Podcast appearances and mentions of mary mcmanus

Mary McManus has never had it easy.  As a kindergartener, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced.  She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life.  Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon.    Chapters: 01:05 Meet Mary McManus  Mary McManus is introduced as a remarkable individual with a story of resilience and triumph over adversity.   02:14 Mary's Early Challenges  Mary shares her early life experiences, including her diagnosis of polio at a young age and the impact it had on her family dynamics. Despite her paralysis, she describes a profound spiritual connection that provided her comfort during this challenging time.  08:09 The Road to Recovery Mary recounts her journey through physical therapy and the support she received from dedicated professionals who helped her regain mobility.   12:08 Finding Purpose in College  In college, Mary discovers her passion for helping others while working in the counseling center.   16:08 A Career with Veterans  Mary shares her experiences working with veterans at the VA, highlighting the challenges they faced upon returning from Vietnam  17:02 The Diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome  Mary discusses her diagnosis of post-polio syndrome nearly 50 years after her initial polio diagnosis, detailing the physical and emotional challenges she faced.   22:59 Turning Pain into Poetry  In a moment of introspection, Mary turns to poetry as a means of healing and self-expression. This creative outlet not only provides relief from her pain but also sparks a new chapter in her life.  24:21 From Poetry to Running  Mary shares her transformative journey from writing poetry to setting an ambitious goal of completing the Boston Marathon  29:01 Rebuilding Strength: The Journey Begins  Mary shares her initial struggles with physical fitness post-therapy, highlighting her determination to regain strength. With the support of her trainer, she sets ambitious goals, including a desire to run the Boston Marathon.  31:34 The Training Journey: From Walking to Running  Mary describes her gradual transition from walking to running, emphasizing the importance of patience and support from family during her training.   35:03 Facing Doubts: The Mental Challenge of Marathon Training  As the Boston Marathon approaches, Mary reflects on the mental hurdles she faces, including moments of doubt. However, her unwavering belief in her ability to complete the race, supported by her trainer and family, keeps her focused.  38:10 The Emotional Finish: Crossing the Marathon Line  Mary recounts the emotional experience of running the Boston Marathon, including the support from friends and family along the course. She describes the overwhelming joy and healing she felt as she crossed the finish line.  39:57 Life After the Marathon: Trials and Triumphs  After the marathon, Mary faces new challenges, including personal loss and health setbacks, yet she remains resilient.   44:33 Resilience Through Adversity: The Power of Poetry and Running  Mary discusses her experiences during the pandemic, including health challenges and the therapeutic power of writing poetry. Despite setbacks, she finds motivation to continue running and sets new goals for herself.  46:44 Looking Forward: Embracing New Challenges  As Mary reflects on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of resilience and gratitude in overcoming life's challenges. With plans to run a half marathon again, she inspires others to pursue their goals, regardless of obstacles. 

