On this episode of Pathways to Healing our hosts, Cody Norman and Logan Frye, sit down with Clayton Roberts, we had the privilege of hearing about his incredible journey as a professional dirt bike rider who, in March 2024, experienced a spinal cord injury (SCI) at the T11/T12 level. Clayton took us through the moments leading up to his injury while competing in the AMA National Hare and Hound Championship in Murphy, Idaho, and the whirlwind transition from Idaho to Casa Colina for rehabilitation.

One of the key takeaways from this episode was Clayton’s rapid return to independence, a process he outlined step-by-step. His determination, coupled with adaptive training strategies and techniques, has allowed him to regain not just physical strength but also mental resilience. Clayton spoke in detail about the creative exercises that kept him motivated and the profound impact physical activity had on his recovery, both before and after his injury.

Clayton also shared how his support system—family, friends, and the broader SCI community—played a vital role in his recovery. His perspective on the importance of community was especially poignant, as he emphasized how essential it is to surround yourself with people who lift you up during challenging times. Additionally, we delved into how his athlete's mindset—focused on pushing limits and striving for continuous improvement—helped him maintain a positive attitude throughout his rehabilitation.

Some standout moments included:

Lastly, Clayton’s advice on reinventing life after injury resonated deeply with listeners. He highlighted the importance of mindset, support, and finding new ways to engage with life, offering a glimpse of hope and practical steps for others navigating similar challenges.