MEET OUR PEER MENTORS
Looking to Connect with a Peer Mentor?
Are you or a family member looking to connect with one of SCIboston’s trained peer mentors? Many people find it helpful, reassuring, and hopeful to talk to a mentor about adjusting to life after a spinal cord injury. Topics of conversation could include getting back to work or school after a sci, adaptive sports, relationships and intimacy, bladder and bowel management, and more. We match individuals with peer mentors based primarily on gender, injury level, age, interests, and family life, amongst other considerations. SCIboston’s mentors also lead many of our virtual support groups, as well as attend them to provide support to others.
To hear more about the program and connect with someone, please contact SCIboston's Peer Mentor Coordinator, Diane, at: diane@sciboston.org
Hover over each picture for a bio of the mentor. If on a mobile device, click on photo to view bio.
Mentors with Quadriplegia/Tetraplegia
Name: Michaela
Injury Level: C4-5 Incomplete
Year of Injury: 2010
Michaela was injured at the age of 19 as a result of a diving accident. She lives in an apartment with her husband and service dog, Chicory. Michaela received her master’s degree in professional counseling in 2019 and has worked with both children and adults as an outpatient counselor. She has firsthand experience in going back to school and work after an injury, as well as supra-pubic tubes, PCAs, service dogs, and mental health and wellness. Michaela is so kind and friendly, making it easy for others to open up and talk with her.
Name: Brian
Injury Level: C6-7
Year of Injury: 2008
Brian has been an electrician for over 25 years. After sustaining a SCI in an ATV accident, he obtained his Master Electrician License and continues to run his own business. Brian lives with his wife and children and enjoys the independence of driving. He exercises on a regular basis and participates in SCI studies offered by Spaulding Rehab. Brian is an experienced mentor and one of the Chapter’s support group leaders.
Name: Stefan
Injury Level: C7 Incomplete
Year of Injury: 2018
Stefan was 19 at the time of his injury that was sustained from a fall. Post-injury, he went back to school where he currently studies psychology. He enjoys adaptive recreational sports, going to concerts, and hanging out with friends and family. Stefan enjoys being with his dog, who coincidentally also has an SCI. Stefan is incredibly kind and compassionate and you can see that through his social media which highlights his journey. Check out his blog on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stefans_milestones/
Name: Tony
Injury Level: C5 Complete
Year of Injury: 1977
Tony enjoys reading, being outdoors, Scrabble, and Jazz music. He was injured in a surfing accident at 16 years old and went on to obtain a BA in Earth Sciences. Tony is an experienced website builder, computer operator, and has spoken in schools on understanding disabilities for over 42 years. As one of our support group leaders, Tony is knowledgeable, positive, and encouraging.
Name: Heather
Incomplete Quad/Tetraplegic from GBS (Guillain-Barre Syndrome)
Year of Diagnosis: 2014
Heather acquired a severe variant of Guillain-Barre Syndrome just one week after giving birth to her son, which left her paralyzed and on a ventilator. Heather made significant strides in her recovery, allowing her to care for her son, live independently, drive again, and return to her profession. Heather served as the Chapter Coordinator for SCIboston for several years and has since resumed teaching high school students. Heather possesses extensive knowledge of disability resources available in the community and has served on the Massachusetts State Rehabilitation Council. An active parent, Heather is known for her energetic and engaging personality.
Name: Rob
Injury Level: C6 Incomplete
Year of Injury: 2020
Rob’s injury occurred at the age of 66 after a fall from a 20-foot ladder. Rob’s tetraplegic injury level presents as paraplegic and allows him to use a manual wheelchair. Rob is an interesting guy with a zestful curiosity for life. He has a BS in computer science and is very tech-savvy. He has held jobs in the past as a pastry chef, and rough framer, has been a beekeeper, Scout Master, pilot, and more. He’s volunteered his time with Boy Scouts, kids league baseball, National Park’s Pierce Mill in DC, and now most recently as a mentor for SCIboston. Through his own journey after SCI, he has experience with independent living, getting back to work, and mindfulness. Rob is optimistic and a great conversationalist, as well as a genuine listener.
