Resilience on the Road: José Perales' Journey of Healing and Triumph

In this episode of "Pathways to Healing," we sit down with José Perales, a remarkable individual who has turned his life around after a severe spinal cord injury (SCI) at the young age of 15. José shares his experiences of coping with chronic pain, traveling the world, and finding new meaning through physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. He discusses his involvement with The Perfect Step (TPS) and the Triumph Foundation, where he plays a pivotal role as a community partner and support group leader. This episode is packed with insights on the differences between hospital-based training and TPS’s unique approach, accessibility challenges in public spaces, and his journey to becoming a new driver. Whether you’re navigating life with an SCI or supporting someone who is, José’s story is an inspiring testament to the power of resilience and community.

Key Topics Covered:

• Frequent Travel Experiences with SCI: Tips and tricks for navigating airports, hotels, and cities around the world with an SCI.
• Training at Hospitals vs. TPS: A comparison of the different approaches to physical rehabilitation, and why TPS’s method resonates with José.
• Importance of TPS: How The Perfect Step has impacted José’s physical, emotional, and spiritual healing journey.
• Coping with Chronic Pain: Techniques José uses to manage his pain, including both conventional and alternative methods.
• New Driver Experience: José’s journey to getting his driver’s license, and the steps involved in adapting to life as a driver with an SCI.
• Accessibility in Public Spaces: José’s insights on the accessibility challenges that still exist in public spaces and businesses, and how to navigate them.
• Role as a Healer and Support Group Leader: How José supports others through his work with TPS and the Triumph Foundation, and his practices in private healing.