I wish this spinal injuries podcast had existed years ago

When I sustained my spinal cord injuries (SCI) 36 years ago, I felt very alone. With no internet or social media, I found it difficult to find people with similar injuries or even hear stories of those like me.

I Didn’t Plan on This

Thankfully, this is changing. To help those newly injured, the Spinal Injuries Association has launched a podcast series called I Didn’t Plan on This, with each episode focusing on different people and topics.

Each episode is packed with information and positive stories of how people with SCI managed to overcome barriers, and live lives they never thought they would be able to do when they were first injured. The current episode features Paralympian stars Hannah Cockroft and Nathan Maguire. It’s about sport, but also access.

The Spinal Injuries Association said:

This episode is part of a series we have launched to bring a wider understanding of the impact of spinal cord injury to the public who may have limited knowledge and experience of meeting anyone with a SCI.

It is also hoped that those who are newly injured and struggling to cope with the impact will discover this series and find some hope and a path to support as well as a new community that they thought might never be possible through connecting with Spinal Injuries Association.

As we’ve recently been watching the Winter Paralympics, this episode gives listeners a glimpse into para-sport, and the dedication and training it takes for high-level athletics. But also, how taking part in sport can be beneficial mentally, whether that is with a goal of the Olympics in mind or just to keep fit and meet others.

On this sport episode of the podcast, we are also taken behind the shiny medal ceremonies and red-carpet events, where there is another story. This story is about acceptance, access and equal treatment.

Superstars told to go round the back

For a moment, imagine that you are one of these para-athletes. You’ve not only had to deal with significant disabilities, like spinal injuries, but also the years of training for a new sport have finally paid off, and you have achieved a medal, maybe even a gold medal on the world stage. Just like the able-bodied athletes you are at a high-profile, red-carpet event to celebrate your achievements.

But as you wait in line, fizzing with anticipation, you are told the event isn’t fully wheelchair accessible. So, after being on the red carpet, you’ll have to access the venue via the kitchens. Just imagine how that feels.

This is what happened to Olympian Hannah Cockroft. In the podcast, Hannah reveals more, as she recounts this story and how she felt about it.

Her husband Nathan Maguire also told a story about being at an expensive hotel, but rather than checking in like any other visitor at the front, he was informed that the wheelchair access was through a door at the back of the hotel between the bins.

So, if being a high-profile medal winner, or staying at a costly hotel doesn’t guarantee equal treatment, how can we expect it for anyone else with a disability? That’s one of the questions this episode of the podcast poses.

Breaking stereotypes around spinal injuries

Despite these problems with access, what shines through is how Hannah and her husband have managed to break through the stereotypes of what people with disabilities can do and will show others that they can break through too.

The Spinal Injuries Association has said about this podcast series:

A spinal cord injury changes everything.

Through honest conversations and inspiring personal stories, this series shows what’s possible when determination meets the right support. You’ll hear from individuals who refused to let circumstance define them, proving that life after injury is still full of opportunity, connection and meaning.

All those years ago, when I was newly injured, this podcast would’ve been something that would’ve helped me. That’s because at that time I thought my options were limited and that I wouldn’t be able to do what I had planned for my life.

I also think it would’ve helped those caring for me. So, if you have a SCI or not, these podcasts are a good listen or watch and you can find them here:

I Didn’t Plan on This podcast on Spotify

Watch the podcast on YouTube

Featured image supplied via author