The Wheelchair Roundtable ATP-End User Perspective

Recording Artist Paul C Cesar II brings a powerful and unfiltered conversation you don’t want to miss. After surviving a life-altering car accident at a young age and later facing a tumor attached to his spine that left him in a wheelchair, Paul shares his journey through adversity with raw honesty. He opens up about his injury, resilience, and the mindset it took to rebuild his life.We dive into Arc X Therapy, a cutting-edge treatment that’s pushing boundaries and offering new hope, and how it’s playing a role in his journey today. Beyond his recovery, Paul talks about carving out a path as an international music artist, building his brand, and launching his company, The Tin Foil Hat Factory.The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we explore conspiracy theories, challenging perspectives, and the deeper questions that shape how we see the world. Paul also shares a profound spiritual experience that helped guide him to where he is today grounded, driven, and focused on his purpose.We wrap up with a look at his upcoming album and what’s next in his evolving career. It’s real talk, real perspective, and a story of transformation you’ll feel long after the episode ends.Facebook: Paul C Caesar IIIG: p.seizewww.thetinfolifactory.com25% off promo code: IKeepItReal

In this episode of The Wheelchair Round Table, we sit down with Mike Garrison — a stand-up comedian, husband, and proud dad of twins who’s redefining what it means to roll through life with purpose and humor.After a life-changing motocross accident left him paralyzed, Mike faced a completely new reality. But instead of backing down, he leaned in — building a family, embracing fatherhood from a wheelchair, and finding his voice in comedy.Mike shares the raw truth about his injury, what it took to start a family post-accident, and the real-life moments of being a “wheelchair dad.” He opens up about how comedy became his outlet, his therapy, and ultimately his platform to connect, inspire, and make people laugh.And in a full-circle moment, Mike talks about getting back on a motorcycle — exactly 15 years to the date of his injury — proving that fear doesn’t get the final say.This episode is real, unfiltered, and full of perspective — with plenty of laughs along the way. Facebook: Mike Garrison IG: mikegarrison247

Nancy shares the powerful story of raising her son Christopher, now 20, who was born with cerebral palsy. In the early years, Nancy struggled to understand what was happening. Like many parents, she didn’t have the knowledge or guidance to recognize the resources available for children with disabilities. In her own words, she was “ignorant”—not from a lack of love, but from a lack of direction.Everything changed after a chance conversation with another mother at a doctor’s appointment. That moment opened Nancy’s eyes to a world of support, advocacy, and possibility. Determined to fight for her son, she chose education over fear—earning her CNA certification to learn medical terminology and how to better care for people with complex needs.Nancy went on to work for Ms. Lillian, a woman with significant disabilities who taught her what true advocacy looks like. That experience helped shape Nancy into the voice she is today.Now, Nancy is helping influence disability policy in Delaware, serving on a Medical Complex Task Force and advocating for legislation that supports families like hers.This conversation is about faith in action, the power of knowledge, and how one mother turned uncertainty into purpose. Nancy’s journey reminds us that when parents find their voice, they can change not only their child’s future—but the system itself.Facebook: Nancy Lemus

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Nicolas Comstock — host of the Nick Speaks Podcast — for an honest and deeply personal conversation about resilience, independence, and finding purpose.Nicolas shares what it was like growing up with an identical twin brother who was not born with a disability, and how that dynamic shaped his childhood and identity. He opens up about the challenges he faced in school and how the education system ultimately failed to provide the support he needed to succeed.In a bold step toward independence, Nicolas made the difficult decision to move out and live on his own — despite his parents’ fears that he would not survive without their support. He talks candidly about the obstacles he faced trying to build a life independently, including being labeled “unemployable” and the broader lack of employment opportunities for people with disabilities.Our conversation also touches on Nicolas’s time attending First Baptist Church of Hammond, which was later featured in the documentary Let Us Prey: A Ministry of Scandals. Nicolas shares his personal perspective and experiences during that time.But Nicolas’s story is ultimately one of determination and purpose. Through his podcast, Nick Speaks Podcast, he has found a platform to speak openly about disability, life, and advocacy. After a TikTok Reel unexpectedly went viral, Nicolas gained over 77,000 followers — proving that authentic voices still resonate.We close the episode with a candid discussion about dating, relationships, and the often unspoken challenges people with disabilities face when it comes to connection and companionship.This is a real, raw conversation about independence, identity, faith, opportunity, and the everyday realities of living with a disability.A powerful story you won’t want to miss.youtube.com/nicolascomstock

