Celebrating Ten Years of Running: On Turtles and The View From the Back of the Pack

On Saturday's 5K run around the Chestnut Hill Reservoir, we paused to take this picture of turtles on the rock:


Seeing the turtles gave me pause to research the turtle as an animal totem:

The turtle is a symbol of longevity, endurance, persistence, and the continuation of life (sometimes against incredible odds). The turtle is a sacred figure in Native American symbolism as it represents Mother Earth.

The turtle symbolism is characterized by the association with the Earth and earth symbols of groundedness and patience:

Symbol of the world, of the Earth
Ability to stay grounded, even in moments of disturbances and chaos
Slowing down, pacing yourself
Determination, persistence
Emotional strength and understanding
Ancient wisdom

The turtle is also linked to the spirit of the water and the fluid nature of emotions.

And gave me pause to reflect on how some of my most special moments in running came because I was a back of the pack runner.

I almost DNF'ed my first 5 mile race; the Marathon Sports 5 miler. It was hot and humid and an evening race in the early days of my recovery from the effects of paralytic polio and childhood trauma. I wanted to quit but Tom wouldn't let me. There was no one else that we could see in front of us or behind us except for the sweep vehicle. At the time I didn't even know what a sweep vehicle was because it was only my 2nd road race in July 2008. When we arrived at the finish, the air horn was blowing and we were celebrated as though we had broken the finisher's tape!

Running in the back of the pack in Bermuda in 2016 gave me a wonderful view of the two leaders in the Marathon battling it out since it was an out and back loop.

I've met some of the most amazing people in the back of the pack where I've discovered "everyone has a story."

I'm not always a back of the pack runner. It depends on the field, how I am feeling on any particular day and what my race goals are for the day.

Right now, I'm with the turtle on the roads and in life while I take a break from racing while I continue to heal and recover from 3 Bermuda Half Marathons in as many years.

This morning Tom and I had a spectacular morning run despite the chill in the air and headwind. The Reservoir on Route 9 is blooming. My heart opens with the opening of the buds overflowing with gratitude that I can celebrate 11 years of healing from the effects of paralytic polio and trauma AND celebrate ten years of running. I did a negative split between miles 1 and 2 and ran strong coming up the hill. I am tuning my body to shorter distances now feeling ecstatic that I overcame my challenges ready to greet and embrace new goals.



It's my pace and my race and slow and steady wins the race!

To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours,
Mary

Proud to be a part of Friends of Blue Diamond Athletic Displays, Inc.

Be sure to visit my website by following this link.

My books are available on Amazon.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


And my latest and greatest book - Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):

Celebrating Ten Years of Running: The Gift of Being Part of the Greatest Sport

At the starting line of the 2016 Hyannis Marathon Weekend, I asked Bill Rodgers, how is it that with baseball or football fans can't get anywhere near the big names in the sport but here we are standing together. At the traditional pre-race pasta dinner for Hyannis, runners are able to receive expert advice and support from the best of the best. "Why is that?" I pondered with Bill who has been a great supporter of mine in my running career. "That's why we are the greatest sport," Bill replied.

I came to the sport of running late in my life. How did I ever live without running being a part of my life?

Before I wrote the poem, "Running the Race" after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome I never imagined in my wildest dreams that I would ever run or be an athlete of any kind. I was a stranger to athletics as a survivor of paralytic polio and severe childhood trauma. My mind, body and soul were shattered by disease and violence BUT certainly not beyond repair.



Running became my medicine, my therapy, and I became a part of a community that was a marked contrast to the life I knew as a survivor of paralytic polio and trauma at the hands of family members. Rather than being taunted, teased and jeered, I was cheered on as I trained for the 2009 Boston Marathon and beyond.

This weekend is a great weekend for racing. I have friends competing in 5K's, 10K's, marathons, triathlons and Ironman. The World Triathlon Series is happening in Bermuda and The Royal Gazette streamed the race live. What a thrill to watch the race going through neighborhoods familiar to me having run 3 consecutive Bermuda Half Marathons and then to see hometown favorite and elite athlete Flora Duffy execute a flawless race. Three Norwegians who were not favored to win swept the medals in the Men's Elite competition.

