S.C.I. Chronicles

In this episode, I turn the focus back to the mental and emotional side of living with a spinal cord injury by breaking down some common platitudes-how they have taken on new meaning, why they don't resonate, and which ones should really be avoided due to their unintended, negative connotations. Words have power, and the way we talk about disability, resilience, recovery and life after injury matt...

Happy Valentine's Day! In this episode, I dive into what it's like being in an inter-abled marriage with my husband and how, while not drastically, my spinal cord injury has changed our relationship. From the ways we've adapted in daily life to the deeper connections we've built, I share and honest look at love after injury. And since no Valentine's Day episode would be complet...

In this episode, I'm diving into how my daily life has evolved over the past six months. From changes in my daily care routine to the major shift of converting from a complete to an incomplete injury, I break down what these transitions have meant for me. I'll roll you through what a typical day looks like now--what's easier, what's still a challenge, and how I'm adapting along...

In this episode, I'm sharing all about our first road trip and hotel stay since my injury. From planning the drive to making sure our hotel room was actually accessible; this trip was full of learning experiences. I'll talk about how I managed being in the car for an extended time, the extra equipment we brought to make things easier, and what worked (and what didn't) in our accessible...

Facing a cold is tough for anyone, but as a paraplegic, it comes with unique challenges. In this episode, I share my experience dealing with my first cold post-injury. From managing symptoms with limited mobility to staying on top of potential complications, I discuss the strategies that helped me get through it and critical watch-outs. Whether you're looking for practical tips or curious abou...

In this episode, I dive into Part 2 of my "20 Questions" series, where I answer the final 10 questions about life post-injury, recovery, and everything in between. These questions cover topics like adapting to daily challenges, personal growth, and collaborating with my medical team. Tune in for candid insights and a lot of reflection as i continue sharing my journey.

In this milestone episode, I'm answering 20 questions about life post-injury and my recovery journey - 10 questions at a time! Theses questions come from family, friends, and ones I've been asked in the past. In this episode, I dive into the moments that have shaped my experience so far. Join me for an honest and insightful conversation as I share what recovery really looks like. Don't forget to s...

In this episode, I explore the paradox of being both new to life with a spinal cord injury and handed significant control over my medical decisions. I dive into the mental energy it takes to navigate unfamiliar scenarios, like choosing whether to get an IUD implant or deciding if antibiotics are necessary for a potential UTI. These decisions aren't just medical - they're deeply personal and often...

In this episode, I dive into everything I've learned about bladders and bladder management since my spinal cord injury. From navigating urology tests to better understand bladder and kidney function, to the different options for management, I share insights, lessons, and the realities of figuring out a system that works. Whether you're on a similar journey or curious about this aspect of SCI life,...

After Nearly two months away, I'm back to share what's been going on behind the scenes. Recovery isn't all progress and milestones--it's also about facing the challenges that come along the way. For me, That's meant dealing with persistent bladder issues that have taken over more of my life than I ever anticipated. In this episode, I open up about these tougher moments, why they're just as crucial...

In this episode, I'm sharing my experience participating in a research study at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where I took part in a manual wheelchair push test designed to gather valuable data on manual wheelchair users. This study was an opportunity to give back to the wheelchair user community in a meaningful way, knowing that the insights gained could make a difference in the lives of...

Following lasts episode's update, in this episode, I dive into the importance of self-advocacy--what it means to me and how it plays a vital role in my journey with an spinal cord injury. From navigating conversations with my medical team to making decisions in daily activities, self-advocacy gives me an opportunity to be part of my health and gain independence. Join me as I share personal experie...

In this episode, I'm back after taking a month-long break, and I want to share the reasons behind it. Recovering from a spinal cord injury is anything but straightforward, and sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges. Over the past month, I've been navigating new shifts in my recovery, from physical changes to mental health struggles, and just needing some time to reset and refocus. Jo...

In this episode, I take you through a day in my life five months after my spinal cord injury. It's been a journey of adaptation and change since I last recorded an episode like this three months ago. I'll share how my routines have evolved, the new challenges I face and the small victories gaining more independence. Whether you're on a similar path or just curious about life after a sp...

In this episode, I share the emotional and physical journey of returning to work in person for the first time since my spinal cord injury. As a newly paraplegic individual, this experience was filled with challenges, accomplishments and a few surprises. I discuss the preparation, the day of and the aftermath of completing an 8-hour-day on site. Join me as i reflect on what this milestone means for...

In this episode, I'm diving back into the mental side of a spinal cord injury. I'll talk specifically on how Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs connects to my own journey and learning how to navigate the world around me. I'll share what it's been like to go from the initial shock and vulnerability of my injury and how it's impacted my sense of stability and safety (level 2 of the...

In this episode, I'll explore the various ways I can still exercise after a spinal cord injury. As a paraplegic, I've discovered unique methods to maintain and improve my physical health. We'll dive into upper body exercises that build strength and endurance, as well as innovative techniques for engaging the lower body. Join me as I share personal experiences on adapting fitness routin...

In this episode, we'll dive into the current stage of my spinal cord injury recovery, where everything seems to shift at unknown times. Join me as I explore the unpredictable nature of this journey, marked by trial and error in managing health, experiencing returning sensory and motor functions and adapting to daily activities. Through candid reflections and personal anecdotes, I share the ups...

In this episode, we'll journey through the Abilities Expo in Chicago. I'll share my experiences from the workshop I attended and the diverse range of vendors we encountered, each showcasing innovative products and services designed to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. Get a feel for the overall vibe of the expo, filled with a strong sense of community. Tune in for an informati...

In this episode, we dive into the continuous process of living with a spinal cord injury. From home renovations tailored to accessibility needs to navigating the recovery process and facing the daily challenges of going out, every aspect requires adjustments and troubleshooting. Additionally, I discuss the upcoming Abilities Expo, a fantastic event dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with d...

In this episode, we delve into the complex emptions that come with life after a spinal cord injury. We explore how even the most positive news in recovery can be both exciting and intimidating, introducing a new set of challenges and a steep learning curve. Join me for a glimpse at navigating the highs and lows of recovery, and the vital role of emotional support in the healing process.

In this episode, I'll dive into the various types of therapy available for spinal cord injury patients, exploring the different levels provided in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient settings. I'll share my personal experiences with each therapy type and how therapy evolves as i move through recovery. Whether you're a patient, caregiver or listening for general knowledge,...

In this episode, I'll take you through a typical day in my life living with a spinal cord injury. From morning routines to nighttime preparations, I share the unique challenges and adaptations I navigate daily. Whether you're curious about life with a spinal cord injury or seeking inspiration about a personal situation, this episode offers a candid glimpse into my world and the realities t...

"So, what else happened?" For me, that was multiple additional broken bones, infections and paying attention to my body in new ways. In this episode, I'll share more information abouth the health issues my body has been helaing from in addition to the S.C.I. and what future health issues I need to pay additional attention to.

In this episode of "S.C.I. Chronicles", I delve into the complex world of spinal cord injury (S.C.I.) diagnosis. Join me as I unpack what it means to receive an S.C.I. diagnosis, exploring the various clinical terms that can often feel overwhelming. We'll also walk through the typical timelines and stages of recovery using my experience as the example. Whether you're diagnosed, a...