#244 The Evolution of Patient Lifts and Mobility Systems with Brian Trewella

In this episode, we’re joined by Brian Trewella, an expert in patient mobilization and mobility solutions for individuals with limited mobility, including those with quadriplegia. With years of experience installing and customizing ceiling lifts, Brian ensures that both patient comfort and caregiver safety are at the forefront of every solution. Before joining the field of mobility technology, he ran his own business, traveling the U.S. to design and implement personalized home mobility systems. Today, Brian helps develop innovative products like Seated Slings, Repositioning Slings, and Slide Sheets, making patient care safer and easier for everyone involved. Having personally worked with Brian to install ceiling lifts for my son both at home and in college, I can vouch for his unwavering commitment to providing life-changing, high-quality solutions that improve the lives of patients and caregivers alike.

Find out more about Brian's company here: https://medcotech.com/

Stay tuned.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#243 The Powerchair Mobilized Wheelchair Revolution with Pat George

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Pat George, founder of Mobility Outdoors. After witnessing the challenges faced by powerchair users—such as inadequate service support for high-cost equipment and limited mobility options—Pat took matters into his own hands. He launched Mobility Outdoors, a company dedicated to revolutionizing mobility solutions with customized, all-terrain motorized wheelchairs.

Pat shares how his team fills critical gaps in the industry, providing 24-hour technician house calls, preventative maintenance, and cutting-edge mobility options designed for outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and adventurers. Whether it's navigating hiking trails, sandy beaches, or snowy terrains, Pat’s innovative designs empower SCI individuals to reclaim their independence and embrace an active lifestyle with special customization of their chairs at any time.  

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the spinal cord injury community for invaluable power chair or motorized wheelchair tips or for those seeking high-performance mobility solutions. Stay tuned.

You can find out more about customized power chairs and motorized chairs at:

https://mobility-outdoors.com/shop-chairs/.  And don't forget to ask them for the 25 Christmas gifts list for powerchair users. 

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#242 Navigating Life After Spinal Cord Injury Through Nature and Healing With Jared Potter

In this episode, we hear from Jared Potter, a software engineer navigating life with paraplegia after a 2023 paragliding accident in Salt Lake City. Jared shares his journey from emergency medical care to rehabilitation at the Craig H. Neilsen Rehab Hospital and the challenges of transitioning home after a spinal cord injury. He offers insights on adapting spaces for accessibility, managing personal care, and finding a "new normal" in the face of life-changing circumstances. Whether you're living with SCI or supporting someone who is, Jared's story provides valuable guidance and hope.

Stay tuned.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#241 Spinal Cord Injury Home Care Best Practices with Rebecca McWalters 

Transitioning home from inpatient rehab is a pivotal and often overwhelming moment for spinal cord injured people and their families. It marks a first chapter of the new normal filled with optimism as well as significant challenges, especially when home modifications are incomplete and the patient and family are no longer in the medical safety net of hospital and facility care. For those with high-level injuries like quadriplegia, securing quality home care becomes one of the most pressing and complex hurdles.

In this episode, Louise talks with Rebecca McWalters, Director of Nursing at Baron Home Group in Atlanta, Georgia. Formerly with the renowned Shepherd Center, Rebecca helped launch Baron’s first home care agency specializing in SCI home care. Drawing on her extensive experience as an SCI nurse, Rebecca shares essential insights into navigating SCI home care, from caregiver training to addressing the daily needs of the person living with SCI. Whether you're a family caregiver, a professional in home care, or inspired to create specialized SCI home care services in your area, this episode is packed with practical tips, information and inspiration for supporting SCI individuals with what you need to know for specialized SCI quality care at home. 

Stay tuned.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#240 When SCI and Aging and Being Discharged from Inpatient SCI Rehab: Options to Consider with Care Manager Ellen Platt

In this episode, we welcome Ellen Platt, founder of The Option Group and a seasoned expert in care management with over 30 years of experience. Ellen specializes in providing personalized guidance to families navigating care options for loved ones with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or aging-related needs.

Ellen shares her insights into the unique challenges faced by individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) as they age. While aging may not be an immediate concern for some listeners, this episode offers valuable information on planning for short-term and long-term living arrangements, especially when family support is unavailable. Ellen explains how a care manager can help develop personalized solutions, even for a short time, and the important factors to consider when adapting to changing needs.

This conversation is full of practical advice and options you may not have thought of before, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating care decisions for themselves or a loved one.

Stay tuned.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#239 The SCI New Normal: Transitioning From Rehab to Home, School, Work and Life with College Athlete Turned Mom: Kelly Brush

In this episode, we dive into Kelly’s inspiring journey as she takes us step by step into the transition home and the beginning of the "New Normal" for herself and her family after a spinal cord injury (SCI). Kelly’s story is a testament to resilience, showing that while the transition home brings unexpected barriers, it also holds new potential for fostering strength, problem-solving, and determination. Her experiences in returning to adaptive sports, founding a life-changing nonprofit, and mothering young children while navigating SCI, showcase the power of living fully, even in the face of adversity.

