Look at me...look at me...look at me now!

Dr. Seuss was a vital part of my childhood after having contracted paralytic polio at the age of 5.

From "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953":
Miss Holly sat next to me in the waiting room and asked me to choose a Dr. Seuss book from the array of Dr. Seuss books spread out on the round coffee table next to my chair. My legs were outstretched; my left leg bore the hip to ankle metal leg brace inserted into my red polio shoes. My crutches were propped against the wall behind me. She read Dr. Seuss to me in the waiting room, led me into the treatment room and removed my leg brace. She placed heavy hot wool blankets on my legs. To this day I cannot bear to wear anything that is made of wool. As she coaxed my muscles and nerves back to health, she recited the first line from the Dr. Seuss book I had chosen (invariably “The Cat in the Hat”).

“The sun did not shine it was too wet to play…now it’s your turn.”

“So we sat in the house all that cold cold wet day.”

“I sat there with Sally….we sat there we two…your turn.”

“And I said how I wish we had something to do…”

We would recite in tandem throughout the treatment. She was a physical therapist ahead of her time. I often wonder what inspired her to use the rhythm of the poetry to distract me from the painful treatments. She tenderly put my leg brace back on after she finished the treatment. She commended me on my courage as she wrapped her hand around my hand on my crutch, and led me into Dr. Moskowitz’s office. He evaluated my progress, monitored me for scoliosis and gave me exercises to do at home. Picking up marbles with my toes was excruciatingly painful and difficult but even at my tender age, I loved the challenge of it all.

After this morning's strength training workout, Tom said, "I just had this memory while I was cooking breakfast. Do you remember when you used to have those specially adapted utensils?"

"Yeah," I answered. "I hadn't thought about that in a very long time."

My hand tremors made it very difficult for me to eat and the OT recommended weighted utensils with a hand grip.

I required a tub chair in the shower because I did not have the "endurance" to stand through an entire shower and my balance was not good so I was at risk for a fall.

I could barely walk up the stairs to our house, wore a toe up leg brace


and used a cane. We used Pea Pod grocery delivery service because I couldn't walk through the grocery aisles and often times there was not a scooter available. When we traveled or if I needed to walk for any distance, I used a wheelchair. I was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and either adapt our Cape house or move to a Ranch. I had to drink liquids through a straw because I was at risk for choking and had to do a chin tuck and dry swallow when I ate to avoid aspiration of food into my lungs.

But look at me...look at me...look at me now!

I am a runner. I ran the 2009 Boston Marathon and many 5 and 10K races through the years. I ran the Hyannis Half Marathon in 2009.



Here's one of my favorite running adventure moments in August of 2014:


After a serious knee injury in December of 2014, I was told that I would not and should not run again and to prepare for a total knee replacement in a few years.

But look at me now....I ran 3 consecutive Bermuda Half Marathons in 2016, 2017 and 2018.


I had to take time off from racing after 3 consecutive Bermuda Half Marathons to heal and to get my mojo back. For someone who was supposed to be in a wheelchair, I was, however doing remarkably well.

On July 3, I had an epic comeback race, "The Harvard Pilgrim Finish at the 50 5K"





While there are residual hand tremors, they are mild and I do need to be mindful as I eat, especially if I am feeling stressed, but I am able to walk up and down the stairs in my house with ease. I run at least twice a week, strength train twice a week and swim once a week. My body is resilient thanks in large part to regular chiropractic treatments with Dr. Lizzie Sobel and to a regular meditation practice during which I harness the power of the mind/body connection to maintain the momentum of my healing.

When once I experienced chronic pain and fatigue, I now experience vitality.

My quality of life has dramatically improved since that dark night of my mind, body and soul before, during and for a brief period of time after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, deemed by Western Medicine to be a progressive neuromuscular disease!

My purpose and passion in life is to share this miraculous journey of healing and to say look at me now...

that is not all oh no that is not all!

From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and "Feel the Heal" and "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953" are available in Natick Center Cultural District at Paula Romero Dunbar's Celebration Boutique Paper Fiesta coincidentally located on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon Route. Proceeds from the sale of books for July are being donated to The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation to support Tom's Falmouth Road Race. You can also donate directly by following this link.

Beyond the Finisher's Mat!

Tom and I rarely purchase photos from a race especially if we have taken photos and video along the way but I felt compelled to purchase a few of our Finish at the 50 photos from Capstone Photography



The reactions on Facebook to this photo and the video of Erin and I finishing the race


filled me with gratitude, delight and happiness.

Twelve years ago, when I set out on this to heal my life from the effects of paralytic polio and trauma, I truly had no idea where the path would lead. It led to the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon:


and while it was a moment of redemption for me, I knew deep in my soul that it was a moment that was far greater than me.

My story of healing, hope and possibility and my journey of transformation touched and continues to touch people's hearts and souls in profound ways.