Welcome to Hilary Topper on air. Today we will explore pivotal moments in medical history and their lasting impact on our world today. We will be delving into the story of polio—a disease that once gripped the world with fear and has since become a symbol of the power of vaccines. We'll discuss the polio epidemics of the 1940s and 50s, the groundbreaking vaccines that led to its decline, the emergence of post-polio syndrome, and the current status of polio globally. Polio in Children In the mid-20th century, polio was a name that struck fear into the hearts of families worldwide. This highly infectious disease, caused by the poliovirus, would often lead to paralysis and even death, predominantly affecting children. The epidemics of the 1940s and 50s were particularly severe, with thousands of cases reported annually in countries like the United States. Public pools were closed, and parents kept their children away from crowds, hoping to protect them from this invisible enemy. How it Impacted Me I talk about this topic because it actually affected me personally. You see, my mother, Phyllis Kahn Mass was a polio victim. Her parents thought she got it from a public pool. She was the only one in her class to have it and she was hospitalized for more than a year in an Iron lung. Iron Lung For those of you unfamiliar, the iron lung is a type of negative pressure ventilator, a mechanical respirator that was widely used in the mid-20th century, particularly during the polio epidemics. It was a large, horizontal cylinder that encases most of a patient's body, leaving only the head exposed. The device worked by varying the air pressure inside the cylinder to stimulate breathing, effectively assisting patients who have lost control of their respiratory muscles due to conditions like polio. The iron lung was invented by Philip Drinker and Louis Shaw in 1928 and became a crucial tool for treating respiratory failure caused by polio. During the polio outbreaks of the 1940s and 1950s, iron lungs were a common sight in hospitals, helping patients with paralyzed diaphragms breathe. Although largely obsolete today due to modern ventilators and the near eradication of polio, the iron lung remains an iconic symbol of the era. My Mother I remember my grandmother telling me that she went to the hospital every day but was unable to go near my mother because she had to wear a type of hazmat suit, in fear that she and my grandfather would carry the disease. My uncle was a little boy. He stayed with various relatives. When my mother finally got out of the hospital and came home, all of the friends she once had, were gone. They wanted nothing to do with her or her family. Everyone was a victim. A year or so later, they moved from the Bronx to Long Beach, Long Island. In 1955, Dr. Jonas Salk, developed the first effective polio vaccine. This injectable, inactivated vaccine was a breakthrough in medical science, offering hope to millions. A few years later, Dr. Albert Sabin introduced an oral vaccine, which became widely used due to its ease of administration and effectiveness. These vaccines drastically reduced polio cases, turning the disease from a public health crisis into a manageable condition. March of Dimes I remember my mother telling me about the march of dimes and how important they were to her. The March of Dimes, originally known as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, played a crucial role in the fight against polio. Founded by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1938, the organization was instrumental in funding research and supporting the development of the polio vaccine. Through widespread fundraising efforts, including the famous "March of Dimes" campaign, the organization raised significant funds to support scientists like Dr. Jonas Salk, who developed the first effective polio vaccine. This vaccine, announced in 1955, led to a dramatic decline in polio cases and was a pivotal moment in public health history. The March of Dimes' efforts not only helped eradicate polio in the United States but also set the stage for its ongoing mission to improve the health of mothers and babies. While the vaccines were successful in curbing new infections, many who had survived polio were left with lasting effects. Decades later, these individuals began experiencing new symptoms, a condition now known as post-polio syndrome (PPS). PPS manifests as muscle weakness, fatigue, and joint pain, occurring years after the initial recovery from polio. It's believed to result from the gradual deterioration of motor neurons that were previously damaged and then repaired during the original polio infection. Post Polio Although, polio has been nearly eradicated, thanks to the continued efforts of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which began in 1988. Through comprehensive immunization campaigns, polio remains endemic in only a few regions. However, vigilance is key, as outbreaks can occur if vaccination efforts wane. The fight against polio continues, with a focus on reaching every child to ensure a world free from this disease. The disease unfortunately still affects those who were victims in their childhood. Although their symptoms improved and many were released from the hospital, when they reached middle age, the symptoms returned as post polio syndrome. Post-polio syndrome, or PPS, is a condition that can develop many years after a person has recovered from polio. It's estimated that a significant number of polio survivors experience PPS, where they encounter new symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and joint pain. This syndrome arises because the motor neurons that were once damaged and adapted to regain function gradually deteriorate over time. This deterioration leads to the recurrence of symptoms, often affecting mobility and quality of life. Listen in to the rest of the podcast as I also interview Mary McManus, MSW, Author of A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From the Heart of a Warrior, available on Amazon. Mary was also inflicted with the disease and now lives with Post Polio Syndrome. Special Thanks: To our sponsors for making this podcast possible -- The Russo Law Group, Vimazi shoes, Medi-Dyne, and PlayTri.

