Important Note for Our Listeners: Coffee and Cuddles is not undergoing a permanent changeover! This episode is a temporary departure to check in with Anna Marie (aka Cuddles) and give an update on what she is currently navigating, as well as introduce her new personal journey. Don't worry—Coffee and Cuddles will return soon! 

Welcome to Nice Wheels, Babe: Anna Marie’s SCI Journey (Flagship Episode)

In this special episode, Anna Marie (Cuddles) shares the backstory behind a major new chapter in her life. After experiencing severe back pain that was initially misdiagnosed as back spasms, a serious blood infection attacked her spine and resulted in a complete spinal cord injury (T8/T7). 

Anna Marie opens up about her time in the hospital, finding hope through her neurosurgeon Dr. Hansen Bowe, her current physical therapy at Orange Healthcare and Wellness Center, and what learning a "new normal" looks like. This episode is an honest, vulnerable conversation about processing life-altering medical challenges without losing hope. 

Key Highlights & Topics Covered:

• The Diagnosis: How severe back pain led to the discovery of a blood infection attacking her spine. 
• Medical Journey: Working with neurosurgeon Dr. Hansen Bowe at UCI Orange and finding a team that maintains hope. 
• Rehabilitation & Therapy: Learning trunk control, arm strength, and finding a new center of gravity with her PT team. 
• Mental Health & Emotional Outlets: Processing anger, letting go of platitudes, and allowing yourself the space to cry and feel. 
• Living with Non-Traumatic Paraplegia: Navigating independence, accepting help, and focusing on what you can do yet. 

Episode Quote:

"Anything in life that you wanna do that you're not able to do... it's not something you'll never be able to do. It's something that you can't do yet." — Anna Marie 

Join the Community:

Anna Marie wants to hear from you! If you or a loved one are navigating a spinal cord injury, or if you have questions about her journey, leave a comment or reach out. Be sure to follow along for future updates! 

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