As Dave McGillivray wrote in his book review for "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953":
A most unlikely runner stood to my right as I gave the oral command for the mobility impaired start of the 113th Boston Marathon on April 20, 2009. That most unlikely runner was Mary McManus. She overcame the childhood challenges of paralytic polio and years of childhood trauma to become a runner at the age of 53 years old and take on the challenge of the Boston Marathon at 55 years old. In “The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953” you’ll be inspired as I have been by her courage, resilience and determination to overcome whatever obstacles life put in her path. Mary’s life story set against the backdrop of running in “The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953” will leave you asking the question, “If Mary was able to accomplish all that in the face of seemingly overwhelming odds, what’s stopping me from being the best I can be?”

The cheers and outpouring of messages applauding my Finish at the 50 race feel wonderful but what is even more wonderful is the inspiration I bring.

At the age of 65 years old, I am still running strong taking on the challenge of running the ramps at Gillette Stadium for an evening race in the heat of summer. Heat and evening are typically not a good combination for someone living with neuromuscular challenges but that didn't stop me. People know that and they were inspired by the look of determination and persistence on my face.



Beyond the finisher's mat, I am still feeling the glow of that evening which was so much more than a race! Beyond the finisher's mat I reflect on the presence of angel Joseph Middlemiss and the blessing of being a part of Team Big Heart. Beyond the finisher's mat, I am reminded of how the body achieves what the mind believes, the power of believing in myself and my body's tremendous capacity to continue to heal. Beyond the finisher's mat, I am in awe of these past 12 years and the adventures I have been blessed to experience through running.

Beyond the finisher's mat I am deeply grateful for all the joy my body brings and the friendships forged through the sport of running.

Beyond the finisher's mat, I am happy with a wonderful feeling of accomplishment and blessed that I can inspire others with what I achieved.

From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and "Feel the Heal" and "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953" are available in Natick Center Cultural District at Paula Romero Dunbar's Celebration Boutique Paper Fiesta coincidentally located on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon Route. Proceeds from the sale of books for July are being donated to The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation to support Tom's Falmouth Road Race. You can also donate directly by following this link.

A Celebration of Choices - A Celebration of Chance

As the fireworks display illuminated the night sky over Gillette Stadium after the Finish at the 50 races, I felt as though it was the Universe helping me celebrate the choices I made since the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006.





The first choice I made as I stood on the crossroads of my life was to get still and ask for Divine Guidance. The answer came in the form of a poem, "Running the Race." Poetry flowed out of me as though a spigot had been turned on in my soul. I imagined myself running free, feeling healthy and whole, dancing in the rain without a leg brace. My poetry focused on gratitude and forgiveness, well-being and expressed a profound connection to the Divine that I first experienced at the age of 5 after contracting paralytic polio.

I chose to quit my award winning career at the VA with the love and support of my husband to heal my life, dedicating myself to transcending a horrific past and transforming my life mind, body and soul. Chance led me to an incredible spine doctor who referred me to an angel of a physical therapist. She helped me to find the courage to take that leap of faith and led me to believe I could and would get stronger. I was not destined to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair!

When chance brought a personal trainer into my life, I chose to see if there was any way I could build on the program I received at Spaulding Rehab Outpatient Clinic.

From "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953":
Shortly after being discharged from outpatient physical therapy I met Janine Hightower through Herb Simmons. He knew Janine through his participation in the Cardiac Rehab program at Boston Medical Center. I was launching my business New World Greeting Cards, original poetry for every occasion. She was a member of BNI, a professional networking group. As we sat in my living room, she talked about BNI and the benefits of being a member of this networking group. As she talked, I wasn’t focused on growing my business. My mind zeroed in on her sharing with us how she used BNI to promote her in home personal training business.

“You know I’m curious,” I said to Janine. “Do you think you could help me? I was just discharged from Spaulding Rehab.”

I went on to tell her about my journey.

“I don’t know,” she said “but I’d certainly be happy to set up an assessment with you.”

I couldn’t even pass the initial fitness assessment.

“You’re way too young to not be able to get off of the toilet seat without holding on to the sink or to not be able to get off of the couch,” she said to me.

It was a statement of fact without judgment. She spoke the truth about my deconditioned physical state. I signed on to work with her once a week in personal training. I had no idea what or why I was doing this. I did know that if I was going to be in pain, I’d prefer to feel the pain of recovery instead of the pain of decline. Janine held enough faith for both of us that I could come out of my leg brace and have a good quality of life despite the diagnosis and prognosis I received.

Janine’s mantra for our work together was a quote from Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right!”

At my six-month evaluation in February, I made dramatic improvements in every area of the assessment. I had come out of my leg brace. I knew I was on a healing path.

“Let’s write down your goals for the next six months,” Janine said feeling proud and satisfied with my progress.