Mary McManus shares her story of going thru Post polio syndrome to running the Boston Marathon. Mary shared her story in “A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From the Heart of a Warrior”, Mary takes you through her magnificent journey of transformation with poetry and narrative that will uplift and inspire you. After a setback in 2021/2022 and, after a 6 year hiatus from participating in events, Mary set her sights on tackling the Bermuda hills in the 2024 10K celebrating 17 years of healing, and her 70th birthday intent on sharing her powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities! Email me at Justarunner65@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/justarunner/support

Mary McManus contracted paralytic polio at the age of 5. She recovered from the paralysis, but the disease had a lasting impact on her ability to move. This led to taunting and teasing from other children, especially when it came to physical activities.  In addition to experiencing the difficulties of polio, Mary experienced physical and sexual abuse from her father, who began to abuse alcohol when she was eight. She would also come to discover that her mother had an addiction to prescription pain medication. While Mary credits the love and support of adults outside of her family for helping her through these dark times, the traumatic experiences of polio and her home life took years to overcome.  And that is what Mary's story is all about, overcoming and healing. Persevering through times of darkness and struggle, with a strong belief in her ability to heal. Which is where Mary focused her energies, becoming a social worker for the VA, a wife and a mother, and ultimately, a marathon runner. Running entered Mary's life in her 50s, after a diagnosis of post-polio syndrome. And, she continues to go after running goals to this day, at the age of 70. Mary's story is powerful: about healing and never giving up, and how it is never too late to start a running journey that just might change your life. Keep Up with Mary McManus Instagram: @mary_mcmanusrunnergirl Facebook: facebook.com/mary.mcmanus.507 Website: marymcmanus.com To support WRS, please rate and review the show iTunes/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/womens-running-stories/id1495427631 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4F8Hr2RysbV4fdwNhiMAXc?si=1c5e18155b4b44fa Music Credits Cormac O'Regan, of Playtoh Grand Project, via Pixabay Coma-Media, via Pixabay penguinmusic, via Pixabay SergePavkinMusic, via Pixabay Lidérc Bell, via Pixabay chillmore, via Pixabay Ways to Connect and Engage with Women's Running Stories Instagram: @womensrunningstories Instagram: @over50sub20_5k_project Facebook: facebook.com/WomensRunningStories Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/444164966663627 Website: womensrunningstories.com Email host Cherie: clouiseturner@gmail.com Women's Running Stories is a proud member of the Evergreen network: https://evergreenpodcasts.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Inspiration From the Heart of a Warrior.Get all the news you need by listening to WBZ NewsRadio 1030 on the free #iHeartRadio app! Or ask Alexa to play WBZ NewsRadio on #iHeartRadio.

For ASSURED Season 2, we are unpacking homeschool exhaustion and exploring different perspectives and possibilities for how you can personally recharge. In this episode, you are going to hear part of the RECHARGE Virtual Summit All-Access conversation I had with Mary McManus & Stephanie Owens. You can listen to the full conversation at https://homeschoolteachingsimplififed.com/recharge Make sure to FOLLOW the show to catch all 12 perspectives for how you can personally recharge. Recharge Virtual Summit Recordings: homeschoolteachingsimplified.com/recharge Connect with Natalie: natalie@homeschoolteachingsimplified.com Melanin Mamas Homeschooling's Free Gift: What's the Plan Prep Sheet https://www.melaninmamashomeschooling.com/downloads

Join us on episode 56 for lovely Mary McManus as she shares her remarkable and inspiring story of hope and unimaginable possibilities that she made happen after being diagnosed with Post Polio Syndrome and being told she would live the rest of her life in a wheelchair. But at the age of 53, Mary wasn't going to let that happen and she started doing something for the very first time in her life, Run. However before she could start that journey, she needed to get a pair of running shoes first.Mary's Blog Mary's WebsiteMary's BookLinktree - Find everything hereInstagram - Follow us on the gram YouTube - Subscribe to our channel Patreon - Support us Email us at OnTheRunsPod@gmail.com

Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic.

