telling me," Janine said.

The Universe has orchestrated wondrous happenings to accompany this taper time. On Wednesday, despite freezing temperatures, I had a photo shoot with a Boston University photographer. The editor of Bostonia, the alumni magazine, interviewed me for a piece they are doing about accomplishments of older alumni. The shoot included action shots of me running and portraits of me wearing my Boston Marathon jacket and medal. I felt the Divine surge through me as I experienced the miracle of healing of the past 17 years. I felt the muscle memory of training for the Boston Marathon through a bitter cold New England winter. We did the photo shoot where I had a photo shoot for the Brookline Tab in May of 2008 as I first set out on my Boston Marathon journey. Talk about a full circle moment!

Later that afternoon, I had a Zoom call as an Ambassador for The Boston Run Show.  I sent in my journey as a most unlikely runner and was selected to be an Ambassador for the Boston Run Show happening January 27-January 28. As Ambassadors, we promote the show in our social media outlets and have VIP access to the event. During the call, the organizers said that they needed Ambassadors to assist with the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Meet and Greets for the guest speakers. I connected with David Whelan, an incredibly inspirational runner who is going to be a guest speaker. He is an amputee after experiencing Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. He crossed the finish line of the Indian Wells 70.3 Ironman! He uses his pain as fuel to reach his goals!

Bermuda Triangle Challenge posted the medals for Race Weekend on their social media pages. I visualized how I am going to feel after crossing the finish line of the 10K and wearing the medal for the rest of the weekend.

It's been four years since I've experienced taper time. I'm remembering the motivation and inspiration from when I trained for Boston. During a challenging training run, Janine asked me if I had ever heard of Wilma Rudolph. She told me to go home and google her. She was an American sprinter who overcame childhood polio and went on to become a world-record-holding Olympic champion and international sports icon in track and field following her successes in the 1956 and 1960 Olympic Games. 

Just as Siri "didn't get that" when I said that sometimes I'd like to go and have a relaxing vacation, I shall prepare for my victory lap visualizing only success, enjoy reeling in the distance and pace, and celebrating 17 years of healing and entering a new decade of life ablaze with determination and a new found strength from taking on the Bermuda Triangle Challenge 10K.

From my heart to yours
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.

 

Book Review-North: Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail

 

I met Scott Jurek at the 2024 Boston Run Show. I was moved to share my story with him. He said while he loves runners who break records (of course Scott being one of the greatest runners of all time), the sport needs stories of inspiration like mine. He told me his mother lived with MS so he understood the effects of a neuromuscular condition. What a thrill to see Scott again at the Boston Outdoor Expo in April. He is gracious, humble and kind. When I asked him if we could take a photo together, he said, "Let's do it with your book." I emailed Scott with info about my latest book after the Run Show and when I heard he would be speaking at the Expo. He had 'warned' me at  the Boston Run Show he wasn't very good with email but as soon as he saw me and gave me a hug he said, "I owe you an email but then I knew I'd be seeing you here at the Expo."

 After hearing him speak on two occasions and having these warm and wonderful conversations with Scott, I dusted off my copy of "North:Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail." Even though I knew that he had achieved his goal of beating the previous FKT (fastest known time) for the AT (Appalachian Trail), I found myself holding my breath at times wondering how is he possibly going to do it.

This thrilling memoir lays bare the soul of Scott Jurek who is known as  a living legend renowned for his speed and endurance. "North" also lays bare the intimate details of his relationship with his strong, resilient, determined, no-nonsense (read as no BS) wife, Jenny. I loved how the memoir is written in each of their voices. We are treated to experiencing the views from Scott on the trail and Jenny as support crew in their make shift home away from home while Scott chased the FKT on the AT.

The vulnerability shared by Jenny and Scott and the way they talk about their relationship moved me to tears and goosebumps. The harrowing experiences left me gasping and wondering, did he make it out alive which of course I knew the answer to since I'd just been with Scott at the Boston Outdoor Expo.