“Well I want to feel free in my body. I want to dance. I want to be able to walk outside and feel unencumbered when I take a walk.”

Janine feverishly wrote down my goals, and we worked out a plan. She gathered up her belongings and had her hand on the door knob.

“Wait. I have one more goal.”

Janine stopped and turned around.

“I want to run the Boston Marathon for Spaulding Rehab Hospital. I know they have a Race for Rehab team and I want to do it next year.”

Did you ever have one of those moments when words fell out of your mouth after rising up from the depths of your soul without going through any thought process?

Janine was non-plussed. I don’t know what kept her from turning tail and getting as far away from me as she could. She came back into my house, set down her things and without missing a beat said, “Well the first thing you are going to need is a pair of running shoes.”

"I did know that if I was going to be in pain, I’d prefer to feel the pain of recovery instead of the pain of decline."



I chose a path of pain, discipline and courage venturing into the unknown and doing so against medical advice. I was admonished with "If you use it, you will lose it" based on an outdated belief that the body cannot regenerate nerves and muscles.

After I ran the Boston Marathon in 2009, I was once again told I needed to not run anymore. Fortunately, as chance would have it, I met another wonderful physical therapist who told me I needed to take a break from running and helped me heal from the rigors of marathon training. I chose to return to the sport I had come to love and that was my medicine to heal the once devastating effects of paralytic polio and severe childhood trauma.

On July 4, 2010, I ran the Inaugural Harvard Pilgrim Finish at the 50 10K.

Fast forward to December 2014 when I suffered a very serious knee injury that the physiatrist, physical therapists, aquatics therapist and anyone who was not a runner in my circle said would be the end of my running days.

From 'The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953':
I went on line to get my MRI results before my appointment with Dr. Rosenberg in early January of 2015. The report indicated that I did indeed have a very badly torn meniscus and degenerative joint changes, bone spurs, a fatty lipoma, joint changes from multiple surgeries and fatty infiltrates into the left medial gastroc muscle as a result of denervation. That didn’t sound good but I know how appearances can and are deceiving. I remembered how I dissolved a breast tumor and rewired my entire body through the power of visualization. I transcended my past. I transformed from a survivor of paralytic polio to a woman who goes the distance on the roads and in my life.

Tom came with me for me follow up appointment. I didn’t betray to Dr. Rosenberg that I had already read my report. I listened as he told me the findings.

“Well we already knew you had an atrophied gastroc muscle from the polio. There’s nothing you can do about that. There is not enough cartilage to repair if you have arthroscopic surgery. I can tell you in all likelihood you are going to need a total knee replacement in a few years. You know my thoughts about running. I think you know my recommendation Mary. You really shouldn’t be running but if you are going to run please cap your distance. No more than a 5K. I am going to give you a prescription for physical therapy. I’d like to also highly recommend that you please come back to the Post-Polio clinic for a new evaluation. You know it’s only a matter of time before things start to progress again. Don’t overdo it!”

As I left the clinic with my prescription in hand, I watched myself making a follow up appointment for a re-evaluation with “the team.” I wasn’t sure that’s what I really needed.

As chance would have it, I had a physical therapist from hell BUT a chiropractor healer, Dr. Ryan J. Means was put in my path. I chose to partner with him, determined to get back on the roads.

On July 3, 2015, I had my comeback race: The Harvard Pilgrim Finish at the 50 5K.

By chance, I met the Race Director for Bermuda Marathon Weekend.

I chose to once again defy a diagnosis and prognosis and go against medical advice, going with Divine Guidance and went on to run 3 Consecutive Bermuda Half Marathons.

I could have chosen to stop racing at the finish line of the 2018 Bermuda Half Marathon but this February, there was a stirring in my soul.

On July 3rd, I experienced all the magic that is Finish at the 50:



I crossed another finish line 12 and a half years after being told I "had" a progressive neuromuscular disease and should plan to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair.

I smiled as I looked down at this year's Finish at the 50 race shirt that I wore to the beach this weekend:


2010-2019 ... a lot of choices and a lot of "chance" happenings that led me to exactly where I'm supposed to be inspiring others with my message of healing, hope and possibility!

Now that's something to celebrate!

From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and "Feel the Heal" and "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953" are available in Natick Center Cultural District at Paula Romero Dunbar's Celebration Boutique Paper Fiesta coincidentally located on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon Route. Proceeds from the sale of books for July are being donated to The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation to support Tom's Falmouth Road Race. You can also donate directly by following this link.

Finish at the 50 Race Report: Part 3 - Mission Accomplished

During these past 12 years of healing the effects of paralytic polio and severe childhood trauma, I have discovered that my mission in life is to inspire others with what I have been able to achieve and my transformation from a survivor of a horrific past to a runner and a woman who embodies strength, courage, resilience and faith!

