Episodios
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This episode of Spinal Cast highlights the transformative power of writing, community, and overcoming adversity. Our guests are Zach Foor, a rehab technician, and Greg Mans, a survivor of a C3 incomplete spinal cord injury. Their friendship began in 2020 at the Recovery Project, a neuro-specialized physical therapy clinic in Livonia, Michigan. Bonded by a shared love of nature, adventure and writing, Zach decided to hike across the United States, east to west, on the American Discovery Trail (ADT) in Greg’s honor. He started on March 25, 2024 from Cape Henlopen, Delaware with Greg providing support including occasional in-person visits and virtual encouragement during his rehabilitation.
At the heart of this shared journey is the Certain Steps Writing Workshop – an eight-week virtual program led by author and teacher Peter Markus. The workshop is designed for those affected by paralysis and their caregivers, exploring how writing can become a new form of movement. Both Zach and Greg have participated in the program and are now strong advocates raising funds to support another FREE workshop upon the completion of Zach’s hike for those interested in participating.
Currently Zach has paused his trek in New Albany, Indiana, for the winter, having covered approximately 1,400 miles so far. He plans to find work and save funds for the remainder of the journey with hopes of resuming the hike in the spring or the next year. To date, he and Greg have raised $3,000 for the writing workshop fundraiser.
Godspeed, Zach!
To follow Zach, read his journal entries, donate/sign up for the writing workshop go here:
http://www.certainsteps.org/
GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/certain-steps-writing-workshop?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet-first-launch&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer
Instagram: @zach.foor
Facebook: Zachary Foor
More on Peter Markus, the writing instructor can be found here:
https://oakland.edu/english/directory/markus/
Want to read more about Zach and Greg’s story? Go here:
https://www.hometownlife.com/story/life/2024/04/16/zachary-foor-plymouth-american-discovery-trail-greg-mans-certain-steps/73324567007/
Special thanks to Greg & Zach for being our guests! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Watch these episodes - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
More about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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As Election Day 2024 draws near, this episode of Spinal Cast couldn’t be more relevant. We’re excited to welcome Lydia McComas, Voter Engagement Division Manager for Hennepin County Elections (MN). Since 2022, Lydia has spearheaded voter outreach and has been part of Hennepin County since 2017. Her mission is to break down barriers and reduce disparities in voter participation, particularly for people with disabilities. Whether you live in Minnesota or elsewhere, Lydia’s insights offer valuable guidance on navigating the voting process with a disability. Voting is accessible no matter your situation! For more resources or questions, explore the links below. Happy voting!
Resources links regarding disability voting:
https://www.eac.gov/about/help_america_vote_act.aspx
https://www.usa.gov/voter-accessibility-laws
https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/election-day-voting/polling-place-accessibility/
https://smlr.rutgers.edu/sites/default/files/Documents/Centers/Program_Disability_Research/AAPD-RevUp_presentation_on_disability_and_voting_accessibility_3-18-21.pdf
Hennepin County, MN specific resources:
Accessible (emailed) absentee ballots: https://www.hennepin.us/residents/elections/accessible-electronic-ballots
Outreach materials: https://www.hennepin.us/residents/elections/voter-outreach-and-engagement
Special thanks to Lydia for being our guest! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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In this episode of Spinal Cast, we dive into the inspiring story of Linda Carter, whom her brother Steve affectionately calls "Wonder Woman." After a devastating snow tubing accident led to a T12/L1 incomplete spinal cord injury, Linda has been on a journey of resilience and persistence. Living with paralysis is a complex experience, filled with physical challenges and emotional ups and downs, especially when it strikes during the prime of life. Yet, Linda has faced it all with determination, grit, and a touch of humor, surrounded by the right people and supported by the unwavering bond she shares with Steve.
Now, as Linda navigates retirement and the inevitable changes that come with aging, their sibling connection remains stronger than ever. This episode explores their relationship, the strength they draw from each other, and how Linda's remarkable career, painting, love for family, friends and animals have shaped her into the "Wonder Woman" Steve admires so much. Despite the challenges ahead, one thing is clear: these two will always have each other's backs.
