When life takes an unexpected turn, adaptation becomes the ultimate skill. For Saul, a motorcycle accident on Veterans Day in 2022 completely shifted his reality, resulting in a T4 complete spinal cord injury. But a change in direction didn't mean an end to the journey. Today, Saul is balancing a thriving career in tech, navigating the world as an international pool competitor representing the USA, and discovering firsthand how accessible the world can be.

Saul recently shared his responses to some questions we had for him, offering an honest, inspiring look into his life, his triumphs on the pool table, and how he finds light regardless of the path ahead.

Tell us about how your injury happened.

It was Veterans Day in 2022, and I had the day off. I decided to take the motorcycle out that day since it was good weather. On my way back home, I was already driving extra conservatively due to some slippery conditions from fallen rocks on the 130. Eventually, one of these rockslides got me, and although I wasn't going that fast, I ended up hitting a sign on the side of the road.

After laying there for some time, eventually, a car drove by and found me... Phew, I was sure I was going to be coyote food that night! From there, I was airlifted to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, and they performed emergency surgery, since I could barely breathe at that point with all the fluid built up in my lungs. And now... here I am.

How did NorCal SCI become part of your recovery journey?

It was right in the hospital. My occupational therapist ended up giving me a flyer, and that's how I got connected with the community.

You mentioned life shifting gears. What is a major misconception about living with a spinal cord injury that you wish the general public understood?

Mostly that it's a much more complicated injury than meets the eye. It's easy to see that you can't walk, but honestly, while I'll admit life on wheels isn't ideal, it's all the extra tasks, time, and energy it takes to take care of your health that's not very easy to notice from the outside.

Outside of navigating those health routines, who are you when you aren't thinking about your SCI?

I work in tech, so I tend to be in front of a computer a lot. Getting back to work actually helped me mentally in my recovery, since it was something I could do at almost full capacity without extra physical assistance. It was difficult constantly asking for help with taking out the garbage cans, showering, and all the other health-related things that come with SCI. Working gave me a little break from that.

You have also carved out a serious competitive niche for yourself since then. Tell us about your journey with pool.

A few years after my injury, I started playing pool. I liked that it was a sport I could enjoy with able-bodied people and still compete with them as well. Since then, I've actually been able to represent the USA internationally in pool competitions.

Is it true you like to surprise people with your talent?

Continuing on the pool side, I do like traveling outside the Sacramento area where people don't know me, and then pulling out my cue at random bars and surprising people. It's always fun to see their expressions when they realize, wow, this wheelchair player can shoot!

What does a perfect day look like for you when you're back home?

I get up, have a productive and healthy morning, try to build on good habits to have a clear mind, and get through the workday. In the afternoon, I'll go for a little bike ride if the weather permits, and maybe shoot league later in the night. As long as I shoot well, I don't care if I win, lose, or tie. I do get upset at myself when I miss easy shots, but I do love the challenge though!

Is there a specific "life hack" or piece of gear that keeps your daily routine running smoothly?

My heated blanket! My body doesn't regulate temperature that well, and my upper body gets cold super easily. My heated blanket helps me feel sooooo good.

We are actually catching you while you are abroad right now. Where are you writing to us from, and where do you want to head next?

Funny, you actually ask this while I write this from Oslo, Norway. I've always read about how progressive the Scandinavian countries are when it comes to accessibility, and here I am. But I do want to also visit some Southeast Asian countries next. Although I'll probably need to plan a little more for that, since I don't think they're known for being very accessible.

What is fueling your soundtrack or keeping you entertained during those long travel days?

Kinda crazy, but I've been listening to a lot of classical music lately. As much as I still love almost all genres of music, I find that I could listen to classical for hours and it seems to jive well with maintaining my energy levels for long periods of time. Every so often, when I need to get pumped up, I'll bust out my EDM playlist. A recent emerging artist I like listening to is nimino, from London, UK.

Who would you say is your ultimate hero or mentor through all of these chapters?

Hmmm... I don't have a single mentor or hero, but I do have a great support system. Everyone around me does a little to help me out, and I definitely remember all the little things, because they do add up. My friends and family who live close by have supported me and enabled me to live independently after everything I've been through. They all contribute to being my hero.

If you could look back and give one piece of advice to your "Day 1" self right after the accident, what would you say?

Life is going to be different, but it's not over! Remember the importance of relationships, and although it took a turn, it wasn't a turn for the worst. You know how to find light regardless of the direction you choose.

Any parting words for the rest of the NorCal SCI community?

Life may not have gone according to plan, but it has still been full of meaningful experiences, great people, and a few adventures I never saw coming. For that, I’m grateful.

I'd also like to give a shoutout to all the communities out there that were created to help make the lives of people with SCI a little more meaningful and joyful. Thanks to NorCal SCI, The Lionheart Community, my Ohana at High Fives, and all the great people at the Kelly Brush Foundation. Keep doing what you do!

If you, or someone you know, would like to be featured here in the Faces of NorCal SCI, let us know!

In the Spotlight: Saul Alvarez