After running 3 Bermuda Half Marathons and with the stress of our daughter's severe psychiatric illness, I took a long hiatus from toeing a starting line of a race. In February, I felt a stirring in my soul.

I can always count on Race Director Dave McGillivray to respond to my pre-race emails asking about his races! He told me there was no time limit for the race and that there were usually quite a few walkers who sign up for Finish at the 50.

After 11 years of being a part of the sport of running, I have finally embraced Dave's mottos of "My race, my pace ... My game, my rules!"



I was well trained when I lined up at the back of the pack at Gillette Stadium. Part of my mission for this race was to represent Team Big Heart: The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation's running Team.



We gathered pre-race and I could feel the love flowing among us!

I was amazed at how many walkers lined the 100 level concourse at Gillette Stadium and how, among the nearly 3000 runners, Dave McGillivray found us and thanked us for running!



It took us 8 minutes to cross the starting line. As we watched runners streaming out of the Stadium, I had to remind myself that there is no time limit and if, by chance, I didn't make it to the finish line in time to get my medal, I know the Account Executive for Ashworth Awards, John Breen, who I knew would hook me up.

I knew there was magic and synchronicity in the air and that my mission to represent Team Big Heart had begun at the starting line. Linda, the clinical coordinator for the Cardiac Cath Lab at Boston Childrens Hospital stood behind us and we shared a goosebump moment at the synchronicity that brought us together. While we were out on the course, I inspired Linda and her sister Rachel with my story.

I had no idea that there was another mission in store for me that day; to be a cheerleader for Erin Boudreau as she struggled with the heat of the day.

After she asked us if we were from Dracut noticing our Team Big Heart shirts, I just knew we were going to finish the race together despite her urging us to go ahead.

Somewhere between a little before mile 2 and the finish line, a friendship was forged, kindness shared and heart prints left on our hearts.

After I posted the video that Tom took on Facebook after I uploaded it to YouTube, Erin posted:

Thank you for being such great cheerleaders for me!! You guys were heaven sent just when I needed you
So thankful for my new friends! ❤️ thankful for you both for choosing to be kind❤️all you need is love!



I told Erin what a gift she gave to me by helping me to not push too hard in the heat and get all competitive with myself. She helped me to go beyond myself and being concerned about my finishing time and allowed me to experience the joy of being on the giving end of the runners code of leaving no runner behind!

Some may think that the glory of the finish line lies in breaking the tape or even having a great time according to the clock. And yes I will admit that I was very proud to have had 113 runners finish after us and to be 72/81 in my age group F60-69. I was thrilled that the announcer was praising the back of the pack runners for finishing strong.

But there's another kind of glory that happens at the finish line. There's glory in toughing out a challenge and not giving up. There's glory in transcending limitations and being open to possibility. There's glory in going the distance and achieving goals. There's glory in sharing kindness. And there is a wonderful feeling of glory of being able to say, mission accomplished!



From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and "Feel the Heal" and "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953" are available in Natick Center Cultural District at Paula Romero Dunbar's Celebration Boutique Paper Fiesta coincidentally located on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon Route. Proceeds from the sale of books for July are being donated to The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation to support Tom's Falmouth Road Race. You can also donate directly by following this link.

Finish at the 50 Race Report: Part I - Signs and Synchronicity

In my Countdown to Finish at the 50 blog the day before the race, I wrote:

I am thinking about how much fun Tom and I are going to have together finding our way around the new course and pretending, as we often do in a race where we don't know the course, that we are part of The Amazing Race.

I am thinking tomorrow is going to be filled with sweet surprises and serendipity as I allow the Universe to weave its magic.

I am thinking how I am going to enjoy every moment while anticipating crossing that finish line of a race I haven't run in 4 years celebrating my freedom from the past and independence from circumstances that once claimed a terrible toll on me mind, body and soul.

As we sat in Gillette Stadium waiting to get to the start of the 2019 Harvard Pilgrim Finish at the 50 5K, a Facebook friend who I had not yet met in person came up to us. "Team Big Heart!" Nicole exclaimed with a broad smile. "Have you seen Scott yet?" We introduced ourselves and just as she looked around, Scott was going to pick up his bib to run the 10K. She followed him into the building and we gathered for a Team Big Heart photo:



Scott presented her son Caleb with a Team Big Heart shirt. Caleb has been the recipient of a Martial Arts Scholarship from The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation and now wants to run for them and raise money for the Foundation! It was his first 5K. We found each other without technology!

While Tom and I were taking our pre-race selfie at the start with another runner friend, we heard, "I'm not in the pictcha." I thought it was some random runner teasing us about our selfie. "I'm not in the pictcha," he said even louder exaggerating his Boston accent. "Well then get in the pictcha" I said out loud.