In this powerful episode of the WABC Show, we sit down with current Heavyweight Wheelchair Boxing Champion Jody Bennet, alongside WABC Founder Collin and CFO Terry, for an inside look at the momentum building behind the World Adaptive Boxing Council.Joining us from the UK, Collin — a former semi-pro rugby player — shares the vision that sparked the creation of WABC and how adaptive boxing is carving out its rightful place on the global stage. Terry, a former Paralympian, brings his elite-level experience to the conversation as he discusses the current state of the organization, what legitimacy and structure mean for adaptive combat sports, and previews a major boxing event coming this fall that promises to elevate wheelchair boxing to new heights.Champion Jody Bennet speaks candidly about representing the sport at the highest level, the hunger among athletes worldwide, and the growing push to see wheelchair boxing included in the Paralympic Games. The trio dives into the future of adaptive boxing, the pathway to international recognition, and what it will take to build a sustainable competitive platform for athletes.Most importantly, they open the door to the next generation. If you’re interested in adaptive sports or think you have what it takes to step into the ring, Jody shares how to get connected, receive guidance, and even try out for the WABC boxing team.This episode is about more than sport — it’s about access, opportunity, and building a movement. Collin Kent-Facebookhttps://gofund.me/fe973e47 Jody Bennet- FacebookAka_captain_amazing-IG

In this powerful and down-to-earth episode, we sit down with Lelan for a conversation that feels less like an interview and more like three friends talking beside the tailgate after a long day.At 22 years old, Leland’s life changed in an instant when an accident left him paralyzed from the T4 level down. He shares what those early days were really like, including his inpatient rehab experience at TIRR Memorial Hermann — the challenges, the breakthroughs, and the mental battle that begins long before the physical healing feels complete.We also talk about something that isn’t discussed enough: relationships after injury. Leland opens up about his wife leaving him post-injury and the reality that many people face significant relationship loss after a life-altering event. It’s raw. It’s honest. And it’s real.From there, the conversation shifts into life now — his current wheelchair setup, the benefits of a titanium frame versus aluminum, and how the right equipment can mean freedom, efficiency, and independence. But beyond the gear talk, we dig into something deeper: dealing with life on life’s terms. Lelan reflects on what was harder to navigate — the mental adjustments or the physical changes — and how resilience isn’t about pretending things are easy, but choosing to keep going anyway.This episode is authentic, vulnerable, and hopeful. And it’s a reminder that while injury can change your circumstances, it doesn’t have to define your identity.Facebook: Lelan Wendel ForesterIG: Lelanforeser

In this episode, we sit down with Logan K. Finn to unpack a story shaped by resilience, struggle, and transformation.Born with spina bifida, Logan grew up feeling loved and supported — so much so that he often says he didn’t realize he had a disability. But in seventh grade, a spinal tethering surgery left him using a wheelchair. Still, he stayed active in school and pushed forward socially and academically.By his senior year, marijuana use escalated quickly into heavy drug and alcohol abuse. We talk honestly about how that progression happens, especially when identity, accountability, and mental health go unaddressed. The Quad-Father shares insight on the role school districts play in identifying and supporting students with special needs, and why mental health resources for children are critical.Logan reflects on growing up deeply loved — but rarely held accountable — and how that shaped his early adulthood. A powerful spiritual experience later marked a turning point, bringing immediate healing from a condition he had suffered with for three years and igniting his recovery journey.The Quad-Father closes the show with a heartfelt moment shared with Logan, reminding listeners that growth, responsibility, and redemption are always within reach. Facebook: Logan K FinnIG: logankfinn