Click here to access bios for both Linda and Steve: https://mcpf.org/linda-steve-carter-bios/
Special thanks to Linda and Steve for being our guests! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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Meet Vicky Garrison, an Air Force veteran who, after being diagnosed with cervical stenosis and myelopathy in 2003, has embraced current technology to walk again! Say hello to “Stanley Strider,” Vicky’s affectionate name for her EKSO Indego Personal Exoskeleton. In this episode we gain insight into Vicky’s remarkable journey and exceptional services provided by the Minneapolis VA.
Through her steadfast faith, positive attitude, determination, and strong support system Vicky has transformed her life. Today, she’s not only walking but tackling daily tasks with little to no assistance. Most significant is the EKSO Indego has recently earned the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approval, making this incredible technology available to the general public, beyond just VA rehabilitation.
Vicky’s mission? To share her journey and inspire others to achieve similar outcomes. Her infectious joy and indomitable spirit dominate this episode, leaving you both amazed and inspired.
News Flash! Since recording this episode of Spinal Cast, Vicky’s progress has skyrocketed. She’s now walking functionally with just the aide of ankle-foot orthosis (braces,) using the EKSO Indego solely for therapy and maintaining her gait pattern. This is phenomenal progress after 21 years using a wheelchair!
Disclaimer: Vicky’s experience with the EKSO Indego is uniquely hers, and her views are her own, not reflecting any organization endorsements.
A personal video journal of Vicky’s journey with the EKSO Indego is accessible via this link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRFMbVVM8Ze8sSk7Ysk5xKckhIci9_hTl
Bio for Vicky Garrison can be found here: https://mcpf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vicky-Garrison-Bio.pdf
Thanks to Vicky for being our guest on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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In this episode of Spinal Cast, we learn about the remarkable programs and treatments available to veterans at the VA Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder Center in Minneapolis. Ryan Bouslog, a neurologic physical therapist and assistive technology professional explains the process of accessing care and emphasizes the crucial team approach of helping veterans achieve their healthcare goals.
The Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder Center in Minneapolis operates under a hub and spoke model and serves 1,400 veterans. It is the 6th largest center out of 25 nationwide. The research and technological advancements being developed there are transforming lives for veterans with various neurological conditions.
Our veterans deserve the best possible healthcare for their honor and dedication in protecting our country. It’s reassuring to know they have access to such exceptional care. Thank you to our veterans and healthcare workers like Ryan for their tireless commitment and service! Ryan’s bio follows.
Thanks again to Ryan for being our guest on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
Ryan Bouslog’s Bio:
Ryan Bouslog is a board-certified clinical specialist in neurologic physical therapy and a certified assistive technology professional. He has been a member of the Physical Therapy staff at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center since 2015. He joined the Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder Center (SCI/D) in 2017 where his clinical focus included interdisciplinary outpatient ALS and wheelchair clinics. In 2020, Ryan took on the role of the SCI/D Therapy Program Coordinator where he has helped manage SCI/D therapy operations and has served as a liaison between SCI/D leadership, REC therapy chiefs, and frontline SCI/D therapy staff. In the fall of
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You’ve heard the saying, “it’s the little things that make a difference,” right? In this episode of Spinal Cast you’ll discover just how profound those little things can be! Dr. Samuel Chung (Sam) and Noa Grooms hail from Northeastern University where they have been working with C. elegans (roundworms). They uncovered a fascinating phenomenon: by precisely cutting a fiber in a neuron they can observe regrowth and redevelopment and begin to understand how they can influence it. It is this seemingly small breakthrough that holds the potential to transform the way we approach spinal cord injury therapies.
With Dr. Chung’s expertise in lasers, optics and bioengineering, combined with Noa’s deep understanding of genetics, they are driving a revolution in neuroscience that gives testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration.
We also discuss the vital role of MCPF funding and the “New Investigator Grant.” By supporting new investigators in the field, MCPF is making strategic investments in high-risk, high-reward projects and championing visionary thinkers. The extraordinary achievements of Sam and Noa underscore the immense value of this approach.