Tom finally turned to see who was saying this and it was none other than Dave McGillivray! He had over 3000 runners to attend to with his team from DMSE yet here he was greeting us at the starting line with his son Luke. Dave ran the Boston Marathon for Team Big Heart and has a very special place in his heart for Jack and the Middlemiss family.



He thanked us for running and said he'd see us later.

While waiting at the start, we saw this sign:


I was getting pre-race butterflies when I hear, "Excuse me. I work at Boston Childrens Hospital in the cardiac cath lab."

We turned around and shared our connection to the Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation.

"I'm getting goosebumps," Linda Dumont said to me.

"Me too...all over."

Linda is the surgical coordinator for the cardiac catheterization lab where Jack goes for his post-transplant procedure to make sure his heart is working well. She knows, as so many people do, the story of Joseph, Kate, Scott, Jack and Grace.

The Star Spangled Banner was sung and the runners were off! We were at the back of the pack and watched the stream of runners ahead of us pour out of the Stadium. The New England Patriots Cheerleaders were there as we hit the start mat.

We descended the ramps and there was Sheryl with her Canadian crutches taking on the Finish at the 50 four years later. You can read about our 2015 Finish at the 50 by following this link.

"Stay with me Mary and keep a steady pace," Tom said.

We found ourselves next to Linda and her sister Rachel as we followed the course around the parking lot. We shared stories of health and wellness journeys. At the first water stop which was beyond mile 1, I said that I was going to slow down at the water stop. They went ahead of us.

I allowed Tom to pace me and given the heat, I knew better than to push my pace. My goals were to have fun and finish!

As we entered the stadium, we began our ascent of the ramps.

"Are you from Dracut?" a woman asked us.

She noticed our Team Big Heart shirts.

"No" and we went on to tell her about our connection to the Middlemiss Family.

She knew all about the Middlemiss Family and the Foundation and has attended their ScoopFest! She missed it this year because her son, 7 years old, was inpatient at Childrens. He was born prematurely and Erin shared with us how she supports and advocates for and with parents who are going through experiencing premature babies!

She told us that she sent her husband ahead to run his own race but was struggling in the heat.

"I didn't know how I was going to do this but I looked up and saw Jack and Joe."

More goosebumps!

We stayed together and she suggested at different points we go ahead of her but we'd always wait for her. I knew we were going to finish together. The ramps combined with the heat made for a very challenging time but together we cheered each other on sharing labor and delivery stories, my journey back from Post Polio and trauma and my knee injury in 2014 and of course the Middlemiss Family. Tom made sure we took breaks if I didn't initiate them and also stopped to take photos:



What a relief to finally descend the ramps:


As we exited the Stadium, we saw the 10K runners at the start of their race. Scott gave us a high five and Erin's friends cheered her on!

The excitement began to build as we knew the finish line was close!

Tom took this video to capture our triumphant finish:


I was so impressed that the announcer was acknowledging the back of the pack runners as finishing strong...and we certainly were!

Erin said she couldn't thank us enough for being there to support her. I told her what a gift and a blessing she gave to us. I told her that I tend to get competitive with myself and not listen to what my body needs. Being able to be there with her allowed me to run a safe and happy race basking in the glow of signs and synchronicity.

She was embraced by her husband and friends who had run the 5K and we parted ways as we got our bling.



Tom and I had dinner at Skipjacks.

We were debating what to do before the Fireworks display and were walking back and forth before finally deciding to go to our car and get changed into dry t shirts.

We walked into the space to get the Elevator and there were Linda and her sister again. We chatted about the race and in walks Erin with her entourage. "I was just talking about you to my husband..." We exchanged last names and became Facebook friends....



To be continued...

Let freedom ring!

From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and "Feel the Heal" and "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953" are available in Natick Center Cultural District at Paula Romero Dunbar's Celebration Boutique Paper Fiesta coincidentally located on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon Route. Proceeds from the sale of books for July are being donated to The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation to support Tom's Falmouth Road Race. You can also donate directly by following this link.

Countdown to Finish at the 50: What Am I Thinking?

It's almost here! Tomorrow is Race Day!

I always feel a myriad of emotions before toeing a starting line and tomorrow's race brings a lot of excitement, a little bit of anxiety and exhilaration!

Tom and I will get to sleep in; no alarm! We will have the next 5 days together. He's not on call and has everything well organized to take some much deserved time off.

Being the OCD kind of person I am, I have a list of things we need to bring since gun time isn't until 6:30pm. I've planned out where we will have lunch and made dinner reservations for after we cross that finish line and get our bling!



Shortly after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, in October of 2007, I met a personal trainer.

From 'The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953':
Shortly after being discharged from outpatient physical therapy I met Janine Hightower through Herb Simmons. He knew Janine through his participation in the Cardiac Rehab program at Boston Medical Center. I was launching my business New World Greeting Cards, original poetry for every occasion. She was a member of BNI, a professional networking group. As we sat in my living room, she talked about BNI and the benefits of being a member of this networking group. As she talked, I wasn’t focused on growing my business. My mind zeroed in on her sharing with us how she used BNI to promote her in home personal training business.

