Don't Worry. Do Wheelies!

When Sitting Hurts | Ep 46

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 06:01:00 GMT

Pain is a constant companion in early rehabilitation, but not all pain means progress. In this episode, Lorie shares a story about being forced to stay upright when her body simply could not tolerate it and the moment she took matters into her own hands.

Abbie and Lorie unpack the fine line between pushing for recovery and listening to the body’s limits. This conversation offers clarity about pain, patience, and why honoring individual experience is one of the most hopeful paths toward long-term recovery.

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Back on the Horse | Ep 45

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:01:00 GMT

After a spinal cord injury, some dreams feel too risky to revisit. In this episode, Lorie tells the story of how her lifelong love of horses became one of her greatest motivators in recovery. From the first cautious ride to rebuilding core strength through equine therapy, this conversation explores how passion can drive healing.

Together, Abbie and Lorie reflect on courage, adaptation, and why returning to what you love, even if differently, can restore both body and spirit.

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The Snowball Fight That Changed Everything | Ep 44

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Lorie shares a story from early rehabilitation that begins with snow, mischief, and a group of teenagers in wheelchairs — and ends with a powerful lesson about healing. What starts as a simple snowball fight becomes a reminder that laughter, play, and connection are not distractions from recovery, but essential parts of it.

Abbie and Lorie reflect on how moments of joy can exist alongside grief, and how rebuilding a life after spinal cord injury often begins with the smallest, most human experiences.

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Why Your Voice Matters After SCI | Ep 43

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 06:01:00 GMT

In Part Two of our conversation with Kelley Simoneaux, we widen the lens beyond pressure sores to explore the legal and systemic issues that shape daily life after spinal cord injury.

Kelley shares what she sees in cases involving medical negligence, durable medical equipment delays, airline travel, and institutional care, and how small failures can quietly create lifelong consequences.

We talk about when to speak up, how to document your care, where community data can create change, and why lived experience matters in reshaping policy and practice.

This episode is about clarity. About knowing your rights, understanding the systems around you, and learning how individual voices can come together to protect the life you are building. If you need to know more about your rights, find Kelley on Instagram as @pushylawyer for more information.

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Pressure Sores Should Never Be Normal | Ep 42

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 06:02:00 GMT

In this episode, we talk with Kelley Simoneaux, a lawyer and spinal cord injury advocate who has dedicated her work to preventing pressure sores and changing how hospitals care for people after SCI.

Kelley shares how the Stop Pressuring Us campaign began, why pressure sores should never be considered a normal part of life after injury, and what early prevention truly looks like in the hospital and rehab setting.

Together, we talk about the patterns that lead to long term complications, the quiet assumptions that allow preventable injuries to happen, and how individuals and families can begin advocating for better care from the very beginning.

This is a conversation about reclaiming what is possible, building systems that protect people, and remembering that a better outcome is not luck. It is something we can plan for.

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How One Spinal Cord Injury Changed the Law | Ep 41

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 06:01:00 GMT

In this episode of Don’t Worry, Do Wheelies, Abbie and Lorie sit down with Kelley Simoneaux, a spinal cord–injured attorney and founder of a nationwide spinal cord injury law firm. Injured in a car accident at just 16 years old due to a defective seatbelt design, Kelley shares how her personal injury case helped change vehicle safety standards—and ultimately shaped her career path.

Kelley walks listeners through her journey from patient to plaintiff, law school to law firm owner, and explains why lived experience matters when navigating legal claims after a spinal cord injury. This conversation highlights product liability, patient advocacy, and why sometimes it takes legal action to force systemic change. An empowering episode for anyone living with a spinal cord injury or supporting someone who is.

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I am More than My Injury: Lessons from Jerod | Ep 40

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 16:16:11 GMT

If you’re tired of being seen only through the lens of your spinal cord injury, this episode is for you.

Jerod, Lorie, and Abbie talk about the invisible weight that comes with SCI—the invasion of privacy for information about your injury, representing the disability community as a whole, and having to be an advocate for the needs that exist as a person living with quadriplegia or paraplegia.