Accessibility isn’t a courtesy — it’s a civil right.In this powerful episode, we sit down with Kristy Durso—accessible travel advocate, travel agent, wheelchair user, and co-founder of Spectrum of Accessibility—to unpack what public accessibility really looks like and why travel remains one of the most exclusionary experiences for disabled people.Kristy shares her life before becoming a full-time wheelchair user, the emotional and identity shifts that followed, and the moment she realized the world itself—not her disability—would be one of her biggest barriers. From “technically accessible” spaces that fail in practice to travel nightmares that put safety and dignity at risk, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what most people never see.We also explore where accessibility is done right around the world, where it falls painfully short, and how education within the hospitality industry can be a true game-changer. Through her work with Spectrum of Accessibility, Kristy is helping hotels, airlines, and venues move beyond checklists toward lived-experience inclusion that benefits everyone—disabled travelers, aging populations, families, and businesses alike.This episode is equal parts truth, accountability, and hope—and a clear call to action for both disabled and nondisabled listeners.If you travel, work in hospitality, or care about inclusion, this is a conversation you need to [email protected] Facebook @kristygoes IG

This is one of those episodes that stays with you long after the microphones are turned off.This conversation goes where disability conversations often don’t—into the quiet, heavy places. We talk about depression. Anxiety. The mental and emotional toll of disability that so often gets overlooked once the hospital stays end and the equipment is delivered.Our guest is Mike Kent, a Disability Life Coach and the founder of Empowering Disability, a global community of more than 9,000 members who are navigating life after injury, trauma, or diagnosis.Mike’s work goes far beyond motivation. Through Empowering Disability and MPower Coaching, he helps people confront anxiety, rebuild confidence, and rediscover their sense of worth—especially in the aftermath of life-changing events. He understands that the hardest battles aren’t always physical.But this conversation doesn’t stop in the darkness.Mike challenges us to look deeper—not at what was taken, but at how we respond to the cards we’re dealt. He reminds us that while disability may change the path, it does not erase purpose, value, or the ability to build a meaningful life.His message is clear and powerful: Disability is not the end of life. It’s an invitation to reclaim life—on our own terms.This is an episode about honesty, resilience, and the strength it takes to keep showing up when the world feels smaller than it used to. If you or someone you love has ever struggled with the mental weight of disability, this conversation is for you.IG: mikeawkentFB: Mike KentFacebook Support Group: Empowering Disability

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of gun violence, physical assault, and traumatic injury. Listener discretion is advised.Joseph Huerta’s story is one of brilliance, hardship, survival, and hard-earned faith. A top graduate in his class, Joseph’s life took an unexpected turn after family separation led him into homelessness, living in a tent city and navigating daily survival. What began as an act of kindness—being offered a place to stay by someone he trusted—quickly turned into a dangerous and life-altering situation.Joseph is a survivor of a violent home invasion. He was beaten and assaulted, and while running for the door to escape, he was shot in the back with a .40 caliber bullet. The impact shattered his spine at T11, leaving him paralyzed. In a moment that still echoes today, Joseph begged for his life as his attackers held a gun to his head.In this episode, Joseph speaks candidly about his early days in rehab, where he believed a back brace might allow him to walk again, and how the reality of paralysis set in. He shares how fellow patients—more than the clinical team—became his greatest teachers, helping him understand life in a wheelchair and how to truly adapt.After rehab, Joseph returned to California to live with his father, where new challenges emerged: ongoing battles with insurance, medical discrimination, and the harsh reality of managing a Stage 4 pressure wound that he has lived with for over three years. Rather than staying silent, Joseph turned his pain into purpose.Motivated by those who supported him in rehab, Joseph created his YouTube channel “Quick Tips,” where he answers real-world questions about activities of daily living for wheelchair users. He also launched his own clothing line, using creativity as another outlet for resilience and expression.Joseph opens up about how anger initially fueled his drive—but ultimately caused more harm than healing. At his lowest point, he turned to his faith, crying out to God for a sign—one that unmistakably came true and was captured on video.This episode also dives into honest, practical conversations around sex and intimacy after paralysis, wheelchair cushions, pressure relief techniques, and living with dignity despite constant obstacles. Raw, emotional, and deeply human, this is a powerful conversation about survival, accountability, faith, and finding meaning after everything changes.This is Joseph Huerta’s journey—and it’s one you won’t forget.Merch: T11merchproduct-6056.bigcartel.com@T11paraplegic youtubeinstagram.com/josephhuerta22?igsh=ODA1NTc5OTg5Nw==facebook.com/profile.php?id=100073011076748&mibextid=9R9pXO

At just 12 years old, Giusiana Prosser began experiencing medical symptoms that would change her life — symptoms that were dismissed, minimized, and misunderstood for years.After being told it was “all in her head,” Giusiana never stopped advocating for herself. At 19, she was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and at 21 with Andersen–Tawil Syndrome, finally giving a name to what her body had known all along. Today, she also lives with a tethered spinal cord.Now a artist, rare disease advocate, motivational speaker, and Ms. Wheelchair Washington USA, Giusiana uses her platform to challenge misconceptions around disability and share a powerful truth: “Rare isn’t rare.”In this episode, Giusiana opens up about growing up without answers, the emotional toll of not being believed, and how self-advocacy became her lifeline. She also shares how art, purpose, and resilience continue to shape her journey — including her upcoming path to Ms. Wheelchair USA 2026 and her artwork being featured at the Kennedy Center.This is a story about finding your voice, demanding to be heard, and choosing to live fully — even when the world doesn’t make it easy.🎧 Press play and meet Giusiana Prosser.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Tyler Keller, whose journey is rooted in grit, faith, and resilience. Tyler grew up on a small farm in Michigan, surrounded by rodeo culture—both of his parents were professional rodeo athletes, as were his older sisters. Following in their footsteps, Tyler competed at a national level, earning rodeo scholarships to Lamar Community College and later Northwestern Mesa College, where he continued to compete at an elite level.Everything changed in February 2015. During an early-morning drive through the dangerous Douglas Pass near Grand Junction, Colorado, Tyler lost control of his vehicle, crashing through a guardrail and plunging more than 180 feet. Miraculously, his vehicle landed on a ledge, preventing a further 2,000-foot fall. Severely injured, Tyler remained trapped in the wreckage for six to eight hours before emergency crews could reach him.Tyler’s road to recovery began at Craig Hospital in Colorado, where he underwent intense rehabilitation for his T4-T5 complete spinal cord injury. In this episode, he opens up about the physical and emotional challenges he faced, the victories along the way, and the unexpected role the hospital’s garden played in his healing and mindset. After being discharged, Tyler continued therapy five days a week for three years at the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan—refusing to give up on himself or his future.Today, Tyler’s story is far from over. He is a Division II Detroit Pistons wheelchair basketball player, an entrepreneur, a paid motivational speaker, actor, model and an active participant in shooting competitions with the Battle Buddy 3-Gun nonprofit organization. Tyler’s journey is one of perseverance, purpose, and redefining what’s possible after life changes in an instant. This is a story you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with Frances “Fran” Esteves, an Occupational Therapist with nearly 19 years of experience serving students across the Rio Grande Valley. Fran shares how her lifelong connection to movement — from dancing with a semi-professional ballet company to teaching classical ballet in North Dakota and coaching rhythmic gymnastics in McAllen — shaped her passion for working with children of all abilities.She reflects on her years teaching general and adaptive PE for Edinburg CISD, the moment she discovered occupational therapy, and how school-based practice became her calling. Fran talks about the realities of working across public, charter, and private schools, as well as in pediatric clinics in both Hidalgo and Cameron counties.Throughout the conversation, Fran offers insight into what students truly need, the challenges therapists face in schools, and why supporting kids’ functional skills is her life’s mission. Today, she continues that mission full-time with a local district — and she brings all that experience to this powerful, inspiring episode.

Episode Description — Season 1 Finale: “The First 15”In this special season finale, we hit pause and look back at the journey that brought us here. From powerful comeback stories to raw, unfiltered conversations about resilience, purpose, and real-life struggles, we revisit the first 15 episodes that shaped Season 1.Join us as we reflect on the lessons learned, the guests who left a mark, the moments that surprised us, and the stories that pushed us to grow. We share behind-the-scenes insights, our honest thoughts, and what this season has meant to us both personally and as creators.As we close out Season 1, we celebrate how far we’ve come — and get ready for what’s next. Whether you’ve been here since episode one or just discovered the show, this finale is the perfect way to wrap up the journey so far.

At just 17 years old, Charlie Merritt made a promise — to serve, to lead, and to never back down. Following in his father’s footsteps, he earned the title of United States Marine at Parris Island, beginning a journey defined by grit, discipline, and heart. After eight years on active duty and four in the reserves, Charlie carried that same intensity into life beyond the Corps — playing semi-pro football, competing in strongman events, and running his own company.But one dive — on what seemed like a perfect day — changed everything. A routine jump into the water ended in a catastrophic neck injury, leaving Charlie paralyzed from the shoulders down. He coded twelve times. Doctors didn’t expect him to make it. But Marines don’t quit.What followed was a comeback story unlike any other — a story of faith, family, and the power of purpose. Charlie turned pain into purpose, founding Stand Up For Me, a nonprofit that provides adaptive equipment for people with disabilities. He also found healing through music, writing 15 original songs — including “Me Without You,” a tribute to caregivers performed by Jelly Roll.Today, Charlie continues to lead by example — advocating for veterans, studying to become an ATP, and reminding the world that standing tall has nothing to do with walking.

For as long as he can remember, Mario Bonfante has lived for speed — from BMX tracks and motocross jumps to the smooth pavement of road racing. By the time he was sixteen, he had earned his pro card, chasing the dream of becoming one of the best. But in September of 2006, a BMX crash changed everything.The accident left him paralyzed — but not powerless.After months in the hospital and years of intense physical therapy in San Diego, Mario refused to let his injury define his limits. He wasn’t just rebuilding his body; he was rebuilding his future.When racing seemed out of reach, he decided to engineer his way back. With the same creativity and relentless drive that fueled his racing career, Mario taught himself how to design and build his own adaptive hand controls — custom setups that would let him get back behind the wheel. What started in his garage turned into a symbol of what’s possible when passion meets innovation.Now back in the Bay Area, Mario continues to push boundaries — whether it’s refining his designs, chasing new projects, or inspiring others to redefine what’s possible. For him, life is 5% physical and 95% mental. Tell him he can’t, and he’ll not only prove you wrong — he’ll figure out how to do it better.This is the story of Mario Bonfante — racer, engineer, and proof that no crash can stop someone who’s built to keep moving forward.

At just 18 years old, Armando Ramirez’s life changed in an instant. What began as an ordinary night ended in tragedy when a drive-by shooting left him fighting for his life. His heart stopped for 12 minutes. Doctors said the odds were slim — but Armando had other plans.Now living with a T9–T10 spinal cord injury, Armando has defied every expectation. From countless surgeries and rehab at Craig Hospital to rediscovering his love for painting cars and earning his real estate license, he’s proven that resilience runs deeper than muscle.In this powerful episode, Armando opens up about survival, faith, heartbreak, and the journey of finding purpose after trauma. His story is a reminder that even when life stops your heart, purpose can start it beating again.

In this episode, we sit down with Corey Lee — better known as Pheez. At just 18 years old, Corey joined the Navy on September 6, 2001, only five days before 9/11 changed the world. What he thought would be a four-year enlistment turned into deployments, life-altering experiences, and a path he never expected.Corey opens up about his time serving and the diving accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down. From that life-changing moment, he embarked on a journey of survival, resilience, and rediscovering purpose. Despite the challenges, he found love after his injury, bought an ADA-accessible home at the age of 24, and is now a proud father of two. Corey is also active in nonprofit organizations advocating for people with disabilities and has built an established music career, with several albums streaming on all platforms.His story is raw, unfiltered, and full of powerful lessons about facing tragedy head-on, thriving beyond it, and redefining what it means to live a meaningful life.Note for listeners: There are a few parts of the conversation with poor audio quality that couldn’t be fully fixed in post-production. We decided to keep them in because Corey’s story is too important not to share. Thank you for your understanding as you listen to this moving and impactful episode.