“You know I’m curious,” I said to Janine. “Do you think you could help me? I was just discharged from Spaulding Rehab.”

I went on to tell her about my journey.

“I don’t know,” she said “but I’d certainly be happy to set up an assessment with you.”

I couldn’t even pass the initial fitness assessment.

“You’re way too young to not be able to get off of the toilet seat without holding on to the sink or to not be able to get off of the couch,” she said to me.

It was a statement of fact without judgment. She spoke the truth about my deconditioned physical state. I signed on to work with her once a week in personal training. I had no idea what or why I was doing this. I did know that if I was going to be in pain, I’d prefer to feel the pain of recovery instead of the pain of decline. Janine held enough faith for both of us that I could come out of my leg brace and have a good quality of life despite the diagnosis and prognosis I received.

Janine’s mantra for our work together was a quote from Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right!”

At my six-month evaluation in February, I made dramatic improvements in every area of the assessment. I had come out of my leg brace. I knew I was on a healing path.

“Let’s write down your goals for the next six months,” Janine said feeling proud and satisfied with my progress.

“Well I want to feel free in my body. I want to dance. I want to be able to walk outside and feel unencumbered when I take a walk.”

Janine feverishly wrote down my goals, and we worked out a plan. She gathered up her belongings and had her hand on the door knob.

“Wait. I have one more goal.”

Janine stopped and turned around.

“I want to run the Boston Marathon for Spaulding Rehab Hospital. I know they have a Race for Rehab team and I want to do it next year.”

What was I thinking?

But it was through the power of thought; through the mind/body connection and the power of visualization which came often times in the form of poetry) that I was able to train for and run the Boston Marathon despite having had absolutely no prior running experience!

I wasn't thinking; I felt a call from Spirit that moved me to set that goal.

And it is that very call from Spirit that continues to nudge me along in this amazing quest to heal the effects of paralytic polio and trauma and inspire others with what's possible.

I am thinking about how wonderful it's going to be to spend the day with Tom getting in the zone (an apt metaphor since we finish on the 50 yard line at Gillette), having a wonderful lunch at Patriot Place and meeting up with fellow Team Big Heart members. I am thinking about how I run swift and with ease and remembering that training run on Heartbreak Hill when it all came together.

I am thinking about how resilient I am and how much courage it takes for me to toe a starting line as a back of the pack runner.

I am thinking about how many people I have inspired and how many lives I have touched with my journey.

I am thinking about how much fun Tom and I are going to have together finding our way around the new course and pretending, as we often do in a race where we don't know the course, that we are part of The Amazing Race.

I am thinking tomorrow is going to be filled with sweet surprises and serendipity as I allow the Universe to weave its magic.

I am thinking how I am going to enjoy every moment while anticipating crossing that finish line of a race I haven't run in 4 years celebrating my freedom from the past and independence from circumstances that once claimed a terrible toll on me mind, body and soul.

I am thinking and knowing that I CAN!

Counting down to Finish at the 50 5K: 1 day 3 hours 40 minutes and counting!

Let freedom ring!

From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and "Feel the Heal" and "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953" are available in Natick Center Cultural District at Paula Romero Dunbar's Celebration Boutique Paper Fiesta coincidentally located on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon Route. Proceeds from the sale of books for June and July are being donated to The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation to support Tom's Falmouth Road Race. You can also donate directly by following this link.

Countdown to Finish at the 50: Monday Memories

Yesterday was Billy Mills 81st birthday. I was trying to remember how I first came to know about Billy and his epic upset at the 1964 Olympics and how he harnessed the power of his mind and beliefs to earn Gold. I suppose that I picked it up in my Facebook news feed early on in my career as a late life runner.

Billy's method of visualization and race preparation hit a chord deep within my soul.

When I was training for my Finish at the 50 comeback race in July of 2015, this video became a regular staple for me:


From "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953":
Armed with affirmations, Kinesio tape, meditations, faith, strength, courage and determination, writing poetry to fuel my journey and a new strength training exercise regimen, I got back on the roads. I trained for my comeback race: the 2015 Finish at the 50 on July 3. Tom was my pacer. We trained through heat, humidity, and in the evening to simulate race day conditions. He was my greatest supporter and cheerleader and helped me run my race at my pace coming back strong and steady after the knee injury that “they” said would sideline me.

The Source

Wellspring of joy flows deep within soul
rising surprisingly healing brokenness whole.
Thawing and melting magnificence made new
cleansing congestion reveals radiance True.
Miracles arise from this sacred space
fears and pain transformed by Your Loving Grace.
Running and laughing happiness free
a raucous rampage a celebration spree.
Grounded sure footed it's time fancy fine
Divine Love a waterfall cascading spine.

