The Boston Outdoor Expo - Day 2

Before the doors even opened to the second day of The Boston Outdoor Expo, the energy was electric fueled by the very presence of Rudy Reyes who was set to the take the Inspiration Stage to set the tone for an amazing day!

After the traditional queue giveaway, the Ambassadors for the Expo gathered for the ribbon cutting ceremony. I spotted Scott Jurek who said, before I could remind him of who I was and our meeting at The Boston Run Show, "I owe you an email!" I wrote to him about the upcoming release of my 7th book and asked if he would write a review. I presented him with an Author Copy and in true fan girling fashion tripped over my words saying, "Well if you get a chance to read it..." "Of course I'll read it," Scott replied.

 

After the ribbon cutting ceremony, I walked with Scott into the Expo and asked him for a photo. He said, "Of course. Let's take it with the book." He asked USA Marketing Director Chloe Hyland to take the photo which she eagerly and graciously agreed to take.

CEO of Raccoon Media Group Mike Seaman passed by and said, "Oh I see you're hanging with my buddy Scott." He gave me a big smile and a hug.

I headed to the Inspiration Stage where Dave Fatula was welcoming everybody to Day 2 of the Expo before introducing Rudy Reyes. He lit up the Convention Center with his infectious energy while also sharing his powerful and poignant story. Dave was a wonderful facilitator drawing out the highlights of Rudy's experiences and work both past and present. We were treated to an impromptu sharing of the YouTube video about the organization he founded, Force Blue Team that helps vets help the planet. I had goosebumps all over when Rudy shared how the organization brings in kids from Gold Star Families into the program. With warmth, wit, grit, vulnerability and honesty, Rudy captured the hearts of all in attendance.

Rudy took time to answer questions and to do a meet greet posing for photos, answering questions and offering support and guidance to the vets and their spouses in attendance. What a privilege and honor it was for me to take the photos and be privy to these tender conversations.

One of the themes for The Boston Outdoor Expo weekend was about the importance of representation. When we don't see someone like ourselves in an activity, we are hesitant to venture out and stake our claim to participate. But Kimber Cross would not let a limb difference stop her from becoming an adaptive ice climber and mountaineer. With her clear eyes and strong voice, she shared her journey with a combination of humility, humor and passion. Her motto is "I Can't. I Will. I Did." She reminded us that this cycle is not a once and done but can repeat as we challenge ourselves with different endeavors.

What a blessing to meet her, take photos for the meet and greet and share my journey. I told her that after a particularly challenging training run on the road to the 2009 Boston Marathon, my personal trainer told me to google Wilma Rudolph. I found my role model and strength to take on the Boston Marathon after reading her story. We talked about what a blessing she is to the children she teaches; how their lessons go far beyond learning the ABC's and extend to learning about life! 

I walked around the Expo after feeling incredibly inspired by Rudy and Kimber. The Boston Outdoor Expo promised over 120 brands, features and inspirational speakers all under one roof. They delivered! Two of my highlights were meeting Dan Minnich, founder of Waypoint Adventure. I started following them on Instagram after hearing about them from the Expo promos. Dan's passion for inclusion was evident as he shared his why for starting Waypoint Adventure. As one who has lived with different ability, I know how vital it is to provide opportunities for exploration of the great outdoors. What a great connection!

The Boston Harbor Islands had a booth depicting the natural beauty of the Islands. They are offering free ferry service the weekend of May 18-19 to Spectacle Island where I ran my first trail race several years ago. I am so excited to return there this year and take advantage of the great outdoors that is practically in my backyard. 

It was time to return to the Inspiration Stage for Scott Jurek. Although described as a living legend, Scott will be the first to say that he does not think of himself as a celebrity! He was quite surprised when somebody recognized him in an airport while he was wearing a mask. Dave and Scott engaged in a conversation that was quite different than having Scott talk about his previous achievements. Scott talked about how the everyday person can make their own adventure in a way that challenges the individual. He is emphatic that testing fortitude leads to transformation and developing confidence. He encouraged us all to keep our fire lit and fuel our passion.

Scott believes it is vital for us to feel alive like a kid when we plan our adventures from urban adventuring to more daring adventures that extend to over nights. He often gets asked "what's next for Scott Jurek?" He off-handedly said that he still has a few speed records in him. His eyes sparkled when he said how much joy he experiences being a sighted guide for runners. 

What an incredible way to end two days of inspiration, exploration, education, meeting up with old friends and making new connections. Scott's comment about feeling as though he's not a celebrity gave me pause. I wrote to him in a follow up thank you email, all of us who are out there spreading powerful messages of possibility, living by example and creating change in the world are celebrities in our own right! 

Thank you The Boston Outdoor Expo for a wonder filled weekend. Until next Spring when you join with The Boston Run Show for what is sure to be an epic weekend!

