Powered by Me

The mission of this page is to provide positive motivation and inspiration to those who have, had, or will face back surgery.

The concept behind Powered by Me is to build a welcoming environment where individuals can inspire and support one another to overcome the odds, cope with and will themselves through pain, as well as to create a wealth of resources to educate others about spinal conditions.

09/26/2024

"How's Ninja?"

That's a question I get asked quite often. Who would've thought that a my red-eared slider would impact so many people throughout her life with me? LONG before the studies of benefits of kids reading to a dog or cat ever began and almost two decades before emotional support animals became a thing, Ninja's presence in my classroom and office benefited a multitude of students and adults alike. When kids AND adults didn't feel comfortable speaking about a topic, they spoke to me through her. She offered a judgement-free safe space, decades before those were implemented. One of her greatest achievements was getting a selective mute student to finally speak and read aloud in class.

She was a trustworthy friend and adored by many. It's safe to say that I share whatever success I had as a classroom teacher and assistant principal to her. It's time to get to writing a book.

So, friends, if you want to know how Ninja is doing, after 23 or so years...she's now eternally resting.

10/16/2023

There is no degree for being a life-long learner, yet we should all strive to be one.

10/08/2021

The We’ve Got Your Back gala is the National Spine Health Foundation’s annual celebration of the power of hope is coming up on Friday, October 22, 2021 at 6:00 PM.

Find all things ‘We’ve Got Your Back Gala’ here! Please consider supporting our fundraiser by purchasing a ticket, sponsorship, or making a gift.

https://spinehealth.org/4th-annual-weve-got-your-back-gala/

09/11/2021

Wow! Honored to represent ARD. So grateful to continue this journey. Come out and enjoy the fun!

Finisher Medals have arrived :-)
The Great Auburn Obstacle Race is on September 26th, 2021.
This is a Fun 5K Trail run with over 20 fun and challenging obstacles.
Everyone will finish!
There is no cut off time!
Register today: https://timeyourrace.com/gaor/regmaintest.asp

09/04/2021

If this doesn’t say, “You better get yourself ready,” then I don’t know what else to think.

08/27/2021

Know someone who is facing or has had a spine fusion and is in need of some advice? As a Spinal Champion, through www.spinehealth.org, I will do my best to offer you words of wisdom, support, or reach out to someone who can provide you with a more clinical response. You are not alone.

Rafael Rodriguez I am a school administrator and former teacher, an athlete, a husband, and a Spinal Champion! My journey to spinal health involved being diagnosed with spondylolisthesis and fractured vertebrae. I was in the midst of training for a triathlon competition when I was forced to walk with a cane for seve...