A most unlikely runner stood next to Dave McGillivrey as he gave the oral command at the mobility impaired runners start of the 2009 Boston Marathon. I was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease at the of age of 53 in December 2006, and told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair. I refused to take the diagnosis sitting down. I discovered the healing power of poetry and the mind/body connection. I went on to have many running adventures. Once unable to exercise, I share a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities touting the benefits of being active outdoors whatever the weather. I am the author of 6 books, been featured on Channel 7 news, many podcasts and radio shows, on Mike Reilly’s Stories From the Finish Line, and shared the stage with Bill Rodgers at the Hyannis Marathon. I was a panelist on “Late Life Running – Whole Life Running” at the 2020 Virtual Boston Marathon Expo. I love inspiring others with what’s possible.
Mary McManus