 

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 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

Feels Like -- There's No Such Thing as Bad Weather!

Last Thursday, Team McManus went out for a runchie (a run over Tom's lunch hour.) I had to psych myself up to get out the door knowing that the temps were in the 30's and there was a wind advisory. It felt like 17 degrees. The wind chill was fierce but we endured. It was one of those boy these miles sure hurt. I have a goal of another 10K this year either virtual or in person and know how mental training is an integral part of physical training. If we waited for perfect weather or if we waited for perfect circumstances in life, we would never get anything done. I love how running is a metaphor for life.

One of the biggest benefits of the pandemic was that we had to go outside and run. As you all recall, there was no access to gyms. We embraced the great outdoors and loved the sense of adventure that came with finding new running routes. That sense of adventure has stayed with us although I must confess, it is tempting to go indoors when the wind chill stings.

You can see how the wind pulled the water. We debated whether or not we should go down Beacon Street where the buildings may have blocked the wind. With the effort it would have taken for us to change our route and to probably need to endure the head wind anyway, we could finish our run. That's exactly what we did. Tom commented that he didn't know many 70+ year olds who would be outside braving the elements on a day like last Thursday. It's especially amazing for me to be out on a cold day. One of the hallmark symptoms of Post-Polio Syndrome is cold intolerance. The 'thermostat' to regulate body temperature was damaged as a result of the initial polio virus. I harnessed the power of the mind/body connection to rewire the circuitry. Training for the Boston Marathon during the bitter New England cold winter of 2008/2009, helped to heal the breach in my nervous system.

I am over the moon excited to be an Ambassador for The Boston Outdoor Expo. One of the speakers on the Inspiration Stage is Sir Ranulph Fiennes. Ranulph Fiennes is a British adventurer and novelist that is best known today for his various exploits around the world. He is especially hailed for being the first man to cross the Antarctica from one side to the other [via the pole] on foot.

 

I learned about The Boston Outdoor Expo from the organizers of The Boston Run Show after having been an Ambassador. My daughter Ruth Anne teased me about the Outdoor Expo pointing out that we are not great outdoors people. I was quick to point out that in fact, as runners, we are great outdoors people. The Expo is going to present us with an incredible opportunity to expand our experiences by learning about new activities and exploring new challenges.

It would have been so easy to head indoors to a track when the wind chill felt like .. last Thursday. Instead we layered up and got in our miles feeling vibrant and invigorated after the run was done. There is a lot of research about how going out in cold weather slows down the aging process and has health benefits far beyond the exercise itself. There really is no such thing as bad weather; only a bad attitude and inappropriate clothing.

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.

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.

 

Finishing Unfinished Business!

 Yesterday's 10K embodied the Nike motto of "Just Do It!"

I had unfinished business from the Bermuda 10K in January. I know that I made the right choice to 'call it' at 3.06 miles to avoid injury or worse. Believe me when I say that you do not want to have to access medical care in Bermuda. Most Bermudians come to Massachusetts for their care. I knew that I needed/wanted to finish a 10K before the year was out. When I was unable to find a race that would accommodate my pace, I opted for the Gone for a Run Virtual Series 10K Challenge. I started the challenge on March 30th.  My planner had a training plan mapped out as I had for when I trained last year for the Bermuda 10K. I planned to slowly increase my mileage.

Last week, during my strength training session, I was inspired to up my game with core work. I'd been inspired by all I had seen and heard at last weekend's Boston Outdoor Expo. I felt the benefits of strengthening the core when Ruth Anne and I did fartleks last Thursday.

Let me digress for a moment, This time last year, I recorded my episode for the On the Runs podcast. I gave them 'an exclusive' that my next goal was to do the Bermuda 10K walk as a way to celebrate my 70th birthday and 17 years of healing in the wake of the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome. Here is the link to my episode on Apple but subscribe and download on your favorite podcast platform. 

Race day in Bermuda did not go as planned-spoiler alert for "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior-but other goals were met. Tom and I had a wonderful time.

Having that unfinished 10K was gnawing at me since January. Part of me wanted to do the Hyannis 10K where I knew that my pace wouldn't matter since there is a half marathon and marathon but that didn't feel right in March. I've been using conscious movement and meditation/visualization to continue to heal the late effects of paralytic polio and trauma and the reaction I had to the 2nd Pfizer vaccine (coincidentally 3 years ago today on 5/5).  Yesterday morning I was able to remove the top of the full orange juice jug with ease and pour the OJ into glasses without spilling any concentrating on keeping my hands steady. I tamed the nerve pain in my right leg by lovingly talking to my body with the mantra, "The Power that made the body, heals the body." My day was off to a good start!