Name: Ethan
Injury Level: C3-5 Incomplete
Year of Injury: 2019
Ethan sustained his injury from a swimming accident when he was 20. Ethan is able to ambulate using a walker and also uses a manual wheelchair. He has limited hand function but is able to use devices and grab and carry items. Ethan’s interests include a love for sports and reading. He is a big Boston sports fan and enjoys reading fantasy and sci-fi books. He is a graduate of BU and also completed a paralegal certification course there. He has experience in getting back to school after an injury as well as with adaptive sports equipment and managing muscle tightness and spasms. Ethan has a kind and compassionate demeanor about him that is sure to make anyone feel heard and understood. He has been in a long-term relationship with his girlfriend, loves hanging out with his dog, and is a big fan of coffee.
Name: Jon
Injury Level: C2-3 Complete, Vent Dependent
Year of Injury: 1998
Jon was injured at the age of 25 as a result of a diving accident. He is a vent dependent quadriplegic and operated his wheelchair by using a sip-and-puff device. Jon is very experienced in directing his own care. He graduated from Fitchburg State University with a bachelor degree in history and is currently working as an Assistant Director of an afterschool program for students in grades 1-12. Jon enjoys trips to the beach, trying new foods, listening to live music, history, and reading.
Name: Justin
Injury Level: C4-6 Complete
Year of Injury: 2007
Justin sustained a spinal cord injury at the age of 20 due to a fall. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management and has valuable experience in spinal cord injury-related topics, including advocacy and adaptive equipment. Justin is well-equipped to offer guidance and suggestions to help others navigate similar challenges. In his free time, he enjoys listening to music, attending concerts, meditating, and playing board games. His combination of personal experience and knowledge makes him a helpful resource for those seeking knowledge in the SCI community.
Name: Maria
Injury Level: C4-5 Complete
Year of Injury:
Name: Josh
Injury Level: C4 Complete
Year of Injury: 2017
Josh was injured at age 23 from a negligent gunshot wound while on active duty in the Army. Josh lives with his amazing wife Kassidy and their two pups. In addition to being a peer mentor, Josh is a support group leader, leading the SCI/D Support Group on Thursday evenings. His humor, lightheartedness, and kindness keep members coming back to the group for more. Josh has experience with AppleiOS, smart home technology, adaptive cycling and gaming, and nonprofit help. In his free time, you can find him making hilarious memes for his Instagram page, creating art, gaming, and taking classes. Check out his Instagram & blog for great SCI content & more:
Name: Jack
Injury Level: C4-7 Complete
Year of Injury: 2016
Jack sustained his injury from a swimming accident at the age of 18. Since his injury, he has focused on going back to college, working out, and gaining back his independence. Jack graduated from UMass Amherst with a degree in Business Administration. He enjoys recreational hobbies such as hand cycling, RC drones, sightseeing, and strolls in nature.
Name: Doug
Injury Level: C4 Incomplete (Ambulatory)
Year of Injury: 2012
Doug sustained his injury from an aggressive epidural abscess. After a year of rehab, he was able to walk without assistance. Now retired after a career in financial services, he volunteers with the GBC and serves on his town Disability and Transportation Committees. Doug enjoys sailing, biking, golf, and reading. He continues to stretch and work out daily to improve strength and balance. Doug is knowledgeable about the challenges of becoming ambulatory post injury and is well-versed in Disability Advocacy and knowledge of 3rd party resources for people with SCI.
Mentors with Paraplegia
Name: Chris
Injury Level: T12
Year of Injury: 2006
Chris is a Boston-based real estate broker and Boston EMS dispatcher. He sustained a T12 spinal cord injury from a gunshot wound in 2006. Since then, he has become a passionate advocate for people with SCIs. He became a SCIBoston Peer Mentor in 2013 and later joined their Board of Directors in 2021. In his free time, he enjoys playing wheelchair basketball, traveling, fishing, and four-wheeling.