They open up about self-imposed limits, the emotional toll of feeling like a spokesperson for the entire wheelchair community, and how they set boundaries on who gets access to their story. Most importantly, they explore what it means to take back your identity, stop apologizing for where you are, and start living for yourself again.

This isn’t about giving up—it’s about redefining freedom on your terms.

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Moving Past the Worst Day to His Life’s Work: Meet Jerod of Positively Paralyzed

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 05:02:00 GMT

Jerod never set out to start a movement—he just wanted to stay in touch with people back home. But after joining an epidural stimulation study and launching Positively Paralyzed, Jerod’s mission quickly evolved into something much bigger.

In this episode, he shares how he transformed the most devastating moment of his life into a growing business and a powerful platform for connection, consulting, and community. From teaching adaptive fitness classes to advising major pharmaceutical companies and universities, Jerod is focused on shaping a better future for those living with spinal cord injuries.

His message? You can’t always choose what happens to you—but you can choose what you build from it.

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“I Had to Choose Discomfort”: Yaz on Starting Over | Ep 38

Fri, 23 May 2025 06:51:08 GMT

What if growth meant choosing discomfort—on purpose? In this deeply personal episode, Yaz shares what it was like to start life over in a new body after his spinal cord injury. From not laughing for four months to feeling like SCI rehab brought him to the edge of survival, Yaz doesn’t hold back.

But in that darkness, he found something powerful: the ability to connect more deeply with people who had been through something life-altering too. He talks about what changed when he stopped avoiding hard situations, and how other people with SCI helped him feel seen, strong, and capable again.

This episode is raw, real, and ultimately hopeful—for anyone learning to live again after everything has changed.

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Yaz on Owning the First Year After SCI | Ep 37

Mon, 19 May 2025 14:41:10 GMT

The first year after a spinal cord injury can feel impossible to overcome at times— but it doesn’t have to be the end of your story. In this episode, Yaz shares how he went from facing the overwhelming reality of paralysis to problem-solving his way back to independent living, even in an inaccessible home.

He opens up about the setbacks, the learning curves (hello, pressure sore prevention and UTI management), and how a little hope — plus seeing other people actually thriving in wheelchairs — lit a fire in him.

This conversation is real, relatable, and packed with reminders that you can keep moving forward, even when it feels impossible. If you’re new to SCI or just need proof that progress is possible, start here.

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“It All Changed in a Second”: Yaz’s Story and What the First Year After SCI Is Really Like

Fri, 09 May 2025 16:34:17 GMT

In this powerful kickoff episode, we meet Yaz—whose life changed instantly after a paragliding accident just one year ago. He shares the raw truth of those first moments, the unexpected challenges, and the mindset that carried him forward.

Before diving into the lessons from his first year after spinal cord injury in our next episode, Yaz opens up about what no one tells you when the hospital stay ends and real life begins.

Whether you're newly injured or supporting someone who is, this episode will ground you, guide you, and remind you that you're not alone in figuring it all out.

Let's meet Yaz!

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When Your Partner Becomes Your Caregiver: Erin on Adapting Together After SCI

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 05:01:00 GMT

In this honest and empowering episode, Erin shares what it’s really like when your spouse or significant other takes on the role of caregiver. She talks about the early challenges, the mindset shifts that helped her adjust, and how she and her partner learned to move forward as a team—without losing the heart of their relationship.

Erin also introduces The Ten Percent App, a social media app created specifically for people with disabilities to connect, share experiences, and build community.

If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate changing roles in a relationship or where to find people who just get it, this conversation is for you.

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“Do They Really Just Say That?” Erin on Reclaiming Her Space After SCI

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 21:25:02 GMT

Getting back out into the world after a spinal cord injury can feel like entering a different planet. In this episode, Erin—who lives with quadriplegia—shares what it’s really like to return to the community, from the frustrating stares and awkward comments to the powerful moments of reclaiming confidence and showing up boldly. Her stories are honest, eye-opening, and deeply relatable for anyone who's had to navigate a world that doesn’t always understand disability.

Whether you're newly injured or years into your journey, this conversation will make you feel seen—and remind you that you’re not alone.

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This Isn’t the End: How Erin Built a New Life—and a Community—After SCI

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:30:04 GMT

If you’ve ever wondered whether life can still be full after a spinal cord injury, Erin is here to show you what’s possible. In this trailer episode, she opens up about life as a woman with quadriplegia—how she’s not just surviving, but thriving. Erin is launching a social media platform built by and for people with disabilities, and she’s currently pursuing her master’s in mental health counseling to support others on their journeys. Her story is real, uplifting, and packed with hope.

You can find Erin on social media at the link in the podcast or here: @erin.fieldd. And find her upcoming social media platform here: @thetenpercentapp.

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Breaking the Mold: Abbie’s Bold Leap into Virtual SCI Rehab

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 05:01:00 GMT

Why would a seasoned neurologic physical therapist walk away from the traditional insurance-based model to create something entirely new? In this episode, Abbie shares her journey of founding AbbieRoad Physical Therapy, a private practice that delivers spinal cord injury rehab exclusively through digital platforms. She reveals the frustrations that led her to rethink rehab, the challenges of building a new model, and the incredible impact virtual therapy is having on her clients. Tune in to discover why she believes this is the future of SCI recovery—and how she’s making it happen.

Would you like any adjustments to better capture your voice or vision?

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Rolling into the Workforce: Lorie’s Journey to Work After SCI | Ep 31

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 05:01:00 GMT

In this episode, Lorie shares her experience of returning to work after a spinal cord injury. She opens up about how she knew she was ready to re-enter the workforce, the accommodations she requested to ensure accessibility and productivity, and the strategies she uses to maintain her health while working. Listeners will walk away with three key lessons:

Recognizing Readiness: Understanding the emotional and physical signs that indicate when you have the capacity to start a job after an SCI.
Advocating for Accommodations: How to communicate needs with employers and secure the necessary support for a successful work experience.
Prioritizing Health on the Job: Tips for managing energy, mobility, and well-being while balancing work responsibilities.

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Giovanni's Successful Mindset for Recovery | Ep 30

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 06:01:00 GMT

In this episode, Giovanni, Lorie, and Abbie discuss the crucial role of personal effort in spinal cord injury recovery. While medical professionals provide initial guidance, long-term progress depends on the individual’s dedication. Abbie highlights the need for a clear roadmap for post-rehabilitation care, while Lorie emphasizes integrating recovery into daily life. Giovanni shares his experience with a physical therapist who pushed him to train like a professional athlete, reinforcing the value of hard work and persistence. They conclude that sustained motivation and finding positive feedback from effort are key to a successful recovery journey.

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Giovanni's Rehab from a Toe Wiggle to Walking Again | Ep 29

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 06:01:00 GMT

In this episode, Giovanni shares his journey of recovery from a spinal cord injury, emphasizing the role of movement, perseverance, and structured training. He describes how spending time in the pool improved his circulation and mobility, the impact of high-volume repetitions, and the support he received from Abbie in her online SCI training program customized for Giovanni's abilities and his goals. From the training program he was able to strengthen more of his leg muscles in order to progress from a rollator to crutches and flat surfaces to hiking again. His progress continued with the use of an electric bike, covering an impressive 7,000 kilometers in a year.

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SCI Survivor Story: Meet Giovanni | Ep. 28

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 06:01:00 GMT

In this episode, Abbie and Lorie welcome Giovanni, who shares his experience of sustaining a spinal cord injury in 2022 after a 40-meter fall from a mountain. Initially uncertain about his future, Giovanni has been working for the past year and a half while navigating a "wobbly phase" in his recovery—able to walk but still facing instability. He reflects on both his progress and ongoing frustrations, highlighting the complex emotions of rehabilitation. Stay tuned! This is just an intro to a two-part episode to go through his rehab and his resilient mindset!

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Sticking Together: Arachnoiditis and SCI | Ep 27

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 06:01:00 GMT

In this episode, Abbie and Lorie tackle the tough topic of arachnoiditis, a chronic inflammation of the spinal cord’s protective membrane that can cause adhesions, nerve pain, and complex challenges for those with spinal cord injuries. Lorie shares her personal journey with this condition, including her experiences with nerve cysts and the tricky balance of managing risks with her medical team.

The duo discusses the importance of proactive measures like testing and the critical role of movement and medication in managing symptoms. Along the way, Lorie offers inspiring insights into staying positive, minimizing stress, and finding strength through knowledge and a resilient attitude.

With honesty and hope, this episode provides valuable perspectives for anyone navigating the twists and turns of life with arachnoiditis or other spinal cord conditions.

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Bladder Matters Part 2 with Erin | Ep 26

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 06:01:00 GMT

In this episode, Abbie, Lorie, and Erin wrap up their conversation on bladder management, diving into the final frontier: finding control with a lower motor neuron injury and finding the perfect pelvic floor specialist. Erin shares actionable tips for identifying a skilled provider who understands spinal cord injury-specific needs and emphasizes the importance of personalized care for better outcomes.

The discussion highlights the role of pelvic floor exercises in improving bladder function, from managing leaks to reducing reliance on catheters. Along the way, they share relatable stories, lighthearted humor, and practical advice to help listeners take charge of their bladder health.

Whether you’re navigating the world of pelvic floor therapy for the first time or looking to level up your care, this episode is your guide to reclaiming control with confidence and maybe even a few laughs along the way!

To reach Erin for more information please email erin.gandy@gmail.com.

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Cracking the Code of SCI Bowel Programs with Erin | Ep 25

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 06:01:00 GMT

Abbie, Lorie, and guest Erin take a deep dive into one of the most delicate but essential topics in spinal cord injury rehabilitation: bowel programs. Erin unpacks the science behind stimulant and osmotic laxatives, fiber, and stool softeners, offering practical tips and thoughtful guidance for navigating the complexities of bowel management.

The trio explores how upper and lower motor neuron injuries affect bowel routines, why some approaches work better for specific injuries, and the importance of finding a personalized plan. Lorie shares her preference for natural methods and her experiences with trial and error, while Erin explains why certain medications might be a game-changer for some and a no-go for others.

With humor, empathy, and expert insights, this episode equips listeners with the tools to tackle bowel challenges head-on—whether it’s understanding medications, fine-tuning a schedule, or even exploring pelvic floor exercises. Because when it comes to bowel management, knowledge truly is power! To contact Erin for a SCI bowel and bladder management consult please email erin.gandy@gmail.com!

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SCI Bladder & Bowel Basics Part 1 | Ep 24

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 06:01:14 GMT

In this episode, Abbie, Erin, and Lorie get real about the intricacies of managing bladder and bowel functions after spinal cord injury. Erin breaks down the key differences between upper and lower motor neuron injuries, explaining how they affect reflexes, muscle tone, and sphincter control. The trio dives into practical strategies for maintaining a healthy catheter schedule, balancing fluid intake, and avoiding complications like infections and kidney damage.

Lorie shares her personal challenges with dehydration and bowel management, revealing how measuring water intake and experimenting with medication can make all the difference. Erin offers actionable tips—like setting hydration benchmarks and adjusting bowel routines—to help navigate these daily hurdles with confidence and care.

If you’ve ever struggled with finding balance in SCI bladder and bowel management, this episode is packed with insight, empathy, and solutions to help keep things flowing smoothly! Make sure you come back for Part 2!

Connect with Erin to learn more about bladder management at erin.gandy@gmail.com!

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The Bottom Line: Tackling Continence with Confidence | Ep 23

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 06:01:44 GMT

In this episode, Abbie and Lorie are joined by occupational therapist Erin to dive into one of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects of spinal cord injury rehabilitation: continence management. Together, they explore the functional role of occupational therapy in addressing bowel and bladder challenges, sharing practical tips and real-world experiences. Erin opens up about advocating for clients, fostering collaboration with treatment teams, and the importance of honest, grounded conversations with physicians about functional outcomes. If you’ve ever wondered about the nitty-gritty of SCI rehab, this episode sets the stage for an even deeper dive into the technicalities of managing your bowel and bladder, so it doesn't override your daily life. To connect with Erin for more information on bowel and bladder management please email her at erin.gandy@gmail.com!

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Relationship Changes after SCI | Ep 22

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 06:02:43 GMT

Life changes after a spinal cord injury, and so do relationships. In this episode, we talk about how things can shift with your partner, family, and friends—and how to handle those changes. Lorie shares her personal stories and tips for keeping connections strong, setting boundaries, and finding support when you need it most. Whether you’re rebuilding old relationships or starting new ones, this episode is all about growing together after SCI.

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Feeling the Burn: Understanding Neuropathic Pain | Ep 21

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 06:02:07 GMT

In this episode, we dive into neuropathic pain—the tingling, burning, or electric shock-like pain that can come after a spinal cord injury. Lorie shares what it’s like to live with this unique type of pain and offers tips for managing it day to day. This episode is all about giving you tools to take control and feel more comfortable in your own skin.

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Pain, Pain, Go Away: Part 1 – What’s Nociceptive Pain? | Ep 20

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 05:41:23 GMT

In the first part of this two-episode series on pain, we talk about nociceptive pain—what it is, why it happens, and what you can do about it. Abbie explains that this is the kind of pain that comes from things like sore muscles or problems with your organs. Lorie shares simple tips and real-life examples to help you figure out what’s going on with your body and how to feel better. If pain is a part of your life after SCI, this episode will help you understand it and start taking control.

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Med Check: Going from 16 Scripts to Zero | Ep 19

Sat, 21 Dec 2024 04:45:27 GMT

In this episode, Lorie gets real about her journey with medication overload—starting with 16 prescriptions and ending with a life-changing wake-up call when she lost the ability to swallow. Forced to quit her meds cold turkey, she learned the hard way about the importance of taking an active role in choosing treatments that truly benefit your life. The conversation covers how to evaluate your medications, ask the right questions, and collaborate with your healthcare team to ensure every pill serves a purpose. It’s a story of finding balance, taking control, and redefining what "healthy" really means.

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Just a Flesh Wound | Ep 18

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 06:01:55 GMT

In this episode, Lorie shares a personal and eye-opening experience about how a seemingly harmless callus turned into a serious pressure sore, ultimately leading to an infection. This incident underscores the importance of proactive and regular self-monitoring for individuals living with spinal cord injuries. Lorie discusses how SCI disrupts the body's natural autopilot systems, making vigilance essential for maintaining overall health. From skin checks to functional assessments, she emphasizes actionable steps listeners can take to prevent complications and safeguard their well-being. This episode is a candid reminder that small oversights can have big consequences, but awareness and consistency can make all the difference.

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Skin in the Game: Winning the Pressure Relief Challenge | Ep 17

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 01:57:22 GMT

In this episode, we dive deep into the art and science of managing skin health and performing effective pressure reliefs after a spinal cord injury. From understanding the importance of routine pressure checks to mastering practical techniques, we share insights that empower you to stay ahead of pressure sores and maintain your independence. Whether you're navigating life in a wheelchair or supporting someone who is, this episode blends expert advice with actionable tips to keep you informed, motivated, and in control of your skin health. Don't miss out—your skin will thank you!

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Mischief Managed: Wheelie Adventures

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 05:35:07 GMT

In this lively episode, Lorie shares hilarious and heartwarming stories of sneaky escapades with fellow inpatients during her rehab days. From daring late-night adventures to the heroic (and sometimes exasperated) rescue missions by staff, these tales showcase the camaraderie, mischief, and spirit of life on wheels. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a reminder that even in challenging times, fun and connection are essential!

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Build Strong Bones, Roll Stronger

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 15:27:38 GMT

In this episode, Abbie and Lorie dive into the critical topic of maintaining bone density for individuals with spinal cord injuries. They discuss the benefits of weight-bearing exercises and parameters for incorporating them into daily life. With their signature mix of positivity and expertise, they also stress the importance of being proactive, from getting bone density scans to planning safe approaches to physical activity. Tune in to learn practical strategies to keep your bones healthy and your wheelies strong!

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"Complete" or "Incomplete" SCI Doesn't Tell the Full Story | Ep 14

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 06:01:28 GMT

Abbie and Lorie shed light on the common yet incomplete understanding of spinal cord injury classifications—“complete” vs. “incomplete.” They explain how these labels only scratch the surface when it comes to the complexity of spinal cord injuries and how function and recovery can vary widely, regardless of the initial diagnosis. Through real-life examples and clinical insights, Abbie discusses why these terms don’t always predict a person’s long-term mobility or potential for recovery.

Additionally, the episode dispels the widespread myth that spinal cord injuries are typically caused by the spinal cord being “severed.” Abbie explains that in most cases, the injury is the result of loss of blood flow to the spinal cord, causing damage to the nerves and tissue. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how spinal cord injuries happen, the importance of individualized rehabilitation, and why the injury label doesn’t define your potential for progress.

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Decoding the ASIA Exam | Ep 13

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 05:01:45 GMT

In this episode, Abbie and Lorie tackle the often misunderstood and confusing topic of the ASIA (American Spinal Injury Association) exam, a key tool used to assess spinal cord injuries. Listeners are guided through the purpose of the exam, how it’s conducted, and what the results truly indicate about a person's injury level and potential for recovery.

This is a confusing topic. Bring a pen/pencil and an open mind! Abbie breaks down the components of the ASIA exam—motor and sensory scoring, the ASIA impairment scale, and the classification of injury—while debunking common myths and misinterpretations that can lead to unnecessary anxiety or false expectations for patients.

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Rolling Beyond Limits: Wheelchair Skills | Ep 12

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 05:01:00 GMT

Lorie shares her personal experiences in developing these skills, recounting her own learning curve and moments of triumph that have lead to skills that allow her access to exploring the outdoors in her manual wheelchair. Abbie adds clinical insights, emphasizing the importance of individualized training, safety strategies, and skill development in real-world environments safely.

They also explore the wide range of equipment available to support different terrains, including off-road tires, power assist devices, and adaptive attachments that enhance mobility.

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The Art of a Good Wheelchair Fit | Ep. 11

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 05:01:55 GMT

In this episode, we dive deep into the often-overlooked but crucial aspect of wheelchair fitting: the cushion. We explore how choosing the right cushion can dramatically improve comfort, posture, and even overall health for wheelchair users. With the guidance of experts in seating and mobility, listeners learn about the ways that they can advocate for a better wheelchair fit.

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Wheelchair Timeline: From Power to a Ferrari | Ep 10

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 16:04:28 GMT

In this episode, we follow Lorie’s inspiring recovery story as she transitions from using a power wheelchair to a manual one. After sustaining a significant injury, Lorie begins her rehabilitation journey using a power chair to support her mobility while focusing on her medical and physical recovery. With the help of her physical therapists, she gradually builds strength and regains mobility, eventually becoming strong enough to switch to a manual wheelchair.

The episode highlights the challenges and triumphs Lorie faces during this transition, from mastering the skills needed for independent mobility in a manual chair to learning how to optimize her wheelchair fit. Through trial and error, she learns how to make adjustments to improve posture, comfort, and overall function in her manual wheelchair.

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Pushing for a Healthier Tomorrow | Ep 9

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 05:01:49 GMT

In this compelling episode, Lorie opens up about her struggle with chronic pain, particularly the challenges posed by her fluctuating blood pressure and heart rate. She shares her daily battle against the temptation to lay down for temporary relief, acknowledging that stepping out of her "cocoon of happiness" and facing discomfort is crucial for managing her condition. Abbie and Lorie delve into the lifelong nature of spinal cord injury recovery, emphasizing the importance of consistent practice, active management, and cardiovascular health. They explore the balance between pushing boundaries and avoiding overexertion, all while keeping an eye on the future and the hope for medical advancements. This episode is a candid exploration of resilience, perseverance, and the pursuit of a long, healthy life.

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The Trial and Error of Regaining Strength | Ep 8

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 05:01:04 GMT

In this inspiring episode, Lorie shares her journey of regaining strength and independence as she transitions from rehab to living on her own after a significant ankle injury. Abigail and Lorie discuss the progress she has made in physical therapy, focusing on her use of various mobility aids and the critical role of independent rehabilitation. They explore the delicate balance between relying on devices to aid movement and working towards safe, effective gait patterns.

Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, setting realistic goals, and leveraging available resources to support a successful recovery. Lorie's story highlights the challenges and triumphs of reclaiming independence and taking the steps—literally and figuratively—toward walking again.

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The Long Haul: Rehab | Ep 7

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 05:01:54 GMT

In this episode, Lorie recounts her inpatient rehabilitation experience following her spinal cord injury, highlighting the challenges and breakthroughs she encountered along the way. She shares how the personalized approach of her rehab team played a crucial role in her recovery, helping her rebuild her strength and regain independence. Lorie discusses the importance of creating an individualized foundation during rehab, tailored to each patient's unique needs and goals.

Abbie and Lorie also address the concerns surrounding the overreliance on medication in the rehabilitation process. They advocate for a more personalized approach to pain management, focusing on holistic strategies that complement physical recovery.

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Waking up in the Hospital | Ep 6

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 05:01:23 GMT

In this powerful episode, Lorie opens up about the life-altering accident that led to her spinal cord injury. She recounts the details of the incident, the shock of the initial impact, and the immediate aftermath. Lorie then takes listeners through her hospital stay, describing the physical and emotional challenges she faced during this overwhelming time. She reflects on the difficulties of navigating the medical system, the complexities of her injury, and the mental toll of the pain and care on the step down floor.

Lorie shares what she wishes she had known before going through this experience, including the importance of advocating for herself, understanding the medical terminology, and the value of a strong support system. She emphasizes the need for better patient education on spinal cord injuries and how early knowledge could have better prepared her for the road ahead. This episode serves as both a personal reflection and a guide for others who may find themselves in similar situations, offering valuable insights and lessons learned.

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Just for Fun | Ep 5

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 05:05:51 GMT

While advocating and empowering those with SCI, Lorie and Abbie also have a fun side! Lorie shares her journey with her love of horses and how it helped her through her recovery. Abbie shares that she is a twin and answers the all powerful question, "Do you like being a twin?"

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Unlock Your Full Potential...Even after 2 years! | Ep 4

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 05:01:06 GMT

Abbie and Lorie tackle the common two-year narrative associated with spinal cord injuries, diving deep into both the physical and emotional challenges faced during this time. They discuss the critical role of proper wheelchair fitting and the importance of understanding spinal shock and its impact on recovery. Abbie brings a medical perspective, addressing flaws in current research, while Lorie shares her personal journey, highlighting the discrepancies between clinical expectations and real-life experiences. Together, they explore how pushing beyond traditional recovery timelines and optimizing wheelchair fit and exercise can lead to improved health and longevity.

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Why are we Podcasting? | Ep 3

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 05:00:30 GMT

In this trailer episode of "Don't Worry, Do Wheelies," Abbie and Lorie talk about their shift from short-form Instagram content to a more expansive podcast format. They explain how this transition allows them to share the full stories of Lorie and other guests, offering a deeper dive into the realities of neurological recovery. Through these longer conversations, they aim to debunk myths, prove key principles of recovery, and explore the triumphs and tribulations others have experienced on their journeys.

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A Dynamic Duo | Ep 2

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 05:00:15 GMT

In this second trailer episode of "Don't Worry, Do Wheelies," Abbie and Lorie dive into their professional and personal experiences with rehabilitation and disability. Abbie discusses her shift from traditional inpatient care to innovative outpatient virtual therapy, driven by a mission to make rehabilitation more accessible. Lorie shares her perspective as a disabled individual, stressing the importance of self-awareness, patient advocacy, and the positive impact of social media on mental health. Together, they underscore the crucial role of becoming your own advocate in the journey of spinal cord injury rehabilitation.

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The Backstory | Ep 1

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 03:58:01 GMT

In the trailer episode of the "Don't Worry, Do Wheelies" podcast, hosts Abbie and Lorie share the story behind their decision to launch the show. They reflect on how their Instagram live sessions sparked the idea to create a podcast that offers a deeper exploration of spinal cord injury topics. The podcast is designed to be a resource, providing valuable insights from their personal experiences, including both triumphs and setbacks, to help others on their rehabilitation journeys. Lorie also opens up about her background and motivations for starting the podcast, emphasizing their shared passion for making a positive impact.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.