Into the Light: Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic with Mary McManus As you begin reading “Into the Light: Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic” you will be drawn into Mary McManus' unique perspective of experiencing a world pandemic as one who contracted paralytic polio in one of the last epidemics in the United States. Mary's revelations about her struggles with whether or not to receive the vaccine despite sharing on the local news she planned to receive it after her husband received his, reveals Mary's tender heart and ability to be vulnerable. She shares how the pandemic unearthed traumatic memories from her tumultuous childhood after polio and will leave you asking the question, “How has Mary been able to live life with an attitude of gratitude, hope, optimism and faith after all the challenges she endured.” Mary's poetry and essays chronicling 18 months of emerging from the 2020 pandemic is woven with her valiant and inspiring story of healing her life after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December 2006. Mary's beautiful journey provides a road map to discover the light in all of us. Mary McManus, motivational speaker, critically acclaimed author and poet, 2009 Boston Marathon finisher, and polio and trauma survivor has a remarkable story of resilience, healing, hope and possibilities. She is celebrating 15 years of healing after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease! Mary contracted paralytic polio in one of the last polio epidemics in the United States. She endured years of abuse at the hands of family members from the age of 8 until 17 when her father ended his life. She managed to become High School Valedictorian and was elected to Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit Honor Society when she received her MSW from Boston College. At the age of 53 years old, her life came to a screeching halt. She was at the height of her award-winning career as a social worker at the Boston VA Outpatient Clinic having received awards from the Blinded Veterans Association, the Ex-POW's, Employee of the Month and Social Worker of the Year. She was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease and was told to prepare to spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair. She was three years shy of being eligible for retirement. Mary refused to take the diagnosis sitting down. Her pen became her divining rod for healing harnessing the power of the mind/body connection through poetry. She embarked on a journey that took her from taking a leap of faith, leaving behind her career as a VA social worker, to the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon, and many adventures as a woman transformed through the sport of running. Out of the rubble of her past, Mary dug deep to discover the treasure of who she was always meant to be. Her Spirit shines with brilliant resilience as she conquered every challenge going the distance on the roads and in her life. Mary speaks to the power of forgiveness, gratitude, love, hope and optimism when confronting life's challenges. Mary is the author of the critically acclaimed, “Hope is a Garden: Poems and Essays From the 2020 Pandemic”, “Into the Light: Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic,” “Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life,” and her Trilogy of Transformation that chronicles her health and wellness journey. Mary has shared her story on many podcasts and radio shows, including the award-winning Exceptional Women radio show. Mary was featured on Boston's Channel 7 after her inspiring Boston Marathon run, is featured on the Heal Documentary website and in best-selling author Dr. David Hamilton's book, “The Tenth Anniversary Edition of How Your Mind Can Heal Your Body.” She has shared her journey on Bernie Siegel, MD's Mind/Health Matters Show and most recently was a guest on the Los Angeles Tribune Show, “All Things Rex Worldwide.” Mary holds a BS in Communications from Boston University, an MSW from Boston College and many fond memories of her veterans and their families who blessed her life when she worked at the VA. Call In and Chat with Deborah during Live Show: 833-220-1200 or 319-527-2638 Learn more about Deborah here:  www.lovebyintuition.com

The Power of Stories with Mary McManus In Episode #3 Look for the Good, Carrie opens the show with a discussion about the power of stories...why we tell them and how we can get stuck in our own stories. We all know someone that tends to tell the same story over and over, right? It's common because oftentimes we forget to reflect on the outcome of our stories --how the stories affect not only us, but everyone around us.  You will gain a better understanding of your own stories, types of stories and the gifts that are often born from our worst stories.  Carrie talks about the power of looking for the good in our seemingly bad story and how everyone loves to feel empowered by a good comeback story. She will talk about the birth of the "turnaround story" and how when you are in the middle of it, it's sometimes hard to see the outcome of these life changing narratives. Stay tuned for the second half of the show when she introduces special guest Mary McManus, a brilliant author, polio survivor, marathon runner and Mom who was told that she should start to prepare to spend the rest of her life in a  wheelchair. Imagine that? You won't believe how she danced her way to one of the most incredible turnaround stories ever that will empower you to live your own life with more creativity, gratitude and passion. You don't want to miss this one!! Tune into Dreamvisions 7 Radio Network on Monday September 5th at 5am and 5pm to hear Look for the Good! Learn More about Carrie here: https://carrierowan.com/

Join Host Buzz Knight and author and motivational speaker Mary McManus as they take a walk in Brookline Massachusetts. Mary has a powerful story of resilience after many health and personal challenges with the help of mind/body connection. 