What might seem like a ripple now is destined to create waves that will change lives for those living with spinal cord injuries. Tune in!
Bios for Sam and Noa can be found below.
Thanks again to Sam and Noa for being our guests on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
Samuel Chung, Ph.D.
Prof. Chung is an Assistant Professor in the Bioengineering Department at Northeastern University. He leads a multidisciplinary group to study a special form of regeneration that can regrow the mammalian central nervous system. His laboratory leverages highly precise laser surgery and powerful genetic tools in the simple roundworm C. elegans to illuminate the biological mechanisms of regeneration. His laboratory also develops optical tools to clearly see individual brain cells and their regrowth, with the goal of automating his experiments. Together, his technologies and his unique model in the worm enable him to make broad, fundamental discoveries that may ultimately produce a viable therapy for spinal cord injuries.
Noa Grooms
Noa Grooms is a recently graduated bioengineering PhD student from Samuel Chung's laboratory at Northeastern University. His research explores the genetic mechanisms underlying brain cell regeneration. In his studies, Noa identified cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) as a primary driver of protein expression that promotes regeneration across several neurons in the roundworm C. elegans. His results also demonstrate a strong cell-type dependence on regenerative capacity and contributions from different genes.
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Josh Basile and Kelley Brooks Simoneaux, both seasoned attorneys, shed light on the multifaceted challenges individuals face after a spinal cord injury. Beyond the immediate focus of recovery, they uncover the daunting realities of navigating financial burdens, deciphering insurance complexities, managing fundraisers, safeguarding assets, and understanding one’s legal rights. Josh’s founding of SPINALpedia, aptly named for its comprehensive support network, serves as an invaluable resource for those seeking guidance and community. Through mentorship and shared experiences, SPINALpedia offers solace and encouragement to individuals grappling with the mindboggling obstacle course post-injury. Tune in to better understand why Josh likes to say, “Together we are stronger and together we are not alone!”
For more information about Josh & Kelley and the important work they do, follow the links below:
Joshua Basile, Esq., Jack H. Olender & Associates, and Founder of SPINALpedia
https://www.olender.com/attorneys/joshua-basile-esq/
Kelley Brooks Simoneaux, Esq., and Founder of Spinal Cord Injury Law Firm
https://spinalcordinjurylawyers.com/meet-kelley/
SPINALpedia
https://spinalpedia.com/about-us/
HelpHopeLive
https://helphopelive.org/
United Spinal Association
https://unitedspinal.org/
Insurance Appeals Process
https://spinalpedia.com/health-insurance-appeals-process
Special thanks to Josh and Kelley for being our guests! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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Jack Jablonski has a tattoo on his forearm, it reads: “I understand my injury. I don’t accept it.” That should give you some insight as to who he is and how he perceives the future.
In this episode of Spinal Cast, we have a candid conversation as Jack reflects on the past 13 years. We discuss his injury, experience with the SpineX SCONE spinal electrical stimulator, and his decision to come out as a gay man. We also explore his current role with the LA Kings, love of hockey, and the inspiring work of his foundation. Jack’s determination is undeniable. Through raising awareness and staying true to himself, Jack’s voice resonates with anyone facing adversity, reminding us all of the power of resilience and being our true selves.
Jack’s full bio and more information about the Jack Jablonski Foundation, BEL13VE in Paralysis Recovery can be found here: https://mcpf.org/jack-jablonski/
Or here, www.jablonskifoundation.org
Thanks again Jack for being our guest on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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Welcome to the latest episode of Spinal Cast, where we discuss the often over looked challenges of air travel, particularly for those with disabilities. In this segment, Ian Ruder, Editor-in-Chief of New Mobility, shares shocking stories of air travel. You’ll discover the alarming lack of industry training for individuals with paralysis as well as the handling of essential equipment like wheelchairs. Ian also offers practical tips for smoother travel and highlights positive changes, including Delta’s wheelchair-friendly seating prototype and ongoing federal efforts to amend the Air Carrier Access Act. Join us for a discussion on the path towards a more accessible and inclusive air travel experience for everyone.