Fools were blind to this treasure so rare
unstoppable unceasing heart open to share.

The joy in the journey a sight to behold
the glory my triumphs I run brave and bold.
Each footstep each mile transformed and made new
a champion reborn glorious Spirit shines through.

“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” ~Socrates

Advice from Olympian Billy Mills June 10, 2015

“The subconscious mind cannot tell the difference between reality and imagination ... Relive the moment the way you want it to be.” ~Billy Mills Olympic Gold Medalist 10000 meter Tokyo 1964

Heading out on my training run, I wanted to break that elusive 16:00 minute/mile pace that had been with me since I returned to the roads in March. It was in my mind's eye last Saturday but it didn't happen. I'd been watching Billy Mills’ YouTube video as I retrain myself as a runner. I've been keeping a healing journal writing affirmations as Billy Mills did when he had the biggest upset in Olympic history. I wanted to write in my training journal a 5K run with a sub 16:00 minute/mile pace. To be honest, I was afraid to write it down in case I missed my mark. I know you have to be willing to commit 100% to goals. I continue to clear out the messages from doctors and therapists who discouraged me from running or pushing myself. There was a part of me that didn't want to "fail" if I wrote down the goal and fell short. Although I couldn't commit to writing down the goal, I made a shift in my thoughts before I went on my run.

I reminded myself that I am a runner. I imagined Forrest Gump, Wilma Rudolph and Billy Mills. When I get out of my own way and allow the transformation to happen, I am fearless when it comes to setting and achieving goals. I thought about Dr. Joe’s work in "You Are the Placebo." Instead of focusing on the how, why or what of breaking the 16:00 minute/mile pace, I focused on a PR for my race on July 3rd. I decided to set the goal and just let it happen. I reminded myself of how I felt in 2010 breaking PR after PR by setting my mind and intention squarely on the outcome. I visualized finishing on the 50 yard line at Gillette. I ran and flowed from the inside out. I could tell when my mind strayed from working coherently with my body and I reeled it right back in. As I trained my body, I tamed my mind. I felt a side stitch and nausea, and reminded myself to run from my soul. I allowed the beautiful image of being an elegant runner within me to emerge.

I did not look at my time but had every confidence that I was running a sub 16:00 minute/mile pace. I believed it with every fiber of my being and asked the Universe to work with me to just make it happen. I have been strength training and cross training while working with my beliefs about running and setting goals. Dr. Joe writes about the importance of coherence between the mind and body. During today’s run, I kept coming back to feeling everything working together. I placed all of my physical, mental and spiritual energy into the outcome I wanted for today's training run.

It happened! My fastest pace since 9/20/14 and 1 minute and 46 seconds within striking range of my 46:53 PR at the Bill Rodgers 5K in August.

***46:52*** is the time I want to see on the clock when we cross the finish line at the Finish at the 50 on July 3rd. I believe in setting goals not limits. I know how amazing it feels to open up this body and run as well and as fast as I possibly can. I'm back feeling strong and confident as a runner. When doubts or fears rear their head, I can outrun them. I'm retraining myself mind, body and Spirit for speed and endurance.

Success breeds success. Seeing an average pace of 15:33 with splits of 15:44, 15:14 and 15:47 (the last mile had a hill!) made me smile from ear to ear.

While I did not hit a PR that day, it was an incredibly magical and mystical day.

I met a Facebook friend who was struggling with a flare of her autoimmune disease but after meeting me, felt inspired to go out and give it her all. Before the race, I suggested to her that she visualize how she felt in her body on her best race day.

From "Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance:"

Then I met up with Mary McManus and her husband Tom. An amazing couple so full of love, life and faith! When I spoke my doubts aloud, Mary said to me, "Don't focus on your doubts, instead visualize your last best race." That's what I did. I got into the zone of my last 10k that I PR'd. I got into a rhythm with the crutches I didn't even think possible. I ran with Aidan and together we took off. Wonder Woman and Superman (referencing their costumes of the day) finished so strong. I reached my runners high, that pain free bliss where I was invincible! Someday, I will run another marathon! Yesterday reminded my brain of that! The brain fog is clearing and while it may still take a while to get there, I am on the right path. I am not alone on my journey! You did amazing!!!! I cannot express how thankful I am to both you and your husband. From each touch giving me positive healing energy, to every sweaty hug! The impact you had on my family was so amazing and incredible! I am sorry you didn't hit your PR but what you did yesterday will remain forever in the memories and hearts of our family. Love and relaxation for a great holiday week to you both!