My Bermudian friend, Jamie-Lee Wright who was my earth angel at mile 12 in 2017 and I chatted via Facebook and the excitement intensified as she told me she was a course marshall. She sent a photo of Flora going by her on the bike.

Tomorrow I will spectate Tom running the James Joyce Rambler.

Today, Tom and I went out for a 5K.



We had outstanding weather conditions. I was able to wear short sleeves and capris for the first time in a very long time. It was my best time in weeks with negative splits between miles 2 and 3. I felt well as my hip and groin continue to recover from having pushed myself to the edge running 3 Bermuda Half Marathons in as many years.

I don't know what I did before running was a part of my life. It's more than a sport and it is the greatest sport. It is community, it is health and wellness, it is competition, trials and triumphs, tribulations and comebacks and it is a way of life as Joan Benoit Samuelson eloquently stated:


Today was a day to celebrate my ten years of running and the gift of being part of the greatest sport.

To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours,
Mary

Proud to be a part of Friends of Blue Diamond Athletic Displays, Inc.

Be sure to visit my website by following this link.

My books are available on Amazon.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


And my latest and greatest book - Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):

Flashback Friday: A Return to the Boston College Campus for a "Last Lecture"

I had a moment in time in August of 2014 when I returned to the Boston College Campus for the Bill Rodgers 5K Run/Walk to Benefit Prostate Cancer.

Last night I returned to the Boston College Campus again ....

Tom forwarded the email to me from Alpha Sigma Nu and the Center for Ignatian Spirituality:
Dear BC Community:
If granted the opportunity to give a last lecture, what would you say? What wisdom would you impart to the world if you knew this was your last chance? What would you want as your legacy?

The Last Lecture series invites faculty who, in different moments of their career, dare to reflect about their lives and respond to these questions.

This year, Professor Clare O'Connor of the Biology Department will present Genes, Love and Serendipity: A Biologist Reflects, where she will examine forces that direct the course of our lives.

"All of us inherited a 'blueprint' in our DNA, but DNA is only part of the story. The broader story of a career is a complex story that includes community, faith and serendipity."

We invite you to join Professor Clare O'Connor, Biology Department on Thursday, April 26, 5:30 - 6:30 PM in Gasson Hall 305 (The Debate Room).


I couldn't RSVP because I wasn't the original recipient of the email. Tom emailed the organizers mentioning that I am a member of Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit Honor Society. I received the honor during my final year in the Boston College Graduate School of Social Work. One of the organizers, Adeline, said she would be delighted to have me attend.

Professor O'Connor wove together her professional and personal paths showing us the beautiful tapestry of her life guided by serendipity, love and choices she made.

It gave me pause to reflect on the serendipity and choices Tom and I have made that brought us to this moment in time.

Tom and I met on a blind date. One of my good friends, Mary Fitzpatrick and one of Tom's good friends, Marty said that we had to meet. This was before cell phones and Facebook. We took a chance and let serendipity lead the way. Here we are 41 years later, having just celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary.

I wasn't sure what I wanted to do for a career. I received my undergraduate degree in PR and Communications from Boston University. I worked at the BU Counseling Center as an Intake Coordinator and PR person. The director told me that I had a gift for interacting with the students and suggested that I pursue a career in counseling. I needed a fast track for a graduate degree and applied to Social Work schools. I opted for Boston College. One of my professors nominated me for induction into Alpha Sigma Nu for Scholarship, Loyalty and Service. What an honor!

It was quite remarkable to connect with the administrators for Alpha Sigma Nu on the BC campus last night and to feel the energy of academia remembering the wonderful education I received. One of the administrators, Adeline is going to add me to the email list for future events. Professor O'Connor emphasized the importance of community in our lives. While enjoying a post-lecture dinner at Oath Pizza, we reflected on how blessed we are to be a part of so many wonderful communities and connected to people who believe in doing good in the world.

After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, I took a leap of faith leaving my award winning 20 year career as a VA social worker to heal my life. I returned to my roots as a writer and followed my bliss in my new found gift as an inspirational poet.



Tom had many jobs in technology through the years and we both imagined the ideal next job for Tom that aligned with his values. Three years ago he was hired as a Systems Administrator at Boston College. It's 10 minutes from our home and he works with a wonderful team. A few minutes into the lecture, Tom mentioned to me that his boss, Mike, the Executive Vice President for IT walked in. Professor O'Connor brought together technology and science on the BC campus! I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Tom's boss and felt the circle of life surrounding us. Professor O'Connor beamed with pride when she shared with us that Mike gave her a jacket similar to the one Tom was wearing that had the insignia of the BC IT Department on it.

Life can be quite magical and elegant in the way the tapestry of our lives are woven. The Universe presents opportunities and we make choices and then, we connect the dots as we look back to see what we have co-created with the Divine.

To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours,
Mary

Proud to be a part of Friends of Blue Diamond Athletic Displays, Inc.

Be sure to visit my website by following this link.

My books are available on Amazon.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


And my latest and greatest book - Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):

Celebrating Ten Years of Running: I'm Now Off the Sidelines

Excerpt from "Running the Race", the first poem I penned after being diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome:
Using wheelchair to travel, set limits on what I could do,
resulted in joy to realize I could live life anew.
Celebrated my body- creaks, groans and need for a brace
While in my mind I focused on winning a 10K race.

Sought out paths for healing and my spirit flew free
for the first time in life, I could truly be me.
The chains are gone and possibilities abound
I'm a tree with my roots planted firmly in ground.

I'm now off the sidelines, no need to sit and whine
So much gratitude fills my heart and love and beauty shine.
After all these years I can join the loving human race
I exceed all expectations and now I set the pace.

I wrote that poem while I was using a wheelchair at times for mobility having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, using a leg brace and a cane to support mobility in the wake of childhood paralytic polio and violence at the hands of family members. Why then would I be writing a poem about running a race?

As Carl Jung said, "The unconscious prepares the way for the future," and my unconscious mind was expressing itself through my pen, my divining rod for healing. This poem foreshadowed my 2009 Boston Marathon and so many wonderful running adventures during these past 10 years.

After crossing the finish line of the 2018 Bermuda Half Marathon, I experienced a sense of completion and fullness in my running adventures for distance running. My body felt as though I needed to take a break after my 2nd consecutive Bermuda Half but I pushed the envelope after receiving an invitational entry from Race Director Anthony Raynor.

I am recovering well but know I need to take time off from racing given that I experienced hip, groin, and back issues as a result of the grueling training and pushing myself beyond my limits. It was worth it!

I get to be a spectator for awhile but unlike other times when I've been recovering on this amazing healing odyssey, I don't felt an itch and a drive to get back in the game. I no longer feel left out or feel that I am sidelined. I'm really excited to cheer on Tom and my friends as they run their races at their own paces which, at the moment, are much faster than mine.

I'm back to two runs a week and once the hip/groin pain completely resolve (the back issues are completely resolved) I'll begin to work on speed again.

Even though I will be a spectator at several upcoming races, I am off the sidelines - so filled with gratitude for all I have achieved and experienced and all I am yet to achieve and experience while relishing this time of recovery and healing.

I'm celebrating ten years of running and excited for what the next ten years will bring!

To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours,
Mary

Proud to be a part of Friends of Blue Diamond Athletic Displays, Inc.

Be sure to visit my website by following this link.

My books are available on Amazon.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


And my latest and greatest book - Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):

Celebrating 10 Years of Running and National Poetry Month

Ten years ago I began my illustrious running career by training for the 2009 Boston Marathon. I'd never run a day in my life. I'd been diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease and told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair. After getting still and asking for Divine Guidance, the answer to my prayers came in the form of a poem .... and then many poems poured out of me in which I imagined myself as healthy, whole, free, running unencumbered and transformed from a survivor of paralytic polio and trauma to an empowered woman who goes the distance on the roads and in my life.