This is a teaser for an upcoming episode releasing later this week of takin a walk with Mary McManus. This is a story of resilience and hope from this amazing motivational speaker and author. 

If you need some inspiration do not miss this episode. Truly an amazing story of overcoming a diagnosis to triumph and set an incredible example.

Despite vaccination, at the age of five, Mary McManus was diagnosed with Polio and was paralized from the neck down. Over time, Mary was able to regain movement, succeed in school, and pull herself above an abusive home life, only to be struck down again many years later with post-polio syndrome. “I've got to choose,” says Mary. “Am I going to be in pain on the side of just withering away for the rest of my life? Or am I going to feel pain on the side of healing? I chose to feel pain on the side of healing.” Facing the impossible, Mary set a lofty goal. She wanted to run the Boston Marathon. And, through passion and determination, she succeeded. Mary has written five books, including her most recent book of poems, Hope is a Garden. You can learn more at marymcmanus.com. #liveyourbestlife If you have a guest idea, or want to learn more about Brunner Communications, contact Liz at info@LizBrunner.com. To join our mailing list and never miss any of Liz's stories, tips and techniques, click here.

Despite vaccination, at the age of five, Mary McManus was diagnosed with Polio and was paralized from the neck down. Over time, Mary was able to regain movement, succeed in school, and pull herself above an abusive home life, only to be struck down again many years later with post-polio syndrome. “I've got to choose,” says Mary. “Am I going to be in pain on the side of just withering away for the rest of my life? Or am I going to feel pain on the side of healing? I chose to feel pain on the side of healing.” Facing the impossible, Mary set a lofty goal. She wanted to run the Boston Marathon. And, through passion and determination, she succeeded. Mary has written five books, including her most recent book of poems, Hope is a Garden. You can learn more at marymcmanus.com. #liveyourbestlife If you have a guest idea, or want to learn more about Brunner Communications, contact Liz at info@LizBrunner.com. To join our mailing list and never miss any of Liz's stories, tips and techniques, click here.

Sean O'Conlain and Caroline Whyte speak with Mary McManus, who has worked in the Welfare Rights Advice sector in Belfast for over 20 years, and from Seán Mc Cabe, the Executive Manager of the Climate Justice Centre of TASC, the Irish-based Thinktank for Action on Social Change, about the potential offered by Community Wealth Building.

Hope is a Garden: Poems and Essays from the 2020 Pandemic with Mary McManus How do you hold onto hope in the midst of a pandemic? How do you hold onto hope when civil unrest, tyranny and violence dominate the headlines? In Hope is a Garden: Poems and Essays from the 2020 Pandemic, polio and trauma survivor Mary McManus, MSW inspires us with her wisdom and poetry chronicling her experiences during an unprecedented time in American History. About the Author: Mary McManus, MSW has known challenges throughout her life beginning at age 5 when she contracted paralytic polio in one of the last polio epidemics in the United States. She endured years of abuse at the hands of family members from the age of 8 until 17 when her father ended his life. At the age of 53 she was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease and was told to prepare to spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair. She refused to take the diagnosis sitting down. Her pen became her divining rod for healing harnessing the power of the mind/body connection through poetry. She embarked on a journey that took her from taking a leap of faith leaving behind her award winning career as a VA social worker to the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon, and many adventures as a woman transformed through the sport of running. Out of the rubble of her past, Mary dug deep to discover the treasure of who she was always meant to be. Her Spirit shines with brilliant resilience as she conquered every challenge going the distance on the roads and in her life. Mary is the author of Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life, her Trilogy of Transformation that chronicles her health and wellness journey and Hope is a Garden: Poems and Essays from the 2020 Pandemic. Mary holds a BS in Communications from Boston University, an MSW from Boston College and many fond memories of her veterans and their families who blessed her life when she worked at the VA. She lives in Chestnut Hill Massachusetts with her husband, Tom, and their lovely cat Jamie. https://www.marymcmanus.com https://hopeisagarden.blogspot.com/ ​Learn more about Dr. Bernie here:  http://berniesiegelmd.com/

