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Defying the odds: A journey of resilience
Shaunta-Maé Alexander’s story is one of resilience and determination. Hailing from Sacramento, California, this 35-year-old children’s book author and aspiring actress has faced a lifetime of health challenges, including paralysis.
Yet, she is now on the brink of completing her first half marathon, a testament to her unyielding spirit.
With over 27,000 athletes expected to participate in the United Airlines NYC Half, Alexander is not just another runner. She is part of the New York Road Runners’ Athletes with Disabilities program, where she will be guided by Tunde Oyeneyin, a Peloton instructor who has played a pivotal role in her recovery.
Their bond exemplifies the power of community and support in overcoming life’s hurdles.
Health struggles and the path to recovery
Alexander’s health issues began at a young age. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in high school, she faced debilitating symptoms that affected her daily life.
“I was the kid that had to have two bags,” she recalls, highlighting the challenges of managing her condition. The complications didn’t stop there; she also battled POTS and chronic pericarditis, which further complicated her health.
In 2019, a severe Crohn’s flare-up led to a hospitalization that left her paralyzed.
The experience was harrowing, as she struggled with cognitive and physical limitations. “I couldn’t move my arms, I couldn’t move my legs,” she described, emphasizing the gravity of her situation. However, this setback ignited a fire within her to reclaim her life.
A new beginning through fitness
In January 2022, Alexander made a pivotal decision to change her life. Inspired by the resilience of others in the Peloton community, she began participating in classes from her wheelchair. “If I could restore my walking, my movement, then I would walk like I’ve never walked before,” she vowed.
This determination led her to purchase a Peloton bike, and soon she was pedaling with her legs for the first time in years.
Her journey from walking to jogging and eventually running has been nothing short of remarkable. In June 2023, she completed her first 5K, and now she stands ready to tackle her first half marathon. “We don’t hear a lot about how patients reactivate their muscles after paralysis,” she notes, shedding light on the often-overlooked challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.
Inspiring others and giving back
As she prepares for the half marathon, Alexander is also raising funds for NYRR Team for Kids, supporting children who face similar challenges. “I want to be an inspiration for the underdogs,” she states, emphasizing her commitment to uplifting others who feel marginalized. Her journey is not just about personal achievement; it’s about creating a ripple effect of hope and motivation.
Tunde Oyeneyin, who has been by her side throughout this journey, describes Alexander as “an unstoppable force.” Their partnership exemplifies the profound impact of mentorship and encouragement in achieving one’s goals. As Alexander approaches the finish line of her first half marathon, she embodies the spirit of perseverance and resilience, proving that with determination, anything is possible.