Marathon Metamorphosis

Pounding pavement, feeling strength the journey now begun
training for the race of my life a 26.2 mile run.
Feeling God in every step in every beat of my heart
I undertake this challenge as a new chapter of my life I start.

I ran around in circles carrying baggage by the ton,
destination was survival hardened shell let in no one.
Fear and worry doubts prevailed, adrenaline in my veins
a headless horseman running wild no one to take the reins.

Stopping in my tracks I froze no longer could I move -
clawing, fighting had to cease there was nothing more to prove.
God's grace touched like a magic wand, a softness and a glow
emerging from a troubled past my blood began to flow.

Loving teachers lit the way their love a healing balm -
focusing on who I am now brings a sense of calm.
Stretching every muscle feeling God in every cell
wholeness now a blessing out of prison - no more hell.

The race is still a year away each day my dream I see
mind, body, spirit tuning turning toward the Voice of Thee.
Flexing what had once been stiff to brace against the pain
old habits die and I'm reborn to write a new refrain.

And when the starting gun goes off poised with strength and grace
the thunder of the running feet will help me set my pace.
But the starting line's the finish my race already won
achieving the impossible preparing for this run.

The healing power of self-love and faith to spark the flame
transformed me from a victim once filled with so much shame.
Unearth my buried treasures my inheritance I find
connected to my Loving God in my heart and mind.

And when I cross the finish line the greatest cheer of all
has been this magnificent journey of answering God's call.


Between the weather and my recovery from my 3rd consecutive Bermuda Half Marathon, Tom and I had not been out on an early morning run together since late last year. I'd been doing only one run a week and used the stationary bike at the gym for a cardio workout. But with the sun shining and Spring poised and ready to make its appearance in Boston, I could not bear to go to the gym for my workout.

Tom and I set the alarm for 6:00am. We meditated, did our core work, had a piece of toast and water and went out the door to our beautiful and beloved reservoir on Route 9.

We listened to the birds singing and noticed the beautiful yellow daffodils. The purple wildflowers lined the path poking their heads out from the grass bed.

I have to be very mindful of my pace these days as my hip and groin continue to recover from the rigors of training and running 3 Bermuda Half Marathons in as many years. Tom is great at reeling me in. I could see and feel in my mind's eye that 12 minute/mile pace that is my ultimate goal for short distances.

I am deeply grateful and blessed for the joy of movement at any pace especially on a glorious Spring morning.



I'm celebrating ten years of running and going strong ... and to think it all started with a poem.

To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours,
Mary

Proud to be a part of Friends of Blue Diamond Athletic Displays, Inc.

Be sure to visit my website by following this link.

My books are available on Amazon.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


And my latest and greatest book - Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):

Celebrating National Poetry Month: Flashback Friday - Nine Years Ago Today!

There is a unique energy surrounding the Boston Marathon that you can’t help but feel. It includes every runner and every person along the course. It brings every person there together as one. ~Amy Hastings

Nine years ago today, I ran the Boston Marathon! While that is a great claim to fame for anyone, I was a most unlikely person to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon. In December of 2006, I was given the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine Standards. It was a result of the effects of having contracted paralytic polio at the age of 5 followed by severe childhood trauma.

In February of 2007, as life as I had known it came to a screeching halt I got still and asked for Divine Guidance. The answer to my beseeching prayer of 'what now' came in the form of a poem:
Running the Race
Early summer 1959 my kindergarten year
everyone around me filled with nervous fear
despite the Salk vaccine hope polio would disappear
the polio virus crept right up and knocked me in the rear.

Dancing all around the gym feeling free just like a bird
I dropped to the ground just like a stone and no one said a word.
The pain it was so searing-the diagnosis even worse
"It's polio" the doctor said...he was abrupt and terse.

Called one of the 'lucky ones' I had a 'mild case'
but with the other athletes I could never keep their pace.
Miss Holly physical therapist, curly hair and a warm, broad smile
it tempered the pain of being apart - to walk I'd take awhile.

