When I had my accident, my world changed overnight. I was terrified, overwhelmed, and unsure of what kind of life I could have. There were days filled with frustration, sadness, and moments when I couldn’t even lift my head to meet someone’s eyes. I felt disconnected from the world around me.

Then I found Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, and everything started to shift. They don’t just help people survive, they help people thrive. Through their programs, peer mentors, and community events, I met people who understood exactly what I was going through — people who showed me that happiness and purpose were still possible. Seeing others living full, active lives after a spinal cord injury gave me hope and the courage to rebuild.

With the support of SCIO, I regained not just my independence, but also my confidence and sense of belonging. I learned to see my injury not as an ending, but as the beginning of a new chapter — one filled with opportunities and growth.

Today, I live with more gratitude, determination, and joy than I ever imagined. SCIO didn’t just help me recover; they helped me rediscover who I am.