MTV's "Catfish" host Nev Schulman will run in the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon less than three months after a severe bike accident that broke his neck.
Nev Schulman will participate in the marathon as a guide for blind runner Francesco Magisano, showcasing an extraordinary recovery and determination, the New York Post reported.
On August 5, Schulman suffered a harrowing accident while bicycling to pick up his son from camp. As he attempted to merge into traffic, he collided with a truck that had rear-ended another vehicle, resulting in a serious neck fracture. The incident escalated quickly from an emergency to a critical medical situation, leading to his admission to Southampton Hospital before doctors transferred him to Stony Brook Hospital for surgery.
Doctors gave Schulman a grim prognosis, and he faced the potential of paralysis as he lay in the ICU. The medical team continuously tested him and were astounded by his resilience, frequently checking his sensory responses while preparing for the worst. "I just remember the look on every nurse and doctor’s face as they came into the room for the first time … expecting me to be some version of paralyzed, and being so shocked, and almost confused," Schulman recounted.
After his surgery, doctors outfitted Schulman with a neck brace and advised him to wear it for at least six weeks. They dismissed any thoughts of him participating in marathons for the foreseeable future. However, during his recovery, his previous training for a half marathon and his resilience began to suggest a different outcome. In fact, just after his six-week follow-up, which included a promising X-ray, Schulman ran his first mile since the accident.
Furthermore, Francesco Magisano, whom Schulman was scheduled to guide in the marathon, played a pivotal role in his decision to run this year. Despite Schulman's doubts about his physical capability, Magisano insisted, "I don’t care how fast or slow we go. If you feel like there’s a chance you might be able to do it, I’ll wait." This encouragement became a crucial turning point for Schulman, ultimately helping him consider the possibility of returning to marathon running sooner than expected.
Training as a marathon guide for a blind runner involves specific responsibilities to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the race for the visually impaired participant. Schulman, along with his friend Tom Flaherty, will clear paths, maintain a tether, and manage necessities like water and Gatorade for Magisano during the run. This year marks Schulman's eighth New York City Marathon, but it is arguably his most meaningful given the circumstances leading up to it.
Moreover, Schulman's participation is not just a personal triumph but also highlights the capabilities and needs of disabled athletes. Working alongside Achilles International, Schulman and Magisano emphasize the importance of inclusivity and support in sports. After his recovery, Schulman asked his doctor, "Am I cleared to run?" and captured the approval on video to convince his skeptical wife of his readiness.
Nev Schulman's journey from a potentially life-altering injury back to marathon readiness has been nothing short of remarkable. His commitment to not only his recovery but also his dedication to assisting others reflects a deep resilience and altruism. "They’d all come in and do the same tests every few hours. They would touch my feet and they’d say, ‘Do you feel this?’ . . . I became very aware over that first 48 hours [in the ICU] how close I came to not potentially walking out of the hospital — or walking — ever again," Schulman shared about his close call with paralysis.
Furthermore, the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon will undoubtedly be a significant event for Schulman and Magisano, as they tackle the physical challenge together. Their story is not just about overcoming physical limits, but also about the power of human connection and support in facing life’s unexpected challenges.
