I was paralyzed and thought I couldn’t walk again — now I’m running my first half marathon

From Adversity to Triumph: The Inspiring Journey of Shaunta-Maé Alexander

Shaunta-Maé Alexander’s journey to the start line of the United Airlines NYC Half Marathon is a testament to resilience, faith, and determination. The 35-year-old children’s book author and aspiring actress from Sacramento, California, has confronted a lifetime of health challenges, including Crohn’s disease, paralysis, and chronic illnesses, to achieve a remarkable milestone: running her first half marathon. As part of the New York Road Runners’ Athletes with Disabilities program, Alexander will be guided by Peloton instructor Tunde Oyeneyin, who has played a pivotal role in her recovery and transformation. Her story is one of hope and perseverance, proving that no obstacle is too great when the will to overcome is stronger.

A Childhood Marked by Suffering and Struggle

Alexander’s health issues began when she was just 9 years old, with recurring stomach pains and difficulty digesting food. Her condition worsened over time, leading to frequent hospitalizations, including a harrowing episode at 12 where she was unable to leave her car due to unbearable pain. Eventually diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in high school, Alexander faced not only the physical challenges of the chronic condition but also the emotional toll it took on her mental health. She often felt isolated and unable to participate in normal childhood activities, carrying extra bags with medications and supplies to manage her symptoms. Despite these challenges, Alexander’s resilience and determination laid the foundation for her future victories.

A Life-Altering Diagnosis and the Road to Paralysis

As Alexander grew older, her health struggles only intensified. She was diagnosed with additional conditions, including POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and chronic pericarditis, which further complicated her life. However, the most devastating blow came in 2019 when a severe Crohn’s flare-up, possibly triggered by food poisoning, left her hospitalized. During a colonoscopy to assess the damage, Alexander experienced a rare reaction to the anesthesia, resulting in paralysis. Unable to move or speak, she also faced cognitive and memory challenges, including difficulty with simple tasks like basic math. This moment marked one of the darkest periods in her life, but it also became a turning point.

Rediscovering Strength and Finding Hope

After being discharged from the hospital, Alexander relied on a walker to move and underwent physical therapy to regain some mobility. However, her journey was far from over. By 2021, she experienced a major setback, becoming paralyzed from the waist down. Feeling discouraged and hopeless, Alexander reached a breaking point. Yet, in January 2022, she found a new source of inspiration in actor Cynthia Erivo’s love for Peloton, which led her to Tunde Oyeneyin’s classes. From her wheelchair, Alexander began with 3-pound weights and eventually progressed to using a Peloton bike, learning to pedal with her hands. Over time, she transitioned to using her legs and even took her first steps toward walking again. Her progress was nothing short of miraculous.

From Paralysis to Running: A Journey of Defiance and Grit

Alexander’s recovery was not without its challenges. The process of reactivating her muscles and joints after paralysis was painfully slow and required immense effort. Yet, she remained committed to her goals, focusing on strength training and gait exercises. By November 2022, she had transitioned from a Peloton bike to a treadmill, where she learned to walk and eventually jog. In June 2023, she completed her first 5K, a milestone that marked the culmination of her hard work and determination. Now, she stands ready to tackle her first half marathon, a feat that once seemed impossible. Alexander’s journey is a powerful reminder that the human spirit can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.

Running for a Purpose: Giving Back and Inspiring Others

As Alexander prepares for the NYC Half Marathon, she is not just running for herself; she is running for others. She is fundraising for the NYRR Team for Kids, a program that supports children facing similar challenges, many of whom feel marginalized and overlooked. Alexander’s story resonates deeply with these young individuals, as she herself knows what it means to feel like an underdog. With Tunde Oyeneyin by her side, Alexander is poised to inspire countless others with her unwavering resolve and indomitable spirit. Her journey is a testament to the power of hope, faith, and the unbreakable human spirit. As she crosses the finish line, Alexander will not only achieve a personal triumph but also remind the world that no matter how dark the journey may seem, the light of perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements.