The Rogue SCI Alphabet - “R” is for Redefining Independence

The Rogue SCI Alphabet - W is for Wins in the Second Year

Two years ago, my life changed overnight when I sustained a T3 ASIA B spinal cord injury, and this episode marks my second “Life Day.” In this episode, I’m reflecting on what the second year of life after injury has actually looked like — the wins, the lessons, and the moments that mattered. From building community and trying adaptive sports to continuing to navigate independence and everyday life in a wheelchair, this year has been about redefining what progress really means. Recovery doesn’t have to mean walking again to be meaningful, and this episode is a reminder that there is still success, connection, and a full life to be lived after spinal cord injury.

The Rogue SCI Alphabet - “R” is for Redefining Independence

What does independence really mean after a spinal cord injury? In this episode, I sit down with occupational therapist Leah Hazzard to unpack how independence shifts after injury. We talk about the real difference between OT and PT, how adaptive tools and support can actually increase independence, and what it looks like to build a meaningful, functional life as a wheelchair user. If you’ve ever felt like you “lost” your independence, this conversation will challenge that definition — and maybe help you redefine it.

The Rogue SCI Alphabet - “G” is for Grief

Grief is often talked about in the context of loss—but what about the grief that comes with trauma, life-altering injury, or becoming someone new after everything changes? In this episode, I’m joined by Shawntell Pace, a trauma psychologist, to unpack how grief shows up during spinal cord injury recovery and in trauma more broadly. We talk about the kinds of grief people don’t always name, how trauma reshapes identity and expectations, and what it can look like to hold both grief and growth at the same time. Whether you’re living with an SCI, supporting someone through trauma, or navigating your own complicated grief, this conversation offers insight, validation, and permission to feel what you feel.

The Rogue SCI Alphabet - “F” is for Fitness

In this episode, I’m joined by Jeremy “Opie” Lade—Paralympian, Hall of Fame athlete, and longtime leader in adaptive sports—to talk about the importance of fitness after a spinal cord injury. We talk about how fitness and adaptive sports can shape life after injury, from physical health to confidence, identity, and community. Opie also shares why movement matters at every level—whether you’re chasing elite competition or simply looking to stay active—and how adaptive sports can open doors long after rehab ends.

The Rogue SCI Alphabet - “O” is for One Calendar Year

As 2025 comes to a close, I’m reflecting on the lessons this year has taught me—as my first full calendar year living with a spinal cord injury. In this episode, I share insights that came from trial and error, growth and adaptation and learning how to live in a body and world that look very different than before. This isn’t a highlight reel or a how-to guide—it’s an honest look at what this year demanded of me and what it gave back in return.