Name: Dave
Injury Level: T4 Complete
Year of Injury: 1995
Dave was injured at 23 in a motorcycle accident while he was a senior in college. After his rehab stay, Dave headed back to finish his senior year and earned a BS in Criminal Justice. Dave also went on to earn a J.D. from Northeastern University School of Law. He has competed in eleven wheelchair division marathons and currently enjoys adaptive rowing to stay fit. Dave has a long history of involvement with the GBC, including acting as past Executive Director and is currently the Vice President of the GBC’s Board of Directors. Manages the SCI Model Systems grant and Exercise for Persons with Disabilities Program at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. Dave enjoys classic cars, home projects, and spending time with his wife and daughter.
Name: Joe
Injury Level: T9 Complete
Year of Injury: 2020
Joe lives in Wisconsin and yes, he does own a cheese hat! His injury occurred at the age of 63 due to a genetic disease called cavernous hemangioma. Joe is a retired Respiratory Therapy Manager with a 37-year career behind him. He has been married to his wife Cathy for 40 years and has a daughter, Patricia. For over 50 years he has been an active member of the National Ski Patrol and was still taking injured skiers down the hill at the time of his injury. Joe is active in his community and is a member of his County’s Park and Recreation Foundation in which he serves as Secretary. He enjoys working in the yard, traveling, exercising, watching Packer and Badger football, and using his adaptive mobility devices to get around the neighborhood and roll with his wife when she goes for walks.
Name: Pam
Injury Level: T6 Complete
Year of Injury: 1972
Pam holds a BA in History and worked in textbook publishing. She enjoys reading, history, travel, swimming, sailing, interior design, and cooking. Pam is involved in Disability Advocacy and is knowledgeable in adaptive equipment, returning to school and work, driving, and travel. As a long-time mentor, Pam is empathetic and a good listener.
Name: Mary C
Injury Level: T10 Complete
Year of Injury: 2000
Mary sustained a spinal cord injury in 2000 at the age of 36 due to a motor vehicle accident. She has a daughter, and they enjoy attending Red Sox games and theater shows together. In addition to traveling, fishing, and reading, Mary is actively involved in volunteering within her local community. Before her injury, she worked as a paramedic and firefighter. Mary is knowledgeable about spinal cord injury-related topics such as colostomies, urostomies, and advocacy. Her diverse experiences and dedication to helping others make her a valued member of the community.
Name: Faith
Injury Level: T7 Complete
Year of Injury:
Name: Linda
Injury Level: T5 Complete
Year of Injury: 2004
Linda sustained a spinal cord injury in 2004 at the age of 52, which also resulted in partial facial and eye paralysis due to a motor vehicle accident. She is a dedicated advocate for individuals and organizations focusing on disability and accessibility, with a keen interest in accessible design. Linda enjoys solving puzzles, volunteering, and participating in her church groups. Her education background is in business and finance, and she is knowledgeable in spinal cord injury-related topics such as colostomy, adaptive driving, and supra-pubic tubes. Linda's advocacy work and expertise make her a valuable resource in the disability community.
Name: Matthew
Injury Level: T10 Complete
Year of Injury: 2016
Matthew was injured at the age of 26 from an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in his spinal cord. The AVM led to a stroke leaving him with a T10 complete injury level. Matthew lives with his partner Jessika and their two cats. When Matthew was at Spaulding Rehab Charlestown in 2016, he connected with a mentor, Dave, through SCIboston and found it an invaluable resource. Matthew has personal experience with pain management, advocating for himself effectively, a colostomy bag, baclofen pump, UTI’s, and adapting spaces for hobbies to make them accessible. Matthew works at Spaulding in the SCI Model Systems Research Department as well as a local frame shop in Newburyport, MA. In his free time, he enjoys restoring cars, making things with different mediums, watching YouTube, staying up to date with Magic the Gathering, and painting Warhammer 40K.
Name: Donna
Injury Level: T11-12
Year of Injury: 1977
Donna was injured as a teenager in an auto accident. She attended college later in life and graduated with a BS in Finance. She is retired after a career in finance and is currently very active in her community, including the Woburn Middlesex Lions Club and volunteering at the local senior center. Donna is happily married, enjoys being outdoors, exercising, adaptive sports, swimming, cooking, healthy eating, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Donna has been a long-time mentor for the GBC and is known for her upbeat, positive outlook on life and is very knowledgeable about SCI life.
