Raymond's recovery story

Raymond was injured in July of 2019 in a motor vehicle accident when he was 21 years old. He was diagnosed with a C4 complete cervical spinal cord injury and lost sight in one eye. Initially, Raymond was dependent on a ventilator to help him breathe and over time, he was able to wean off the ventilator in the Respiratory Rehabilitation Unit. After transitioning to the Acute Rehabilitation Unit, Raymond and his family worked on many skills including how to transfer and operate his manual and power wheelchairs. Raymond was able to return home in early October where he continued participating in multiple therapies.

Since 2019, Raymond’s recovery journey has been intense. He weathered the pandemic; returned to school, kayaking, and driving; became a University Innovation Fellow; lived in a dorm; served as student body president; graduated from college; and entered graduate school. He also joined the Board of Directors of the San Mateo Events Center and serves on an Atherton committee for pedestrian safety. He may not be the one tending his livestock right now, but his passion remains and guides his future endeavors.

Raymond and his family are thankful for the care and training they received at SCVMC and all the networking they still participate in. They are resourceful and recognize how essential the support of family and friends has been to keep their momentum going.

The whole family subscribes to the motto: Don’t tell me what I can’t do; tell me how I get what I want!