Ray Pizarro

Date of Injury: September 1993
Type of Injury: Spinal Cord Injury, C5, C6
Current Home: San Pedro, California
Occupation: Co-founder of Pushrim and VP of Sales Swift Medical
Website: www.pushrim.com
“Never give in.”

My name is Ray. I’m a C 5-6 quadriplegic. I suffered a spinal cord injury back in September 1993 at the age of 20. It was a very beautiful summer day. I was spending the day at Newport beach with my brother and a few friends . Later that day I went for a mile run along the coast alone. On my way back I was very hot ,so I ran into the ocean an dove into the water, not knowing that it was the last day I would be able to walk. My life changed forever.

I was lucky to have been admitted to Long Beach Memorial Rehabilitation Hospital with Dr. Ann Vasile in my corner as I worked to gain my independence. Rehab was the biggest challenge of my life. Having great doctors, nurses, and therapists helped me get the most out of my rehabilitation. My mom and brothers were always there for me through the whole ordeal–that helped me so much. After 5 years of depression, anger and a sense of guilt, I began to realize how lucky I really was to be alive. Shortly after that, I was starting to become my old self again. Socializing more, going out to events, and meeting new friends. That alone help me regain my confidence and self esteem. A few years went by and I got to meet a great guy named Joe. He gave me an opportunity to work for his company. After a few months I was hired permanently as a part time employee. That was one of my goals I set for myself. In 2005, i was able to drive again. Another one of my goals had come true. After that day I knew that there was nothing I could not accomplish that I set my mind to.

To make my story short, I now work full time selling catheters for Swift Medical Supply and am married to my beautiful wife. I also purchased my first home in 2008. I’m the co-founder of an online social networking site for friends, family, and victims of spinal cord injury at www.pushrim.com. Being a RIDER has connected me with many other members of the small, but tight-knit spinal cord injury community.

So all these blessing continue to happen. I definitely have a better perspective on life now. I appreciate the simple things in my life like breathing, speaking, nature, friends, and family–it feels so good. I will continue to give back to others going through their traumatic injuries and be able to give hope and inspiration. I am a living example.

This goes out to all the newly injured:

“Take life as a challenge.” “Get out there and inspire someone.” Keep pushing ahead towards the future.”

And remember, “Never give in.”