Name: Sindy
Injury Level: T11 Incomplete
Year of Injury: 2009
Sindy sustained a spinal cord injury at the age of 19 due to a motor vehicle accident. Bilingual in Spanish and English, she holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management with a double concentration in Entrepreneurship and Marketing. Sindy has great knowledge of spinal cord injury-related topics, including returning to school and work, IV filters, pain management, working with personal care attendants (PCA’s), and specifically for lengthening the achilles tendon. In her free time, Sindy enjoys music, dancing, attending concerts, hand-cycling, and strolling along the Charles River. Her experience and drive have helped her navigate her injury while maintaining an active and fulfilling life.
Name: Alan
Injury Level: T5 Complete
Year of Injury: 2016
Alan, a New Hampshire resident, sustained a spinal cord injury at the age of 41 from a motorcycle accident. Following his injury, he returned to school to complete his GED, and discovered a passion for woodworking, crafting furniture, shelves, and more from reclaimed wood. Alan stays very active, working out daily and enjoying outdoor activities such as kayaking, biking trips, fishing, and camping. His dedication to staying active and his creative woodworking pursuits highlight his ability to adapt to life after injury.
Name: Caitlin
Injury Level: T5 Complete
Year of Injury: 1991
Caitlin sustained a spinal cord injury in 1999 at the age of 16 from a motor vehicle accident, which also resulted in a brachial plexus injury affecting the function of her left hand. She lives with her daughter and their dogs, and enjoys traveling, cooking, swimming, and playing board games and cards. Caitlin holds a master’s degree in social work and thrives in her role as a team lead for the USDA Food and Nutrition Service. With experience in spinal cord injury-related topics such as women's issues, returning to work and school after injury, and advocacy, Caitlin is dedicated to supporting others navigating similar challenges.
Name: Jerry
Injury Level: T4 Complete
Year of Injury: 1999
Jerry sustained a spinal cord injury in 1999 due to a motor vehicle accident. As a father of two and a peer mentor for over two decades, Jerry leads by example with his positive attitude and dedication to helping others. He is highly active in the golf community and was one of the first individuals to own a Paramobile—an all-terrain wheelchair designed to assist individuals with disabilities to stand, swing, and navigate the golf course. Jerry's commitment to mentorship and passion for adaptive sports have made him a remarkable figure in the community.
Name: Mark
Injury Level: T10 Complete
Year of Injury:
Family Mentors
Name: Diane
Parents of an Individual with C4 Incomplete Quadriplegia
Year of Son’s Injury: 2011
Diane’s son sustained a spinal cord injury at the age of 29 while on a work assignment in Spain for a bicycle company. From the beginning of his injury, Diane and her husband navigated a complex maze of information, finding great value in connecting with other families who shared similar concerns and experiences. The support they received from others going through the same journey helped them overcome the uncertainty of "what to do next." Now, Diane is dedicated to supporting families in similar situations, helping them find answers and, most importantly, offering a listening ear. Diane leads the Thursday evening Family Support Group, serves as a mentor, and is SCIboston’s Peer Mentor Coordinator.
Name: Abby
Parent of an Individual with T4 Complete Paraplegia
Year of Son’s Injury: 2019
Abby’s first career was as a caseworker on the spinal and head injury floor of a rehabilitation hospital in Louisiana. In 2019, she re-entered the world of spinal cord injury when her 24-year-old son sustained a T4 complete injury in a skiing accident. Inspired, educated, and supported by the SCIboston volunteers she met at Spaulding, Abby decided to give back to the organization. She joined the Board in 2021 and became a family Peer Mentor. Additionally, Abby is active on the disability and pedestrian committees in Brookline, where she and her family have lived for 30 years. She loves nature, board and word games, and logic puzzles. Although her son is very independent, Abby enjoys researching solutions, lending a hand when needed, and cheering him on in his love for adaptive sports.
Name: Mary P
Spouse of an Individual with C4 Incomplete Quadriplegia
Year of Husband’s Injury: 2019
Name: Alyce
Sibling of an Individual with T2 Complete Paraplegia
Year of Brother’s Injury: 2016