Meet an indomitable, courageous woman who didn’t take a difficult diagnosis sitting down.  Marathoner Mary McManus can inspire us all! About the host: Jordan Rich has been a voice-over artist for nearly four decades. He has been featured on thousands of commercials and narrations for many well known clients, including The Boston Symphony Orchestra, The Boston Pops, Sullivan Tire, Liberty Mutual Insurance, Broadway in Boston, Fidelity Investments, Boston Scientific, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital and countless others. He has also had a long and fruitful on-air radio career in Boston on such popular stations as WRKO and WSSH. For the last twenty plus years, he has worked on air at news and talk leader WBZ. Learn more at www.chartproductions.com.

We are lucky this week to have guest Cricket Goodall, Executive Director of the Maryland Horse Breeders Association and Executive Director of Maryland Million, Ltd., talk about her Preakness memories and the Pimlico controversy.  We were also joined by very special guest Mary McManus Guba, daughter of the late, great Jim McKay, famed sports broadcaster.

Host Frankie Picasso, interviews Mary McManus on FrankieSense & more..Mary McManus contracted paralytic polio at the age of 5 and even later in life, when she was diagnosed with Post Polio Syndrome in December 2006, by May 2007, Mary took a leap of faith leaving behind her award winning career as a Social Worker at the VA to heal her life. Her doctors told her that her near future included a wheel chair but in 2009, Mary ran the 2009 Boston Marathon at the age of 55. Once known as “Easy Out Alper” in gym class she was as far a cry from that misnomer as one could get. Mary’s quest to heal her life led her to the sport of running that tested her mettle while fueling her journey of transformation from a survivor of to a woman who embodies faith, grace under fire, courage, determination, endurance and resilience.She went on to run many more races and half marathons, proud at 62 to have run the Bermuda Marathon twice.

What you'll hear in this episode: Poem Running the Race from "Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life" Mary's Going the Distance Blog One person's healing becomes an entire family's journey to run the Boston Marathon Pointing toward the Bermuda Half Marathon - Roman Numeral III  Introduction and closing song: One Flame to Burn (Prospect 7)    A special thank you to my friend Kelly Anderson for sponsoring today's episode through Patreon.   If you would like to comment on this podcast you can contact me and leave a comment at:   My google voice number which will go to a voicemail: 804-496-1112 Email me at: r.keithcartwright@gmail.com You can financially support this mission at my Patreon Page - TwoTim47   Visit my TwoTim47.com website: TwoTim47.com

Mary McManus contracted paralytic polio in 1959 at the age of 5, suffered domestic violence and abuse to age 17. And that's just the beginning of Mary's story. Listen to us have an amazing conversation about the course of her life and her refusal to let circumstances define her. Life truly is a marathon, and Mary has journeyed well! Listen on iTunes or Listen to/download this episode here: About Mary: Mary McManus grew up in Westchester, NY and contracted paralytic polio in 1959 at the age of 5, during one of the last polio epidemics in the United States. She was at the height of her 20 year award winning career as a social worker at the VA when she was diagnosed with post polio syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease. She did not take the diagnosis of post polio syndrome sitting down. She embarked on a healing odyssey that began with a leap of faith as she left her social work career to heal her life and to follow her new found passion as a poet and writer. The first poem she penned in February of 2007 was "Running the Race," a foreshadowing of her 2009 Boston Marathon run. Her pen became her divining rod for healing. Mary is a 2009 Boston Marathon finisher, blogger, the author of 5 books of inspirational poetry and her memoir, "Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing, Hope and Possibility.” In her latest book, “Journey Well,” Mary rewrites the story she tells in her memoir. The facts of her past are unchanged but the pain and terror are healed. She holds a BS in Public Relations from Boston University, an MSW from Boston College and many fond memories of her social work career at the VA in her heart. She is enjoying her retirement and delights in running, swimming, fund raising, writing and sharing her inspirational journey. Mary was gracious enough to continue our conversation after this portion of the podcast ended. We had a very special conversation about the writing of her new book, Journey Well, and how important it is to give yourself the gift of time when healing from a physical or emotional injury. This recording is available exclusively to members of  the LIAM Life Coaching Community. Please consider joining this life-changing group! Mentioned in this show: Mary McManus: www.marymcmanus.com Mary's book on Amazon.com LIAM Team Life Coaching Community Subscription/Social Links: Subscribe on iTunes! Subscribe on Stitcher Radio! LIAM on Twitter: @LifeIs262 LIAM on Facebook / LifeIsAMarathon Subscribe to the LIAM Mailing List www.BruceVanHorn.com Bruce Van Horn on Twitter Bruce Van Horn on Facebook    