I always wore those 'special' shoes the kids they poked and teased
With no support and much abuse with childhood I wasn't pleased.
But put nose to the grindstone and learned all that I could
I couldn't kick a ball but my grades were always good.

Years went by and no more thought to polio did I give
I accepted the limp and everything else and decided my life I would live.
But symptoms of weakness and muscle pain did grow
I kept a stoic face hoping no one else would know.

Life no longer was my own I struggled through each day
Suffered in silence, isolated from friends- trying to keep depression at bay.
And with the grace of glorious God my world it opened wide
I discovered there was a Post Polio team and they were on my side.

Using wheelchair to travel, set limits on what I could do,
resulted in joy to realize I could live life anew.
Celebrated my body- creaks, groans and need for a brace
While in my mind I focused on winning a 10K race.

Sought out paths for healing and my spirit flew free
for the first time in life, I could truly be me.
The chains are gone and possibilities abound
I'm a tree with my roots planted firmly in ground.

I'm now off the sidelines, no need to sit and whine
So much gratitude fills my heart and love and beauty shine.
After all these years I can join the loving human race
I exceed all expectations and now I set the pace.

and then many many more poems in which I imagined myself running unencumbered and free reclaiming my life from those that tried to snuff out my life force with violence.

I took a leap of faith and left my award winning career as a VA social worker having been told by an earth angel of a physical therapist that I needed to reduce the stress in my life and follow my new found bliss as a poet, returning to my first passion in college as a writer.

After she discharged me from outpatient physical therapy, I "just happened" to meet a personal trainer. I asked her if she thought there was anything we could do to help me get stronger building on the rehab program I received at discharge from outpatient care at Spaulding Rehab.

Her response was:


I couldn't even pass the initial assessment.

We got to work and 6 months later in February of 2008 I improved in all areas of the fitness assessment.

After rattling off a list of goals for the next 6 months of our work together, while Janine feverishly wrote them down ... walking outside without my leg brace, taking dance classes (I took ballet before I contracted paralytic polio), diversifying my workouts ... Janine gathered up her things having shared in the excitement of my healing odyssey, and had her hand on the door knob getting ready to say goodbye.

Wait - I said.

I have one more goal.

What's that she asked me.

And before I even had time to process what I was saying, the words came out of my mouth, "I want to run the Boston Marathon for Spaulding Rehab. They have a Race for Rehab Team and I want to run it next year."

She certainly could have told me I was out of my mind and perhaps we should start with more modest goals but instead she put down her things, took a deep breath and said, "You are going to need to get yourself a pair of running shoes!"

We built up my cardio endurance and strength indoors until the weather improved enough for me to take the first steps on the road to 26.2 miles from Hopkinton to Boston.

I love this photo of me from the Brookline Tab out on one of my first training runs:


We eventually bought running clothes and had a crash course in everything you need to know about running, the running community and the Boston Marathon.

I remember so many of the highlights of that incredible day when I, a polio survivor ran the Boston Marathon:


It took us 7 hours and 49 minutes but we did it! And proudly display our bling (along with the bling from my 3rd consecutive Bermuda Half Marathon January 2018) on our Blue Diamond Athletic Displays medal holder:


What a journey it has been! To think that it all started with a poem that has taken me on 10 years worth of running adventures ... and the journey continues!

To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours,
Mary

Proud to be a part of Friends of Blue Diamond Athletic Displays, Inc.

Be sure to visit my website by following this link.

My books are available on Amazon.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


And my latest and greatest book - Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):

Reflections on Boston Marathon 2018 - I LOVE THIS SPORT! - Part II

On Sunday evening, when I saw that the weather forecast called for less than optimal conditions on Monday, I posted this to Facebook:
#bostonmarathon #bostonstrong #werunasone #nationalpoetrymonth #runnerschristmas It's almost go time - On a personal note I want to thank EVERYONE for stopping by Booth #758 at the Expo this weekend. Thank you for your support of my journey and for Blue Diamond Athletic Displays, INC.. There are too many to tag .. my heart is overflowing with love and gratitude.
In honor of tomorrow's Boston, and since April is National Poetry Month, given the weather forecast, I have composed a poem to get you through:

Twas the eve before the marathon
the forecast was bleak
the clothing and race plan
the runners would tweak.
Nerves they were frazzled
but we’re Boston Strong
their Spirit and causes they run for
will carry them along.
Carbo load and remember
we all run as one
can’t wait to see all the photos and bling
once the 26.2 miles are done.
Be brave have courage
run with all your heart
Team McManus will be cheering for you
tracking you right from the start.
May angels surround you
may the wind be at your back
trust all your training there is no lack.
The 2018 Marathon is now almost here
runners gather from around the world
from afar and from near
take it mile by mile
don’t worry don’t fret
make Boston Marathon 2018 your best day yet.

On Monday morning, we debated back and forth about whether or not to watch the race live. Our friends told us at the Expo to stay safe and warm and they all knew we'd be cheering for them. After all, energy is non-local and we could certainly cheer them on by tracking them and sending out positive energy.

I got very emotional watching the mobility impaired start remembering our early start in 2009.

I was blessed to know Ernst Van Dyk as our Team Captain for Spaulding Rehab. He told us at our pre-race pasta dinner that a life does not end with a disability...it's just a new beginning. I heard him speak at an event during the 2013 pre-marathon weekend festivities:


We cheered him on hoping he'd win that ever elusive #11 win in Boston. It was not meant to be. The weather conditions took a toll and he couldn't feel his hands and fingers at the end of the race. He came in a most respectable 2nd!

The text alerts that our friends were at the start started coming in and we sent God speed and prayers to all of our running friends toeing the starting line and checking in on Facebook.

Tatyana McFadden had a stunning race!


From teamusa.org:
The victory gave McFadden a record-setting 22nd victory in the world major marathon series. She won Boston four years in a row from 2013 to 2016, but while battling blood clots during a difficult 2017 racing season, she finished last year’s Boston Marathon in fourth place, 10 days after being released from the hospital.

Seeing Shalene Flanagan peel off to go to the bathroom stunned everyone including Katherine Switzer who was doing the commentary for WBZ. We would later find out that Desiree Linden waited with her!


Katherine pointed out that given the pace with the weather conditions Shalane could easily make up the time.

The lead pack stayed together with Mamitu Daska being far out in the lead.

At mile 22 Desi made her move. I was at the finish line in 2011 waiting for Tom and was part of the crowd screaming and I mean screaming for Desi who came in 2nd place by two seconds that year. As we watched Desi take the lead, Katherine Switzer commented that she had to remain focused knowing how she once lost the race on Boylston St. The whole running community was cheering for her and people began lining the Marathon course from Brookline to the finish line after they saw what happened despite the miserable weather.

Desi broke the tape:


and the drought of 33 years for an American woman to win the Boston Marathon.

In the post-race interview we learned that she wasn't feeling well and told Shalane that if she needed anything she'd support her to the finish. She didn't believe that she was going to even finish! Desi had what was described as understated grit. This sport is all about grit and heart and hanging in there because you never know when a day could turn around. Running is a magnificent metaphor for life.

Five unknown women finished 2nd through 6th place! It was a day full of surprises!

We weren't paying much attention to the men's race once Galen Rupp had dropped behind. Another humble hero, Yuki Kawauchi from Japan went on to surge to the finish!


We turned our focus to our friends who were out there toughing it out in the worst race conditions in 30 years.

We were able to cheer on many of our friends as we got the "Finish" text alert and congratulated each and every one of them on Facebook.

Team Big Heart finished big and strong.

One of my favorite stories of the day was for Team Big Heart finisher Jennifer Sprague:
I just want to take a moment & reflect on everything that unfolded yesterday. (Warning: very long post)

Let me start off by making you aware, if you weren't already, I've wanted to run the Boston Marathon since I was 13 years old. When I was diagnosed with MS I was advised running isn't going to be a big part of my life anymore and that I should "take it easy".

