Karen

Age: 63

Location: Arizona

Injury or relation: Spinal cord injury, T12 for 17 years

Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy paper crafting, digital photography, camping, traveling, helping others.

Why did you become a peer mentor? I became a Peer Mentor to give back to those who are newly injured or need extra support like I was given when first injured. I’ve always loved helping others. In 2010, I was given the opportunity to work at the Arizona Spinal Cord Injury Association as their Peer Mentor Coordinator and knew I found my calling. I absolutely LOVE my job and everyone I have helped along the way to learn their “new normal.” I always say- anytime I can see the sun come up and the sun go down, it’s been a good day! We have a second chance at life so roll with it!