The Invincible Johnny Mac

You know that feeling you get when you hear that someone has had brain surgery? And then that feeling of disbelief and sadness you feel when that person has had to undergo a second brain surgery? Well, what if you were told that someone has had undergone more than 265 brain surgeries and continues to be a shining light to all who know him.

 

This is the story of John McNulty, known to his friends as "Johnny Mac” or just plain ‘ol “Mac". Johnny Mac is loved and admired by all who know him not only for his strong but quiet presence, but also for the overwhelming positive energy that he brings to a room. John is known as an exceptional runner who always exemplified tenacity and determination. Today, as his medical challenges continue, John’s relentless courage, strength and fighting spirit make him a remarkable inspiration to all who know him.

 

At the age of seven, John was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a disorder that occurs when cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the deep cavities of the brain. To treat his condition, surgeons implanted a device called a “shunt” to divert the excess fluid away from John’s brain. The surgery was a success and John went on to live a normal life.

 

Growing up, John excelled both in the classroom and on the athletic field. He enjoyed playing all sports however, because of his medical history, he was no longer able to participate in contact sports. In high school, John fell in love with running. He became one of the most dominant runners in the Rockland County region and went on to set many records at Nanuet High School in New York. Johnny Mac continued his running career in college under the prodigious mentorship of legendary coach, Frank “Gags” Gagliano. John became a standout on the cross-country trails as well as on the track, where he excelled in the steeple chase.

 

John graduated from Rutgers in 1979 and went on to become a VP Advertising Principal Compliance Officer at Park Avenue Securities Guardian Life Insurance. He never lost his love for running and continued to run races well into his adult life, including a first place finish in the Yonkers marathon.

 

At the age of 47, John began experiencing complications from a failing shunt. Numerous blockages and subsequent infections led doctors to advise surgery to replace the defective device. After having been in place for 40 years, surgery to remove the shunt was extremely difficult and complicated. Despite the valiant efforts of John’s dedicated team of doctors and specialists, each surgery failed to completely correct John’s condition. As a result, John has been in and out of hospitals over the past several years and has undergone more than 265 brain surgeries, each one attempting to correct recurring complications. Unfortunately, John continues to face the possibility of more.

 

Through it all, John’s wife of 40 years, has been by his side. Both John and his wife, Sue attended Rutgers University where they met and later went on to marry and have two children, Kaitlyn and Sean. Over the years, Sue has never lost faith or hope that John would reclaim his health. Her ever-positive attitude and upbeat disposition continue to comfort and uplift John as well as all those they know. Sue has been a devoted and loving wife, ever vigilant caregiver, knowledgeable and trusted health care advocate and unabating and faithful guardian. Her love and support have never faltered and she, Kaitlyn and Sean have been a monumental healing force behind John’s multiple recoveries. With the support of his family, friends and doctors, John’s incredible fighting spirit, never-wavering courage and his persistent will to overcome, have helped him conquer the countless hurdles he’s faced. He continues to triumph over each new challenge in the same way he faced every race he has ever run; with the confidence and belief that he was going to win. Despite his never-ending challenges, this amazing man continues to be a shining light and extraordinary inspiration to all who know him.

Needless to say, the cost of over 265 surgeries and the necessary rehabilitations have been enormous. Although some of this cost has been paid for by insurance, the costs that remain are overwhelming. It is the goal of this campaign to raise the necessary funds to help pay for John’s health insurance, hospital bills, medications, therapy and in home IV infusions as well as any other related medical expenses the McNulty’s may incur due to John’s ongoing treatment. Through the generosity of its donors, we hope this campaign will inspire and give hope to John and Sue in the same way that they continue to amaze and inspire so many each and every day. Marathons are long and arduous but with the help and backing of a team of dedicated supporters, they can be won.

That’s Johnny Mac’s goal. It’s also ours.

We invite you to be part of the team supporting The Invincible Johnny Mac.

Please donate today!