The Boston Marathon has always been a dream of mine. That dream came true yesterday. I DID IT. I ran the 122nd Boston Marathon. Still seems a little unreal. It went by so quickly but I did what I set out to do, and that was to remember every stride. I remember the tearfull start to the sobbing like a baby finish. I remember seeing the spectators who made me feel like the only reason they were out there was to let me know "I've got this", "I'm doing great", and that I was "almost there" (even at mile 3). I remember that right on Hereford, left on Boylston... I knew I wanted to remember that so I stopped & took a picture of the crowd.

I could not have done this without many people. This wouldn't be possible without the Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation. Thank you for allowing me to live my dream in the name of Joseph (I had many conversations with him yesterday)

This also wouldn't have been possible without my husband. He put up with me going out for hour long runs, taking care of Robbie (who swore that every girl he saw running was "momma"). He was/is my rock during this journey and the look on his face once I crossed the finish line yesterday really let me know how deeply he loves me and proud he is of me (plus saying that I'm such a bad ass for busting out 26.2 miles in those conditions).

Finally, they're are no words to Express how grateful I am for my mother Carroll Burns. She has been there for me through anything & everything. Not only with my journey to the Boston Marathon but through my journey in life. Thank you for sharing tears with me at the finish line.
— feeling blessed.


We didn't know that the timing mats were taken up given the elements and worried when we couldn't track Jane Marshall or Annette Emerson. We heard from several friends who opted to not finish (DNF = do nothing foolish) and provided words of comfort and support. We were hoping and praying that no one would end up in the hospital. We watched the news feed of our friends who were volunteering in the medical tents.

From Boston Magazine:
A total of 2,785 runners received medical attention during the 122nd Boston Marathon, according to updated statistics released by the Boston Athletic Association. Ten of the 91 athletes transported to the hospital on Patriots Day were still there as of Tuesday at 9 a.m. Despite the brutal weather conditions and busy day for the marathon’s 1,700 medical volunteers, 95.5 percent of the 27,042 athletes who started the race finished it, according to the BAA.

One of the many many highlights of the day was seeing Amby Burfoot's interview shortly after he crossed the finish line. I was blessed to meet him several years ago at the Runners World Heartbreak Hill Half Marathon weekend. Whenever we meet each other, it's as though we are old friends as only happens when you are part of the sport of running. He wrote a wonderful recap of the day in his blog post, "Flood, Sweat and Tears."

We finally turned off the TV at about 4:30 in the afternoon.

Tony Rich completed his 16th Boston Marathon:


The next morning I saw this post from my friend Jane Marshall:
So long post, but just want to remember what I can from yesterday! I still cannot believe I took part in the Boston Marathon, and although yesterday, it already seems like so long ago.

The day started off rainy and muddy. I slipped and fell into mud almost as soon as I got to the Athlete’s Village, thank god for throw away clothes! I got stuck in mud several times trying to get to the potty and out from the tents to get to pavement to change into my running sneakers and dump my muddy throw aways. Off to the start line it was and it was pretty exciting! My friend and I split at mile 11 as she felt she could no longer push to go and urged me to go. I felt terrible moving ahead and argued in my head and knew deep down she would want me to, and I needed to do for me. I was way passed the 6 hours for the pacer at this time and I wanted to catch up to others as the mile markers and aid stations were being closed down. I came upon Kim and Trish, and we went from mile 12-17 together. At that point I felt the need to start pushing ahead and we parted ways. For a long time I was alone, a boy came running down a hill in Newton giving me a bottle of water. A woman named Mary came off her steps in Allston asking for a selfie and told me that seeing me out there inspired her to push through a tough life like me were still out there going in weather conditions like this, she called me her angel as we hugged. Then I just kept plowing ahead stumbling upon more people like me and we kept on giving each other encouragement. A girl was walking with her dad and he said to her, see you are not alone, and we high-fived. I kept pushing and soon took the corner to get onto Boylston Street! Cleaning crews were all over the place, but I stayed on that blue line to Ben g me to the finish. As I can close, a group of friends were standing in the pouring rain cheering my name. I literally got so choked up I had to use my inhaler to breathe! I am not sure what we more emotional them there or finally crossing the finish mine. I waited with my friends to cheer my other friend as she texted and told me when I was at mile 21 that she was not a quitter and was at mile 19. That father and daughter team crossed and he came over and hugged me and thanked me for motivating his daughter and she and I hugged too. Kubryn came across and it was amazing for the celebration with our friends and her family. Then as we were gathering to, Trish yelled hello and I got to hug my new friend, and she thanked me for motivating them when I parted ways with them after mile 17. Now she wants me to join the Lowell Running Club!