More information about Ian and New Mobility can be found using the links below:
New Mobility - https://newmobility.com/meet-the-team/
United Spinal - https://unitedspinal.org/
Injury - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-0mbh7Di-w
Ian’s Bio:
Ian Ruder is the Editor-in-Chief of New Mobility, the longest-running, most-trusted magazine and web site for active wheelchair users (newmobility.com). A quadriplegic himself, Ruder joined the New Mobility team in 2011 when the magazine was purchased by United Spinal Association, a non-profit focused on mobility-related disability. Prior to working for New Mobility, he worked as a freelance journalist in the Pacific Northwest. When he is not working to promote authentic voices and stories from the disability community, he can likely be found enjoying the culinary delights in his hometown of Portland, Oregon, or rooting for his San Francisco Giants.
Thanks again Ian for being our guest on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) for someone with quadriplegia? In this episode of Spinal Cast we sit down with Kortni Hollingsworth and Sarah Hollowell. Little did they know when they applied and got hired to be Peter Morton’s personal care assistants.
Through their lighthearted telling, Kortni and Sarah offer a candid look into the rollercoaster of emotions and responsibilities that come with the role of PCA. From heartwarming moments that created strong bonds to tough situations that demanded resilience, they share it all. It easy to see how the relationships they formed were more than a contractual client/PCA relationship … a deep friendship was forged, more like being part of the Morton “family.”
Whether you’re curious about the intricacies of the PCA profession or wonder about the realities faced by individuals living with paralysis, this episode is a compassionate and eye-opening discussion about the PCA experience.
Bios for Kortni and Sarah below:
Kortni Hollingsworth -
Kortni is an Emergency Room Registered Nurse. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing while attending Arizona State University. Kortni’s ER career began in Dallas, TX at a Level One Trauma Center, and she currently works in Austin. Kortni loves the fast-pace, high intensity work environment of the emergency room. In her spare time, Kortni enjoys running, spending time with friends and family, and hanging out with her two pups, Dublin and Finley.
Sarah Hollowell -
Sarah is a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Nurse in Austin, TX. She grew up in Gila, AZ and earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix. After graduation Sarah moved to Austin, TX. She loves working in the NICU and couldn’t imagine working with any other patient population! When not working Sarah enjoys traveling the world, reading, and enjoying good food and wine.
Thanks again to Kortni and Sarah for being our guests on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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In this episode of Spinal Cast you’ll meet the compelling Peter Morton, Executive Director of the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund (MCPF). He’s more than a leader; he’s an open book sharing his knowledge, experience and unfiltered honesty. Get ready for a deep conversation with the man behind the mission. And, if you’re meeting him for the first time, you’ll soon understand why he’s a man many admire.
We’ll unravel Peter’s personal story, from the circumstances surrounding his injury to the inception of MCPF. We’ll also discuss the impact MCPF is making in the field of spinal cord injury and what the future may hold.
But what truly sets this episode apart is the candidness with which Peter discusses his life as a quadriplegic on a ventilator. He meets his situation head on and shares the often dark and difficult places where ethical conflicts arise. A spinal cord injury has a ripple effect on family and friends, the daily mental and physical strain takes a toll. What is remarkable is the grace and purpose Peter found in having control over his own situation.
Be inspired, moved and above all, in awe as Peter’s extraordinary story unfolds. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of finding purpose even in the face of immense challenges. Thanks for all that you do, Peter!
Thanks again to Peter for being our guest on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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Identical twin brothers, David and Jason, led fairly ordinary lives in New York City until a life-changing event on April 17, 1999. David broke his neck in Mexico just before starting his MBA program at Stanford University. During that time Jason was already two years into medical school at Columbia University. After a long recovery David finished his MBA at Stanford and these two brothers became a force in spinal cord injury research.
Today, David is Chief Growth and Innovation Officer of the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH,) passionately raising funds and awareness for our biggest health challenges. Let’s call David the money guy.