Listener discretion is advised. Eric’s story is raw, real, and unforgettable. After surviving two major crashes that left him with spinal cord injuries, he takes us inside the highs and lows of rehab—sharing how medication-induced hallucinations tested his mind, and how humor became his tool to calm others and himself. He recalls the unlikely moment that changed everything: eating a hamburger that reignited his drive to push through therapy and fight for independence.Eric also gets brutally honest about the personal challenges—missing his divorce court date while hospitalized, living in a nursing home for six months, and finding friendship in a resident named Maria. To close the episode, Eric and Danny break stigma wide open with a no-holds-barred discussion about sexuality after spinal cord injury—covering intimacy, fertility, precautions, and possibilities. Unfiltered and unapologetic, Eric proves that life after injury is still full of fight, love, laughter, and real talk.

Jody’s story is one of resilience, faith, and fighting spirit. He shares how a life-changing accident deepened his spiritual connection and set him on a journey of recovery at Craig Hospital. Through the ups and downs, he battled depression and discovered purpose and joy in adaptive sports. Today, Jody is not only the reigning Wheelchair Boxing Heavyweight Champion but also a loving father, a devoted fiancé—recently proposing in London—and a man who leads with humor and heart. His journey reminds us that true strength is found in perseverance, passion, and love.

Episode Description (Dr. Julia Bramwell) In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Julia Bramwell, a board-certified pediatrician who has dedicated over two decades to medicine before making a bold shift to launch Invest in My Health Corp. Julia opens up about her personal journey, the challenges she faced, and the pivotal experiences that reshaped her path.We talk about her “rage against the machine” — her fearless investigative work uncovering the misuse of funds within the healthcare system, and how that fight has fueled her mission to create more transparency and accountability. Julia also shares her insights into the benefits of ketamine therapy, its potential to heal, and why she believes it is an important tool in the landscape of modern medicine.But Julia doesn’t just tell her story — she challenges us. In one of the most memorable moments of the conversation, she turns the tables and asks us why we are passionate about the work we do.This episode is both eye-opening and deeply personal, offering a look at medicine, advocacy, and healing through the lens of someone who has lived it, fought for it, and continues to innovate for the future.

In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Britt Sitzes, OTR/ATP — from performing as a clown to becoming an occupational therapist and later a respected ATP. Britt’s career path is full of unexpected turns, but each step shaped the impact he would go on to make in the mobility world.We talk about his time at National Seating and Mobility in Austin, where he helped grow one of the company’s most successful branches. Britt also shares stories from the early days of RESNA and Adorno Mobility, giving us a glimpse into how the industry has evolved. Now retired, Britt reflects on his career, the people he’s served, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.This episode blends history, equipment talk, and personal insight from someone who’s been at the heart of mobility for decades.

Episode 7: Phillip Bramwell: Finding Freedom in LaughterIn this episode, we welcome comedian and performer Phillip Bramwell. Born with quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy, Phillip brings a sharp sense of humor and a fresh perspective on life, independence, and disability. With a background that includes professional acting and modeling, he’s no stranger to the stage—and now he uses comedy as his platform to connect, educate, and entertain.Phillip opens up about the realities of living with CP, the role humor plays in navigating everyday challenges, and his belief in the power of education and earning a living through passion. Outside of comedy, he enjoys traveling, catching live shows, and building meaningful relationships.This episode is full of laughs, real talk, and honest reflections—showing how Phillip transforms challenges into stories that inspire and entertain. Listeners can connect and support Phillip here:· Venmo: "WheelchairPhillip"Support the comedy, keep the wheels spinning.· Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wheelchairphillip/– Follow for comedy clips, behind-the-scenes, and live show updates.· Fourth Star: A fully immersive metaverse experience where you can buy ships, own apartments, design avatars, and pull up to Phil’s comedy shows in true VR style. Use his referral link and promo code: SPOFF85 while the discount lasts. Don’t just listen to comedy — be part of it. https://www.fourthstar.com/?fpr=phillip85&fbclid=IwY2xjawMfQepleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFESGxiWEpESFJPTmsxZzVkAR7_fJjVIbRnYomgyRr4ZpKg4CVzaLfqL_x-JZ_vhl-s8uwnH2U4zqci-kqLiw_aem_lJWjKqudZlQWjG2GQuMFdg#ComedyPodcast #WheelchairComedian #DisabilityHumor #CerebralPalsyAwareness #StandUpComedyPodcast #FourthStar #ChairChaser