This 47 body year old body took me through 26.2 miles of rain, sleet, cold, and head winds. I may not have crossed the finish line traditionally, but I did it regardless! I wanted it so badly in my heart! I did not really train as I put focus on other areas of my life, but learned so much and and have a new mindset and goals. Your body is an amazing thing, but the mind and heart are even more powerful!

Life is amazing and you have to take chances to never have regrets! After all the stories I have heard of people going to medical and eve withdrawing, I realize how strong I was! Today I feel amazing, no pains aside from a few tight muscles. I am even thinking again! I am inspired and although it was not the race I hope for, it was beyond a blessing and it inspired me for other areas of my life! Life is a journey and I am ready for the next!

Thank you for everyone encouraging me, cheering me, donating to my charity, Wediko Children’s Services in the fight against Childhood Mental Illness! I have to date raised almost $7300! Thank you to life for granting me health and strength and opportunity, I will not let you down!

I am now a Boston Marathoner! 💙💛👟


I went to Annette Emerson's page. Follow this link to her finisher's video with her Guide Kristina Rynes Petitjean and someone they met along the way.



It was called the Bitch of Boston, Flood, Sweat and Tears, the Monsoon Marathon, Run for the Shelter (a play on the 1976 Run for the Hoses) the Mudfest Marathon and EPIC!

It was definitely a Boston Marathon unlike any other.

I'll close with this post from Calvin C. Yu a new running friend from Hong Kong:

#BostonMarathon #謙卑自省的體驗

[Cold Rain, Freezing Wind, Low Temperature, Steep Course.]

Running a marathon can be really tough!

The experience of participating in Boston Marathon in 2018-04-16 can be described using the following example:
Install an air-conditioner in washroom and set it to maximum cool, add a number of big fans and turn on them, and wash ice water shower for 6 consecutive hours. (+ body temperature feels like 0 degree celcius + getting all wet inside out)

This is my 10th marathon in 18 months. It is like a test which gather the worst scenarios faced by a runner: Cold Rain, Freezing Wind, Low Temperature, Steep Course.

When I felt tired, I recalled what I learnt from training on how to save energy.
When I felt weak, I remembered my coach saying "Be persistent and the finish line is waiting for you!"
When I felt freezing, I thought about burning sun, fierce fire, boiling hotpot!
When I felt frustrated, I told myself it would soon be 1km, it would soon be 5km, it would soon be finished!

Being able to finish the marathon doesn't make me feel I am strong. On the contrary, it reminds me of my weakness. I get new learning and inspiration in training, equipment and preparation!

Running a marathon is always a humbling experience.

#BostonMarathon #AHumblingExperience

The 2018 Boston Marathon is in the books. What a privilege and blessing to have so many friends visit me at the Expo at Blue Diamond Athletic Displays booth and to make new running friends this weekend. It was the first year that Tom and I watched the marathon on TV and it was thrilling to watch this sport that I have been a part of for almost 10 years.

I'm inspired by what I witnessed this weekend and the courage and strength of those who finished and those who knew when to say enough; it just wasn't their day.

I LOVE THIS SPORT which is indeed a metaphor for life. As Bill Rodgers once said to me, "Life is hard. That's why we run." In life and in running we can't choose the weather or circumstances, we can only weather the circumstances by being our best selves.

To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours,
Mary

Proud to be a part of Friends of Blue Diamond Athletic Displays, Inc.

Be sure to visit my website by following this link.

My books are available on Amazon.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


And my latest and greatest book - Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):