An accident left Jay McManus in a dark place. Push-rim racing led him to Sunday's Marine Corps Marathon.
“I’m a father of three. I run to show my family and my community that regardless of the obstacles, we can always overcome, we can keep pushing forward,” McManus said. “The true reality of it is there’s a large selfish part of that, too. I’m not just running to show them, but I’m running to prove to myself that I’m better than my injuries. I’m better today than I was yesterday, and I will continue to improve tomorrow.
After his treatment, McManus struggled with being separated from his passions and career. He openly discussed his struggles with anxiety and depression. “Jay is one example of many of why I do what I what I do,” said Sam Tickle, director of the fund’s sports program. “Being a veteran myself, I want to help those that I’ve served with and those that have come before and after me. It’s an incredible feeling. It’s a lot of work, but the payoff is beyond words.”