Life often has a funny way of shifting gears when you least expect it, demanding an entirely new level of resilience and adaptability. For Rosa Noya, that unexpected turn came in the summer of 2024. After a severe medical complication caused her blood platelets to drop dangerously low, Rosa developed a spontaneous hematoma in her spine. The situation was incredibly delicate—the standard surgical solution simply wasn't an option due to the high risk involved. Navigating this immense challenge required tremendous strength, resulting in a T2 Asia-A spinal cord injury that would send Rosa down a completely new, yet ultimately empowering, path.

Faced with a sudden, medically complex diagnosis, Rosa began her rehabilitation journey at Kaiser's Rehab in Vallejo. It was there that her occupational therapist introduced her to NorCal SCI. Since then, Rosa has used our community networks, grants, and events to regain her momentum. Today, Rosa balances her recovery with a busy, impactful career and a deep love for her family.

I asked Rosa a series of questions to learn more about her journey, her professional advocacy, and how her perspective on life has evolved. She graciously shared her story.

The Journey, Recovery, and Finding Resources

How did you find out about NorCal SCI? Have you been able to attend our outings or received any grants?

Rosa: "I learned about NorCal SCI through the Occupational Therapist I worked with at Kaiser’s Rehab in Vallejo . Connecting with others who truly understand this journey has been incredibly valuable. I have been fortunate to receive a grant from NorCal SCI to attend Sci-FIT in Dublin last summer as well as receiving a grant to help pay for costs to make my home equipped with technology that allows me to control the lights in some of my frequently used rooms in my home as well as the ability to easily adjust the temperature in my home using voice controlled Alexa software. The NorCal SCI Newsletter is spectacular as I learned of an outing last year that I attended in Santa Cruz. It was a great outing that allowed me to test out a handcycle as well as mobility device that allowed me to go on different terrains such as the beach."

Getting to Know Rosa

Who are you when you aren't thinking about your SCI?

Rosa: "I'm a transportation professional and currently manage ADA paratransit services for a public transit agency in the Bay Area. I'm passionate about improving mobility and accessibility for people with disabilities and seniors, and I enjoy solving problems that make transportation more reliable and inclusive. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my daughters and husband, learning new things such as caring for plants, and taking strolls through nature settings."

What is a "hidden talent" or a fun fact about you that most people don't know? You mentioned your daughters—tell us a bit more about how this talent plays out at home!

Rosa: "I have a talent for sensing when someone is lying to me. It has proven very helpful when dealing with my daughters.

I think my daughters learned early on that my instinct was pretty good. There was an instance when I found a couple of oranges in the trash that were not eaten. Both of my daughters denied wasting the fruit, but ultimately I could tell my youngest was lying and eventually she came clean.

My youngest denied cutting her hair one time, but it was obvious to me she had taken into her own hands from the look of her bangs.It did not help that earlier in the week she had mentioned that she wanted some bangs.

I also recall a time when my oldest pretended to go out with 'friends' when in reality it was a double date. I remember asking her if she was dating the boy and she lied to me by saying they were just friends. The way she responded told me otherwise. The truth eventually emerged as I tried to convey in follow up conversations that having a boyfriend was ok. I think she thought that her father and I would not have allowed it."

What does a typical "perfect day" look like for you?

Rosa: "A perfect day starts with waking up, feeling healthy and energized. Once up, I have time to stretch and exercise, and then go out and shop at the local farmer’s market. It includes time with family, maybe a nice lunch outside, and ending the day relaxing with a good TV series or spending time with friends. The simple things mean a lot more to me now."

Life After Injury

What is one piece of equipment, app, or "life hack" that has made your daily routine easier or better?

Rosa: "There are two things that come to mind…The first would be my TheraBand’s- these simple stretching devices help to alleviate the pain in my back that I experience on the daily. The second would be Amazon’s Alexa device and the set up I have that allows me to control things like the lights in my room as well as the AC/Heating system in my home. Prior to this I would sometimes have to be dependent on others to adjust the lighting or temperature in my room. Now I too have control over this."

What is a misconception about living with a spinal cord injury that you wish you could clear up for the general public?

Rosa: "People often assume that a spinal cord injury defines what someone can or cannot do. The reality is that everyone with an SCI is different. Many of us continue working, pursuing careers, traveling, raising families, and contributing to our communities. We may do things differently, but we're still the same people with goals, talents, and dreams."

What is something you've done or achieved since your injury that you're particularly proud of?

Rosa: "Returning to work and continuing to lead important projects has been one of my proudest accomplishments. There were many moments when I questioned what my future would look like, but continuing my career and advocating for accessible transportation has reminded me that my purpose didn't change—it simply evolved."

If you could give one piece of advice to your "Day 1" self (the day of your injury), what would it be?

Rosa: "Be patient with yourself."

The "Fun" Stuff

What are you currently binge-watching, reading, or listening to?

Rosa: "I have been enjoying watching the world cup soccer matches. My go-to guilty pleasure is reality TV (Real Housewives, Love Island, etc.)."

If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?

Rosa: "I'd love to visit Italy again. The history, architecture, food, and beautiful scenery have always fascinated me. It would also be interesting to experience how accessible different cities are for travelers with disabilities."

Do you have a mentor or a hero? Can you tell us why they mean so much to you?

Rosa: "Working in the paratransit industry, I have had the privilege of meeting many individuals with disabilities. One person has had a lasting impact on me. Before my spinal cord injury, I met her while collaborating on a work-related project. She has been living with a spinal cord injury for more than 20 years and leads a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving people with disabilities.

Even before my injury, I greatly admired her leadership, resilience, and dedication to improving the lives of others. Since experiencing my own spinal cord injury, I have gained a much deeper appreciation for the challenges that come with navigating life after an SCI. That perspective has only strengthened my admiration for everything she has accomplished."

Is there anything else you'd like to share with the community?

Rosa: "I would like to just thank NorCal SCI for the support you provide to this community. The newsletter, the support groups, the grants, and the links to resources have made my life brighter."

In the Spotlight: Rosa Noya