Melanie

Melanie

Age: 36

Location: Alabama

Injury or relation: C4-5 (originally Asia A; now Asia D)

Hobbies/Interests: Writing, reading, painting, swimming, short walks/exercising, bowling, teaching weekly spiritual study/motivational groups, tutoring, and volunteering

Why did you become a peer mentor? Since 2003, I have been a type of face, to the several hospitals and rehab clinics I have frequented. Because I've experienced the good, bad, and horrifying aspects of having an SCI and medical, I feel a kinship and empathy toward those that I come across. Which is why I am constantly stopping to console, encourage, provide information/direction to those with different types of injuries or illnesses while taking part in my own doctor's appointments, therapy visits and even Hospital stays. I love encouraging and advising others like me to find purpose in their chaos and hope in their heartaches.

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