And THIS happened from "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953":
Anthony Raynor and Clarence Smith had me at hello at the Bermuda Marathon Weekend Booth at the Finish at the 50 Expo. Tom started chatting with Clarence "Stoker" Smith. I hung back but cocked an ear to the conversation. I gingerly eyed the pink Bermuda wrist bands, the bling from Bermuda Marathon Weekend races and the samples of pink sand. I glanced at Tom and felt we each had a tug at our souls. The tug got stronger with each moment we talked with Clarence and Anthony. We reminisced about when we went to Bermuda. I felt goosebumps and a warm feeling come over me, while a part of me was wondering why was I even having this conversation about running in Bermuda. Several months ago I was told to cap my distance and prepare for a total knee replacement.

“If you can get up to the Half Marathon distance, you’ll be better off than running the 10K with all of its steep hills,” Anthony said in his delicious Bermudian accent.

“The last time I was in Bermuda I was in a leg brace using a cane and a wheelchair.”

Clarence's wife said, "Look at you now girl."

There was no stopping me now. We exchanged information. Clarence told us he'd pick us up at the airport. I chatted with Anthony about the weather in January.

"Look," he said with a deep warm laugh, "I was told you people still have piles of snow near the Seaport Hotel from this past winter. I can guarantee you this. You will have no snow in Bermuda in January."

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails.” ~Mark Twain

It was time to sail away from safe harbor and go the distance again. This time on the magical Island of Bermuda.

“Running is about finding your inner peace and so is a life well lived. Run with your heart.” ~Dean Karnazes

I ran the Inaugural Finish at the 50 10K on July 4, 2010.

On July 4, 2011, we ran the 10K with a friend we met through an online running community.

I took a running hiatus after the death of my nephew by suicide in 2011. After returning to the roads in 2014, I set my sights on getting back to Finish at the 50. Little did I know it would become my comeback race and a turning point in my healing odyssey.

My goals for Wednesday's race are to have fun, finish and give the best performance I can.



I've put in all the training. I know what this body can do when I get out of my own way and allow my body to run.

I have many magical memories from Finish at the 50. I am excited to create more magical memories on Wednesday!

Counting down to Finish at the 50 5K: 2 days 4 hours 14 minutes and counting!

Let freedom ring!

From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and "Feel the Heal" and "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953" are available in Natick Center Cultural District at Paula Romero Dunbar's Celebration Boutique Paper Fiesta coincidentally located on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon Route. Proceeds from the sale of books for June and July are being donated to The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation to support Tom's Falmouth Road Race. You can also donate directly by following this link.

Countdown to Finish at the 50 5K: What Makes Mary Run?

Last Saturday, I ran Heartbreak Hill simulating race day for the 2019 Finish at the 50 5K. After that run, I knew I was ready and it was time to go into taper time.

It's been four years since I last ran The Finish at the 50 5K. That was an epic race for me, coming back after a serious knee injury in December of 2014 that 'they' said would sideline me and result in a total knee replacement in a few years. It was the race where I met the Race Director for Bermuda Marathon Weekend and went on to run 3 consecutive Bermuda Half Marathons.

It has taken me awhile to recover fully from Bermuda Half Marathon 2018 after running two previous half marathons and to get my bearings in relationship to severe family stress with our daughter's unrelenting psychiatric illness. but here I am poised and ready to toe the starting line.

During a 2 mile easy run around Castle Island this morning, I pondered on the question, what makes me run?



I was spent after that all out run on Heartbreak Hill and a nagging knee soreness returned. I am completely recovered from that run and had to rein in my pace today as I felt fabulous running around the Castle at Castle Island while Tom got in his 7 miles training for The Falmouth Road Race to benefit The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation.

I reflected on how much I love the ebb and flow of training; testing the limits of what my body can do and then pushing a little farther, taking time for recovery and then feeling the excitement build toward race day.

I am incredibly grateful for all that my body gives me and for my resilience.

I came to the sport of running at the age of 54 declaring that I was going to run the 2009 Boston Marathon. It was a prompting from Spirit for how else would someone go from having been told they would spend the rest of their life in a wheelchair to the sport of running? I discovered a sport where I could be unapologetically me and be celebrated for my courage to overcome the diagnosis of a progressive neuromuscular disease.

When I run and push my body, I feel fully vibrant and alive. As Dr. George Sheehan said:


I love how the sport of running gives me a sense of belonging to a community that uses running for good, for health, for wellness, for joy and for freedom as we break the shackles that bind and connect to something greater than ourselves:


And when I run and after a run, I feel a sense of contentment deep in my soul.



Counting down to Finish at the 50 5K: 2 days 22 hours 8 minutes and counting!

Let freedom ring!

From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and "Feel the Heal" and "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953" are available in Natick Center Cultural District at Paula Romero Dunbar's Celebration Boutique Paper Fiesta coincidentally located on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon Route. Proceeds from the sale of books for June and July are being donated to The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation to support Tom's Falmouth Road Race. You can also donate directly by following this link.