In this inspiring episode, Shawn Simmons opens up about his journey of perseverance after a below-the-knee amputation. Through determination and rehab, he discovered wheelchair basketball — first playing with the ParaSports Spurs and now competing at the collegiate level with the University of Texas at Arlington. His dedication has also led to an invitation to the DK3 Wheelchair Basketball Invitational. Shawn shares heartfelt shoutouts to those who supported him along the way, reflecting on the importance of community and resilience. A proud father of three, he also talks about the legacy of perseverance in his family, including his grandmother who earned her bachelor’s degree at the age of 83. Shawn’s story is a testament to strength, faith, and never giving up.

From the softball field to the stables, Victoria’s journey is one of grit, grace, and growth. In this episode of The Wheelchair Roundtable, Victoria shares her powerful story—from the day her life changed with a diagnosis of Cauda Equina Syndrome, to the long road of recovery that followed. Before her injury, she was fiercely competitive on the softball field. Today, she holds a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is setting her sights on building an Equine-Assisted Learning program to help others heal and grow.

Victoria opens up about the physical and emotional challenges, the role of horses in her future plans, and the unwavering love and support she’s received from her family and boyfriend. Her story is a reminder that while life can change in an instant, purpose and passion can still carry you forward.

In this episode of The Wheelchair Roundtable, we pull up a seat with Mario — a C5/C6 incomplete spinal cord injury survivor whose story is a blueprint of resilience. After facing the unthinkable, Mario didn’t stop at survival. He went back to school, pushed through the barriers, and pursued a master’s degree in civil engineering.

Through grit, determination, and an unshakable sense of purpose, Mario shows us that rebuilding your life is possible — even when the foundation feels like it’s crumbled. His story is a testament to the power of education, community, and self-belief in the face of adversity.

So whether you’re freshly injured, working in rehab, or simply need a reminder that setbacks don’t define you — this episode is for you.

Let’s roll into Mario’s story.