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Allison Kyral, DPT, to explore the world of adaptive fitness, physical therapy, and patient care for individuals with spinal cord injuries. Alyson shares her journey pursuing her DPT, the experiences that shaped her approach, and her passion for creating inclusive fitness spaces. We also dive into her work with newly injured individuals, what they can expect during recovery, and how adaptive athletics can play a role in rehabilitation. Plus, we discuss the insights of ATP professionals and practical strategies for empowering people of all abilities to move, train, and thrive.Whether you’re a student, a professional in healthcare or fitness, or someone interested in adaptive sports, this conversation is packed with education, inspiration, and actionable advice.

In this inspiring episode, Shawn Simmons opens up about his journey of perseverance after a below-the-knee amputation. Through determination and rehab, he discovered wheelchair basketball — first playing with the ParaSports Spurs and now competing at the collegiate level with the University of Texas at Arlington. His dedication has also led to an invitation to the DK3 Wheelchair Basketball Invitational. Shawn shares heartfelt shoutouts to those who supported him along the way, reflecting on the importance of community and resilience. A proud father of three, he also talks about the legacy of perseverance in his family, including his grandmother who earned her bachelor’s degree at the age of 83. Shawn’s story is a testament to strength, faith, and never giving up.

From the softball field to the stables, Victoria’s journey is one of grit, grace, and growth. In this episode of The Wheelchair Roundtable, Victoria shares her powerful story—from the day her life changed with a diagnosis of Cauda Equina Syndrome, to the long road of recovery that followed. Before her injury, she was fiercely competitive on the softball field. Today, she holds a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is setting her sights on building an Equine-Assisted Learning program to help others heal and grow.Victoria opens up about the physical and emotional challenges, the role of horses in her future plans, and the unwavering love and support she’s received from her family and boyfriend. Her story is a reminder that while life can change in an instant, purpose and passion can still carry you forward.

In this episode of The Wheelchair Roundtable, we pull up a seat with Mario — a C5/C6 incomplete spinal cord injury survivor whose story is a blueprint of resilience. After facing the unthinkable, Mario didn’t stop at survival. He went back to school, pushed through the barriers, and pursued a master’s degree in civil engineering.Through grit, determination, and an unshakable sense of purpose, Mario shows us that rebuilding your life is possible — even when the foundation feels like it’s crumbled. His story is a testament to the power of education, community, and self-belief in the face of adversity.So whether you’re freshly injured, working in rehab, or simply need a reminder that setbacks don’t define you — this episode is for you.Let’s roll into Mario’s story.

In this powerful episode of The Wheelchair Roundtable, we pull up a seat with Danny Flores, a resilient force from right here in the Rio Grande Valley. Danny shares the raw, unfiltered story of the day everything changed—a C5/C6 incomplete spinal cord injury that rewired his body but never touched his spirit.We talk about what it means to wake up in a new body, the mental mountain that follows the physical one, and the rehab trenches that test you in ways no one prepares you for. From moments of doubt to flashes of pure strength, Danny opens up about life after the injury—and what keeps him rolling forward.This isn’t just a story about survival. It’s about reinvention, community, and crushing the stigma that comes with a wheelchair. Whether you're an ally, a clinician, or rolling this road yourself, Danny’s journey will hit home.

Welcome to the debut episode of Wheelchair Roundtable! 🎙️In this opener, your hosts Rico and Roland—both proud Assistive Technology Professionals (ATPs)—break down what an ATP actually does, and why this role is a critical piece of the mobility puzzle.But we’re not just talking job titles—we’re getting personal. We share our own journeys into the world of assistive technology, the people and experiences that inspired us, and what it really means to blend technical knowledge with heart.Whether you're part of the wheelchair community, a clinician, a caregiver, or just curious about how mobility devices come to life—this episode sets the tone for a podcast rooted in real stories, professional insight, and a passion for empowering independence.Let’s roll.