Scott's mind, body and soul are wrung out on the pages of his journey along the Appalachian Trail. His resilience and coming back stronger than ever to achieve the goal he set out to accomplish sent chills up my spine. The soul lessons he learned are profound; lessons we can all learn when we set out to challenge ourselves way outside of our comfort zone. Jenny faces her own health challenges after a life threatening miscarriage, and manages what's happening with her body while crewing for Scott with grace, grit and determination. As happens on the roads/trails and in life, just when we think we can't take another step, we are able to dig deep and keep moving forward most often because of the angels that are there just when we need them most. Scott refers to them as trail angels. The strength of Scott and Jenny's relationship endures today as they raise two beautiful children. 

The trajectory of Scott and Jenny's life as individuals and as a couple was transformed by their experiences while Scott set the record for the FKT on the Appalachian Trail. My life has been inspired by reading "North:Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail" and being blessed to connect with Scott in person and on the pages of his memoir!

 

Available on Amazon

 

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

"A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior is now available.  Book Release Party 6/3  7-8pm at Livite Brookline in Washington Square Brookline

Welcome Aboard Flight 2025!

 

During my morning meditation on New Year's Day, as I was sifting and sorting through thoughts and clearing negative energy, I heard the words, "Ready for take off." The Flight Instructions post that I have used the past several years with editing for the current year, popped up in my Facebook memories.

This memory also popped up:

Believe is my word of the year

What a great start to 2025 with wondrous synchronicity. Every morning, I open up the door and take 3 deep breaths of fresh air to start the day. It was pouring yesterday. Of course there is no mail on New Year's Day and we had brought in the mail from New Year's Eve yet something moved me to open up the mail box. There was a snoaked envelope for Ruth Anne with a note from our beloved neighbor Gene Kelley. Inside was $25 dollars for her fundraiser for  Spaulding Rehab!He was having trouble with his computer and wanted to be sure to get in a 2nd donation for the New Year. If it would have been left in there any longer, I'm not sure the note and money would have been legible. 

What a great way to start the day. 

I am so excited for this New Year. As I love to say, every day is a celebration of life for me. In December of 2006, I was diagnosed with a progressive neuromuscular disease, Post-Polio Syndrome. I could have easily succumbed to the diagnosis but instead, I got still and asked for Divine Guidance. Whenever I tap into Source, magic happens. 

I have 3 events lined up so far for 2025.

Next week, I am blessed and grateful to be recording an episode of the Optimism Institute's Blue Sky podcast. I reached out to Bill Burke on LinkedIn after I 'just happened' to see a post from Lee Woodruff about her being a guest on the podcast. We made an instant connection when he and I had a pre-interview chat to see if I would be a good guest for his podcast.

I met Meg Stewart last year at the Boston Outdoor Expo. We "just happened" to be standing next to each other after another speaker's presentation and started a conversation. A few months ago, Meg asked me if I would be interested in doing a presentation at Cohasset Elder Affairs. She 'just happened' to be the Director of Elder Affairs.

On 1/15, I will be sharing my journey, "A Most Unlikely Runner: A Story of Resilience, Strength and Determination." It's an event for all ages but be sure to RSVP at 781-383-9112 or www.mvactioncenter.com

On 3/1-3/2 I return for the 2nd year in a row as Ambassador to The Boston Run Show. You can use Free Ticket Code MMCMANUS for tickets for entry to both the Boston Run Show and The Boston Outdoor Expo. 

April 21, 2025 brings the Boston Marathon which I like to call Runner's Christmas. This year is an incredibly special year. Ruth Anne is part of the Race for Rehab Team running and raising funds and awareness for Spaulding Rehab. Here is the link to her fundraising page. I get goosebumps in anticipation of Marathon Weekend when so many friends near and far will gather to celebrate a successful training cycle and those special bonds of friendship forged through the sport of running.

The first third of the year looks amazing! I am ready for take off!

From my heart to yours - in health and wellness,

Mary

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

On January 15th, I will be speaking at Cohasset Elder Affairs to share my journey and have a book signing details on my website.

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

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon  My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is receiving rave reviews and is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club.