I went on social media to do my morning post. I stopped my scrolling when I saw what my dear friend, Candice, who I met through the On the Runs podcast posted. She was diagnosed with an aggressive type of breast cancer last month and has crossed the starting line of her marathon of healing. She posted her 5 mile run with the quote, "Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you." Loved this quote so much! Happy Saturday! 5 miles on this beautiful morning. I go into each run with a number of miles in mind. If I don't hit my number that's ok. I celebrate that I no longer beat myself up for what didn't happen and be proud something happened! It's the little things.

Last Tuesday (the day she receives chemo) she ended her post with, "I'll continue to stay mentally strong and surround myself with amazing people! A seed can only grow to its full potential by what it's surrounded by."

I felt a stirring deep in my soul. I knew I wanted to dedicate my miles to Candice but not the 4 miles I had on the training plan. I knew that even though I had not built up the mileage again to do the 10K, it was go time. I knew in every fiber of my being that it was time to once again see what this body could do ( a favorite phrase from my personal trainer from the 2009 Boston Marathon) and finish that unfinished business. Ruth Anne said she would go the distance with me as was our original plan for Bermuda. There were many layers and factors inspiring and motivating me to finish what I started a year ago. When I said goodbye to Scott Jurek at last week's Boston Outdoor Expo with a hug, he got a gleam in his eye. "Go finish that marathon." I knew he was referring to the 10K. For me, a 10K is a marathon these days. He talked about keeping the fire lit and the passion alive while feeling that child-like aliveness in our endeavors. 

But the number one source of inspiration and motivation for getting out there and just doing it was Candice. While she is doing an incredibly hard thing with cancer treatment, I wanted to do a hard thing in her honor. I ran with my heart and my mind not paying attention to the fact that I was under trained to do a 10K. All of the admonitions from Western Medicine about if you use it, you'll lose it were washed away by the passion and drive I felt inside. I felt incredible joy knowing that once again I was running for something greater than myself. Candice and I are both warriors who refuse to let a diagnosis define who we are and how we live our lives.

When I set out on this quest to heal my life 17 years ago, I knew there would be pain whether I chose the pain of atrophy as a result of Post-Polio Syndrome or I chose the pain of healing and surpassing limits, listening to my intuition. I wore my 2009 Boston Marathon jacket as the anchor memory from when I defied the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome.

Candice talks about one day at a time in her posts. I took the 10K one mile at a time. Ruth Anne was mindful of helping me to keep a steady pace. When the wind intensified around the Reservoir, we went to the track across the street. She asked a person to take our photo. He was the Director of Grounds Keeping for the field at Cleveland Circle. Once the wind died down, we returned to the Reservoir. Although the temperature did not feel like Spring, the beauty of Spring shined through.

Baby geese once again grace the perimeter of the Reservoir.

I did not feel the pressure of a specific pace, reminding myself that for someone who was supposed to be in a wheelchair, I go pretty fast but secretly, I wanted to finish in under 2:30 which was the time limit for the Bermuda 10K. I was keenly aware of fueling and hydration. I thought greater than my circumstances as I thought to myself I should have cut my toenails and dismissed the inevitable soreness that was creeping into my IT band, quads and hamstrings.

We took our traditional selfie:

We made a pit stop at the Boston College Recreation Center to refill our water bottles and go to the bathroom when we were at about 4.5 miles. My right knee was crunchy. I imagined putting a washer into the joint to stop the bone on bone sensation and visualized lubricant moving through the joint. I even said to my knee -- there - that's better! When I got to 5.6 miles I said to Ruth Anne, "This is the farthest I've gone since 2018 when we ran the Bermuda Half Marathon together!" Ruth Anne was incredibly supportive and encouraging throughout the miles, especially when I hit this milestone reminding me we only had .6 miles to go. We called Tom to meet us with the medal from Gone for a Run Virtual 10K Challenge. 

 

 I had my third eye on the goal throughout the miles and when I approached the 'finish line', I felt a rush of emotion. It was clear to me that I was meant to finish the 10K on May the fourth! 

Tom put the medal around my neck coincidentally wearing the hat he bought at the Flying Colours in Bermuda:

And Ruth Anne was at the ready to take a photo of me with my medal:

Out of curiosity, I did an age grade calculation. My age graded time is 1:35:08. As Ruth Anne paced me to a strong finish, she suggested that my goal for 2025 should be a half marathon again. I suggested she let me recover from today's accomplishment and we'll see. I did love that incredible feeling that happens after a long run that I had not experienced since I crossed the finish line of the 2018 Bermuda Half Marathon.

Thank you Ruth Anne for going the distance with me to finish the 10K distance. I am so grateful to my body, mind, heart and soul for working together to achieve this new milestone. Thank you Candice for being the ray of sunshine that you are. Your strength, grit, grace, remarkable resilience and living life with an attitude of gratitude are an inspiration to all who are blessed to know you. Be sure to listen to her Episode on the On the Runs podcast.

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