Mary McManus contracted paralytic polio in 1959 at the age of 5, suffered domestic violence and abuse to age 17. And that's just the beginning of Mary's story. Listen to us have an amazing conversation about the course of her life and her refusal to let circumstances define her. Life truly is a marathon, and Mary has journeyed well! Listen on iTunes or Listen to/download this episode here: About Mary: Mary McManus grew up in Westchester, NY and contracted paralytic polio in 1959 at the age of 5, during one of the last polio epidemics in the United States. She was at the height of her 20 year award winning career as a social worker at the VA when she was diagnosed with post polio syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease. She did not take the diagnosis of post polio syndrome sitting down. She embarked on a healing odyssey that began with a leap of faith as she left her social work career to heal her life and to follow her new found passion as a poet and writer. The first poem she penned in February of 2007 was "Running the Race," a foreshadowing of her 2009 Boston Marathon run. Her pen became her divining rod for healing. Mary is a 2009 Boston Marathon finisher, blogger, the author of 5 books of inspirational poetry and her memoir, "Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing, Hope and Possibility.” In her latest book, “Journey Well,” Mary rewrites the story she tells in her memoir. The facts of her past are unchanged but the pain and terror are healed. She holds a BS in Public Relations from Boston University, an MSW from Boston College and many fond memories of her social work career at the VA in her heart. She is enjoying her retirement and delights in running, swimming, fund raising, writing and sharing her inspirational journey. Mary was gracious enough to continue our conversation after this portion of the podcast ended. We had a very special conversation about the writing of her new book, Journey Well, and how important it is to give yourself the gift of time when healing from a physical or emotional injury. This recording is available exclusively to members of  the LIAM Life Coaching Community. Please consider joining this life-changing group! Mentioned in this show: Mary McManus: www.marymcmanus.com Mary's book on Amazon.com LIAM Team Life Coaching Community Subscription/Social Links: Subscribe on iTunes! Subscribe on Stitcher Radio! LIAM on Twitter: @LifeIs262 LIAM on Facebook / LifeIsAMarathon Subscribe to the LIAM Mailing List www.BruceVanHorn.com Bruce Van Horn on Twitter Bruce Van Horn on Facebook    

In this episode, we discuss Mary McManus’ healing journey from post polio syndrome, her experience rediscovering running, and the inside scoop on her upcoming memoir.

Please join the Unstoppable Frankie Picasso and guest Mary McManus on Tuesday, March 23rd at 8:00 pm for another Misson Unstoppable. Mary is a Boston Marathon finisher, inspirational speaker, published poet, entrepreneur & former award winning social worker who turned adversity on its head after being diagnosed with post polio syndrome in December 2006. Mary was only 5 years old when she was first diagnosed with Paralytic Polio, the result of a polio vaccine and the end to a 'normal' childhood. Not only did Mary have to deal with the heartache of leg braces and funny shoes, but her home situation was another cross to bear- her mother was addicted to prescription painkillers and her father an abusive alchoholic.. Mary creditsa a caring physical therapist, a dedicated physiatrist and being touched by grace for her ability to walk again. Today she feels God's presence in everything she does. Also joining us this evening is Dr Sheean,director of the Neuromuscular Division in the Department of Neurosciences at the University of California, at San Diego.