The desert sun beat down and sweat trickled down my brow. It felt like any other run until a sudden confusion washed over me, a chilling realization as my right side went numb. "Where is my right arm?" I asked, my voice trembling.

My name is Marco Giovannoli. I was an Aeronautical Engineer and avid desert & ultrarunner until that morning, in Abu Dhabi, when a freak artery dissection flipped my life upside down. An acute stroke left me with physical disabilities and emotional scars. My world, once full of possibilities, seemed to crumble like desert sand beneath my feet.

Running and work were my identity. So, when I lost control of my right hand and foot, unable to run or write, it felt as if I’d lost myself. The excessive spasticity and muscle tone in my arm and leg felt like a snake coiled tightly around my limbs, threatening to crush me. Basic tasks required intense adaptation. Still, I was hopeful to recover quickly – one month, at most. 

One evening, as I shared my despair with my partner, she gently said, "Pray Marco. Remember, the past is gone. Focus on the present, and your future. Life happens for us, not to us." Her words, along with therapy, helped shift my perspective.

From Victim to Warrior

I was not a victim but a survivor and a warrior. I began talking to the elephant in my mind, and slowly, it gave me space. Until, one day, it left.  “What fear whispers its doubts in your ear? You are stronger than you think.” This became my mantra.

I realized that mental and emotional healing are just as crucial as physical recovery. Accepting my new reality became the foundation for rediscovering beauty in life.

Appreciating the Beauty in Small Things

Writing became a cathartic release, allowing me to let go of my past identity and embrace my new self. Cooking too, became a haven. The warmth of the kitchen nourished my body.  Kneading dough and tossing pizza like a one-handed maestro reminded me of my strength. My doctors and therapists became friends, offering support and help every step of the way.

The stroke taught me that it is never too late to change, to heal, to rebuild relationships. My parents came to Abu Dhabi, helping me regain strength and confidence. My sister, arrived from Italy just two days after my stroke, and our relationship grew stronger.  I reconnected with family and old friends in Italy, rekindling bonds I had thought were lost.

Returning to my role an Aeronautical Engineer was a huge milestone. Thanks to my colleagues, they adapted my workspace, never treating me differently but showing their admiration for my journey.

Discovering Transcovery & Purpose

After two years of recovery, I’ve come to realize I may never run again. And that’s okay—I’ve made my peace in the state I call Transcovery— where recovery meets transformation. Running no longer defines my identity. I’ve found fulfillment in small things that bring beauty to my life. More importantly, I’ve found ways to create a larger impact on others.

 I’ve met incredible individuals who introduced me to advocacy for people of determination, as people with disabilities are called in the UAE. Their encouragement gave me a new purpose: to campaign for stroke survivors and others fighting to be heard.

My writing that began as catharsis became my first book “Miracle in the Desert” -- a message of inspiration for fellow stroke warriors, and anyone seeking motivation. I now advocate globally, promoting emotional intelligence in recovery and advancing accessibility within my industry. Using my platform to empower others, I work toward a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.

If you’re reading my story, you’ve likely faced adversity, too. Remember, are not just recovering—you are in Transcovery. Like running through the desert, the journey may be harsh and unrelenting, but it reveals a strength you may have never known. Each step forward, however small, is part of a process that can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and your purpose.

Meet Marco Giovannoli

Born in 1976 in the hills outside Rome, Marco Giovannoli is an Aeronautical Engineer who has worked in Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways since 2013. In September 2022, a stroke during a desert run transformed his life, shifting his focus from ultrarunning to advocacy.

He is the author of Miracle in the Desert, a memoir chronicling his journey through recovery and self-discovery.

Marco now champions stroke survivors and advocates for greater accessibility for people with disabilities (or "people of determination," as they are known in the UAE), both in the workplace and in airline travel.

A speaker at COP28 and the World Stroke Congress, he emphasizes resilience and the importance of emotional intelligence in recovery with his initiative, "EQ over Movements!!!"

Collaborating with DEI efforts, he’s working to enhance accessibility policies in aviation.  With a long-term vision to advocate for global accessibility standards, including at the United Nations.

Connect with Marco on his Facebook Page Here.
If you'd like to read Marco's book "Miracle in the Desert" Click Here.