Dr. Jason Carmel, on the other hand, serves as Director of the Movement Recovery Laboratory at Columbia University, Irving Medical Center where he focuses on innovative therapies using electrical stimulation of the brain and spinal cord. Jason’s the science guy.
By combining their skill sets these two brothers make a formidable team - a dynamic duo. Their story is one of optimism and a shared goal: pursuing, advocating and fundraising for new and innovative therapies for those dealing with paralysis. These guys are on a mission!
Find current bio information for David & Jason below:
David Carmel
https://fnih.org/press-release/the-fnih-appoints-david-carmel-as-chief-growth-and-innovation-officer-2/
Dr. Jason Carmel
https://www.weinberg.cuimc.columbia.edu/research/movement-recovery-laboratory
Thanks again to David & Jason for being our guests on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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Everyone has a story, but Nick LiBassi’s is truly remarkable! In 1996, at age 26, Nick endured a horrific skydiving accident. Surviving the accident is almost unimaginable but what’s even more significant is what Nick has done with his life since that day.
In this episode of Spinal Cast Nick shares with great honesty the challenging journey from injury and rehab to transitioning mentally and physically to a life that is something different than he originally imagined. As Nick states, “The people we encounter in our lives matter.”
Because of Nick’s lived experience with spinal cord injury he is a vital voice in many capacities … fundraising, sitting on various boards and committees, and a professional business career. He’s worked at Johnson & Johnson, helped lead a team within an international executive search firm, transitioned to United Spinal Association to establish their Partnership Expansion strategy, and currently works with Mobius Mobility where he is head of sales for the iBOT PMD (an amazing machine!) And, that’s not the complete resume. Nick has also has a history in local government as Municipal Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Police Commissioner and Fire Commissioner. Obviously, Nick practices what he preaches… “Don’t sell yourself short – go do it.”
Nick’s full bio can be found here: https://mcpf.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/NicholasLiBassi_Bio.pdf
Mobius Mobility/iBOT: https://mobiusmobility.com/
Thanks again to Nick for being our guest on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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At MCPF we talk a lot about our global approach to spinal cord injury research and how it takes a lot of time. During this episode of Spinal Cast Helen-Marie Dunmore, Principal Scientific Advisor with Charles River Laboratories, United Kingdom shares some insight on why it takes so long and how their work is critical for safe and reliable therapies for those affected by spinal cord injury. We discuss the role of regulation, new drug trials, blood brain barrier, data sets, pre-clinical testing, animal models, functional methods, collaboration, and standardization – just to name a few of the challenges. We also hear about the promising therapeutic targets that Helen-Marie is especially excited about; protection and regeneration of neurons, tissue repair, cell and gene-based therapies. Yep, it all takes time, a lot of time, and money.
The work that Helen-Marie and others at Charles River do is behind the scenes but without it we would not have the data or safety measures in place that guarantee advancement in the scientific field of spinal cord injury. Thanks for your devotion and work! A detailed bio for Helen-Marie Dunmore can be found at the link below:
https://www.criver.com/about-us/about-us-overview/our-employees/employees/helen-marie-dunmore-ert
Charles River Laboratories: https://www.criver.com/
Thanks again to Helen-Marie for being our guest on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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“Dad, I can’t feel my toes.”
Learning you are paralyzed isn’t just an adjustment for the injured individual, it’s an adjustment for the entire family. This episode of Spinal Cast shares the story of a family living in Milbank, South Dakota finding a new normal after their beloved daughter/sister, Becky is injured in a car accident. Three sisters; Becky, Bernadette and Bridget, all teenagers at the time, discuss the ripple effect the accident had on their family and how they all discovered things about themselves in the process. This is a candid conversation about a shared journey. It wasn’t what they wanted or expected but working through the trauma with love, patience, acceptance, and some humor it’s easy to understand why these sisters have an impenetrable bond. All three sisters are “adulting” now with professional careers, their bios follow.
Becky Walker: Becky is Director of Retail Branches for TruStone Financial Credit Union. She was injured in a car accident when she was 15 which left her paralyzed from the waist down. Becky and her husband, Chad, love spending time outdoors. Their favorite recreational sport is SCUBA diving.
