Resilience: The Power of the Human Spirit

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Ann with Erika & Carol

“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.”  – Christopher Reeve

Joining me in the studio were a mother/daughter team who are shining examples of the power of the human spirit – Carol Downing, the mom, who was a runner in this year’s Boston Marathon, and her daughter, Erika Brannock, a local pre-school teacher who was there at the race, along with her sister, Nicole, and her brother-in-law, to cheer Carole across the finish line.  Because of the events of that day, Carol was not able to finish the race officially and Erika and Nicole and Michael Gross suffered extensive injuries.  In Boston to celebrate what was supposed to be such an exciting event for the family, the unexpected happened and turned everyone’s life upside down.  How does one go on – pick themselves up, deal with the emotional and physical pain, and go forward?  Both Carol and Erika talked about the overwhelming waves of emotion they’ve been through since Boston, and the decisions they’ve made to be strong and carry on – hoping their stories will serve to inspire others. 

“…I will never hide from the things that scare me, but that I will stare fear in the eye and say, ‘You will NOT keep me from living my life.’ I ask that each of you do the same and never let a setback or fear keep you from living your life, too.”
 - Erika Brannock, Boston Marathon Bombings SURVIVOR

Tune in to here how Carol and Erika are doing it… one day at a time.  It’s the power of the human spirit.

Guests:  Mom, Carol Downing and Daughter, Erika Brannock