Kelly shares valuable insights on planning for daily accessibility challenges, parenting with SCI, balancing spontaneity with safety, and staying connected to a supportive community. Join us to hear Kelly’s practical tips, her journey of perseverance, and the ways she inspires those around her.

Stay tuned.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#238 An Extraordinary Story of a Spinal Cord Injury Clinical Trial, a Humanitarian Exception, and Extended InPatient Rehab with Gustavo Gilchrist

In this episode, we hear from Gustavo Gilchrist as he recounts the powerful journey of his son Patricio's spinal cord injury following a diving accident. We explore the details of a clinical trial and step down facility - an often overlooked step in the SCI journey. Gustavo shares the emotional and logistical struggles faced by the family, emphasizing the critical role of support and the race to explore experimental treatments for Pato's recovery. The conversation touches on resilience, social justice, and navigating the complex medical system amid crisis. Gustavo also discusses their time at renowned rehabilitation centers like Shirley Ryan Ability Lab and QLI, underscoring the dedication of medical staff, the importance of family bonds, and the profound mental and emotional aspects of recovery. He reflects on the personal growth and resilience gained through this arduous path, as well as the essential role of education and research in spinal cord injury treatment. 

Stay tuned.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#237 The Critical Role of Bed Sore/Pressure Wound Management with Dr. Quyen Catania

In today's episode, Dr. Quyen Catania, a physical therapist and clinical education coordinator at the International Center for Spinal Cord Injury, dives deep into the critical aspects of wound care for individuals living with paralysis, with a particular focus on skin pressure injuries. Dr. Catania highlights the importance of education for both healthcare providers, patients and their caregivers, stressing the significance of early detection and prevention strategies needed to manage and avoid skin wounds. The conversation explores the different stages of pressure injuries, the role of advanced wound dressings, and the use of proper equipment in inpatient rehabilitation settings. Dr. Catania also touches on the unique challenges of treating spinal cord injury patients, emphasizing the impact of trauma on the healing process and the importance of strong patient-provider relationships in recovery. This episode underscores the need for ongoing education, support, and collaboration in improving wound care outcomes for both patients, healthcare professionals and families and care assistants.

Stay tuned.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#236 Frequent Flyer Miles: Flying Family & Friends to InPatient Rehab and Managing Home Renovations with Ned Insley

Today we explore a common challenge many SCI families face: choosing an out-of-state inpatient rehab facility for their loved one, often far from friends and familiar surroundings. While these Model SCI Rehabilitation centers offer specialized staff and advanced equipment, the crucial role of family and friends in recovery is well-known in the SCI community. Today, we hear from Ned Insley, a close friend who played a pivotal role in Archer’s recovery. In a previously unreleased recording, I discuss with Ned how he organized weekend visits from family and friends during Archer’s inpatient rehab and even supervised home renovations. His efforts highlight the profound impact friends can have on the recovery journey, offering a model that others can replicate. Stay tuned.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.

#235 Navigating the Chaos of Insurance Coverage for Rehab with Edie Perkins

In today’s episode we talk with Edie Perkins, a former elite marathoner and cyclist, who shares her journey of being paralyzed from the chest down in a bike accident and navigating the inpatient rehab experience related to insurance coverage. She discusses the challenges of dealing with insurance, hospital case workers, and the healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and understanding one's rights. Edie highlights the gaps in knowledge and support for spinal cord injury patients and stresses the need for early accurate information, advocacy, appeals education, and knowledge about and access to certified quality SCI facilities. Her experience with insurance appeals and the psychosocial challenges of SCI rehab led her to a career in disability advocacy, supporting others in their recovery.

Blink of an Eye® Podcast is sponsored by the Blink of an Eye® Non-Profit:

 A non-profit created as an essential national resource for Spinal Cord Injured families in the first days and weeks of SCI crisis when life turns upside down and few medical teams in the US have SCI expertise. Blink of an Eye non profit provides a rapid response HEAL Team for ICU bedside support to create an Extraordinary Experience despite the devastation for SCI families. Blink of an Eye non profit also provides a Multidisciplinary Family Navigation & Support Team for SCI families lead by SCI families and SCI medical experts who provide 24/7 support in the first 90 days of crisis and for transitions in the Miracle Year.  Stay tuned for their launch of a National Digital Resource Library, the SCI PLAYBOOK, chocked full of essential SCI information and trauma informed responses for the first hours, days and months after injury--what you need to know/say/do specialized for SCI families, friends and medical staff. To find out more, visit www.blinkofaneye.org.

To find out more about Louise and this podcast visit: www.blinkofaneyepodcast.com,  www.BeingRelational.com

www.BaltimoreMediation.com

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by New Mobility:

For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. Please visit https://newmobility.com/ to learn more

Blink of an Eye is sponsored by Baltimore Mediation:

To find out more about learning relational advocacy and mediation skills for leaders and anyone navigating or facilitating difficult conversations, conflict, or trauma, visit the website www.BaltimoreMediation.com for nationally certified 40 hour courses, including the Enneagram for mediators to know themselves.