Bernadette Finken: Bernadette is Head of Talent and Acquisition for Best Buy Co. Inc. She is married and a mother of three. When not working she is making memories with her family by attending sporting events and enjoying their lake place in the summer. Bernadette was 16 at the time of Becky’s accident.
Bridget Peters: Bridget is an RN in the ICU at United Hospital. She is a social butterfly! In her free time, she loves to travel, hike, spend time with her friends and family and spoil her adorable dog, Teddie. Bridget was 13 when Becky was injured.
Special thanks to Becky, Bernadette and Bridget for being our guests! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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The definition of the word “determined” is missing something, it’s Mike Utley. Thirty-two years after an NFL career ending spinal cord injury Mike continues to motivate and advocate for those living with paralysis. He is one of those individuals who deals with adversity better than most and has an irrepressible outlook on life. This episode of Spinal Cast covers his injury, recovery, and personal journey living with paralysis. Next time you use that “thumbs up” emoji here’s hoping you think of Mike. His message and his work are inspiring!
The Mike Utley Foundation - https://www.mikeutley.org/
Thank you again to Mike Utley for joining us on today's episode! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the MCPF you can visit our website - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always welcomed - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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A tour de force, a dynamic duo, a powerful pair … somehow these phrases are not adequate when describing the incredible work of Dr. Grégoire Courtine and Dr. Jocelyn Bloch. Their remarkable discoveries in the field of spinal cord injury are bringing treatments to the forefront - using a brain-spine interface to facilitate movement for those living with paralysis. With the help of their dedicated team of scientists, what we once hoped for is now a reality. This is exciting stuff. Prepare to be amazed!
Dr. Jocelyne Bloch is a neurosurgeon at the University Hospital Lausanne, Switzerland, also known as CHUV, where she leads the Functional Neurosurgery Unit. Dr. Grégoire Courtine is a neuroscientist with a background in physics.
Both Dr. Bloch and Dr. Courtine are professors within the NeuroX Institute of the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), within the Neurosurgical Department of CHUV, and at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Lausanne (UNIL).
They co-founded the Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, named NeuroRestore, which they lead together as Co-Directors. NeuroRestore is a research, innovation, and treatment center that develops and applies bioengineering strategies involving neurosurgical interventions to restore neurological functions. https://www.neurorestore.swiss/
In 2014, Dr. Bloch and Dr. Courtine also co-founded ONWARD Medical with the aim to translate the neurotherapies developed at NeuroRestore into clinical treatments. Dr. Courtine is Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) of ONWARD Medical N.V. (Euronext: ONWD). https://www.onwd.com/
They are recognized worldwide for their conception of neuroprosthetic implants that restored walking in people with chronic paralysis, the results of their research have been published in numerous articles by science and nature journals, and broadly publicized in print and broadcast media across the world.
Thank you again to both Dr. Bloch and Dr. Courtine for joining us for today's episode! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the MCPF you can visit our website - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always welcomed - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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This episode of Spinal Cast features the extraordinary world of emergency services and two heroes who save lives every day. Dr. Gregg Jones and Dr. Aaron Robinson are EMS Physicians with Hennepin County Emergency Medical Services. They share valuable insights into their challenging field of work and discuss the causes of many critical calls, including those that result in spinal cord injury. Learn some life-savings tips and discover how you can be a hero too in those critical moments when experts are not immediately available.
Gregg A. Jones, MD
Dr. Gregg Jones currently serves as Medical Director of Public Safety and Special Operations at Hennepin EMS, EMS Fellowship Program Director, Assistant Medical Director, Hennepin Emergency Medical Services, and Medical Director for Minneapolis Fire Department. Dr. Jones also serves as Medical Director for MN Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue Team. He completed medical School at Oregon Health and Science University and Emergency Medicine Residency training at Hennepin County Medical Center in 2018 and EMS fellowship in 2019. Prior to going to school, Dr. Jones served in the US Army, which included two combat tours to Afghanistan. His current medical interests include medical directing for large-scale events, mass casualty incident planning, paramedic education, provider wellness and the interface between prehospital medicine and law enforcement.
