New York City Marathon Runners Race Against Tragedy (PHOTOS)

SLIDESHOW: Former Drug Addict, Wounded Vet, Others Race In NYC Marathon

Running 26.2 miles through New York City's grueling terrain is daunting enough. But, for those who have faced heart-wrenching tragedies -- the kind that can justifiably keep you holed up in bed indefinitely -- gathering the strength to lace up and hit the pavement can feel like an insurmountable challenge. For six competitors, paralysis, murdered loved ones and severe war wounds couldn't keep them from joining the more than 45,000 athletes who raced in The Big Apple's signature competition on Sunday.

Read their inspiring stories of triumph.

SLIDESHOW:

Tatyana McFadden, Paralyzed From Waist Down

New York City Marathon Runners Race Against Tragedy

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