Aaron Robinson, MD, MPH
Dr. Aaron Robinson is an Emergency Medicine and EMS Physician at Hennepin County Medical Center and Hennepin EMS in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is indigenous and from the Menominee Tribe of Wisconsin. He attended undergrad at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh before earning his MD at University of Wisconsin. He also earned an MPH from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Robinson completed his residency in Emergency Medicine at Hennepin County Medical Center and stayed to complete a fellowship in Prehospital (EMS) Medicine. His professional interests include out of hospital cardiac arrest, critical care, and health disparities.
Thank you again to both Gregg and Aaron for joining us on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the MCPF you can visit our website - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always welcomed - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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Today we welcome the one and only Dr. Brooke Ellison to the podcast!
In September 1990 Brooke was hit by a car on her way home from school. She was 11 years old. The accident left her paralyzed from the neck down and dependent on a ventilator. In 2000, ten years after her accident, she graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University. She gave a commencement address which was covered extensively by media outlets around the world, including the TODAY Show and New York Times.
Since her graduation from Harvard, Brooke has worked as a public speaker, delivering a message of hope, motivation, and strength in the face of obstacles. In 2002, she published her first book, Miracles Happen, which was subsequently made into a movie, The Brooke Ellison Story, directed by Christopher Reeve. Brooke continued her education and graduated from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government with a Master’s degree in Public Policy. In 2006 she ran for New York State Senate. She also founded The Brooke Ellison Project, a nonprofit organization advocating for stem cell and biomedical research. Today Dr. Ellison is Associate Professor at Stony Brook University.
Interested in learning more? Check out the links provided below:
Learn more about Dr. Ellison’s incredible efforts
https://www.brookeellison.com/
The Pillars of Hope, TEDxSBUWomen
https://youtu.be/hA28_fd5e1A
The Brooke Ellison Story (2004), based on the book Miracles Happen: One Mother, One Daughter, One Journey written by Brooke and Jean Ellison (2002), directed by Christopher Reeve
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0407612/
Look Both Ways, Dr. Ellison’s most recent book
https://www.brookeellison.com/look-both-ways
Thanks again to Dr. Ellison for joining us on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the MCPF you can visit our website - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always welcomed - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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Meet Wendy Crawford – she’s working for equal and accessible healthcare for women with disabilities and she’s doing it with a unique medium - the arts.
Wendy was injured while driving to the airport for her first international modeling contract at the age of 19. Struck by a drunk driver she was rendered quadriplegic. Growing into womanhood with a disability, Wendy noticed a lack of available information for women with disabilities. As a result, she has devoted her life to raising awareness of the particular issues that women with physical disabilities face – especially in healthcare. Wendy has developed many empowering initiatives. She’s a TEDx speaker, developer of mobileWOMEN.org, an online magazine for women in wheelchairs - now a Facebook Group. She is co-founder of Raw Beauty Project, an innovative art platform that celebrates women with disabilities to empower, educate and inspire change. And, the latest initiative Raw Beauty Project Health, focuses on the disparities in healthcare that women with limited mobility experience, in part due to healthcare inaccessible examination and diagnostic equipment as well as lack of professional training and education. Learn more about Wendy’s meaningful work via the links below:
Solving the Beauty Equation/Wendy Crawford/TEDxTraverseCity
https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=CL92XcGQrLg&feature=emb_logo
Raw Beauty Project Health
http://www.rawbeautyprojecthealth.com/
UnstopABLE: Portrayals of Women with Disabilities Advocating for Equality in Healthcare
https://www.rawbeautyprojecthealth.com/exhibit
Raw Beauty Project Health – Resources
https://www.rawbeautyprojecthealth.com/resources
Raw Beauty Project
https://www.rawbeautyproject.com/
mobileWOMEN (Facebook Group)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/257147710969355
Thanks again to Wendy for joining us on the podcast today! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
If you'd like to learn more about the MCPF you can visit our website - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always welcomed - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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