In the Spotlight: Vandana Vyas
Every story in our community carries a unique blend of resilience, adaptation, and deep personal history. Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with Vandana, a truly extraordinary member of our NorCal SCI family. From a high-powered career balancing two demanding jobs to navigating the life changes following a spinal cord injury, Vandana opened up about her journey, the support system that keeps her moving, and how she finds light in everyday moments.
Thank you for making the time to introduce yourself, Vandana! To start off, could you share a bit about your background and how your injury occurred?
The injury resulted from a car accident during a family trip. I was unconscious when paramedics arrived and was airlifted to the nearest trauma center for two immediate major surgeries. This injury completely changed my life and altered our retirement plans; I had to retire early, and my husband left his job to become my full-time caregiver.
It remains difficult to understand why or how this happened, which often leads to feelings of distress, personality shifts, and disbelief regarding this new reality. Now at 74 years old, I feel like I am aging quickly, and not knowing what the future holds makes me feel nervous and sad.
Thank you for sharing that so openly. Receiving news like that takes so much strength to process. How did you first learn about the specifics of your diagnosis?
My injury occurred on January 9, 2020, when I was 68 years old. I sustained an incomplete T10-L1 spinal cord injury and underwent two major surgeries. On the day of my discharge, a surgeon informed me that I was paraplegic. I did not know what that meant at the time. Because my injury was incomplete, I felt very hopeful that I would eventually return to normal, even if it took time. It was incredibly difficult to process the diagnosis, especially since it had not been discussed with me or my family prior to that day, and I was alone when I received the news.
We know you put an incredible amount of dedication into your physical recovery after that. Can you tell us about the hard work you put into your rehabilitation?
To provide some background, after my injury, I traveled offshore three times and stayed for over two years to receive extended physical therapy six days a week, six hours daily. I made a good recovery and was able to walk with a walker for about 20 minutes. Unfortunately, upon my return, I experienced health issues that prevented me from maintaining those gains. I have since lost that strength and can no longer stand with a walker, and I know my age is a factor.
I worry about the future because I am not independent and do not have domestic help. While I have an adult son and daughter, I do not want to become a burden to them. My husband is my hero and acts as my 24/7 caretaker; however, he was recently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, making it difficult for him to lift me for transfers.
It sounds like you two make an amazing team, and your husband's dedication is truly inspiring. What is the best piece of advice or encouragement you’ve received along the way?
My husband has been an incredible source of emotional support. We got married just an hour after meeting and recently celebrated our 47th wedding anniversary. He constantly lifts my spirits and tells me, "You took care of me for 40 plus years. Now it's my time to take care of you." My friends have also been wonderfully supportive simply by listening and allowing me to vent my frustrations, encouraging me to develop new ways to cope.
What a beautiful partnership you two share! How did you eventually connect with NorCal SCI, and how have our programs been able to support you?
While at SCI-FIT in Dublin, CA, a manager provided me with the contact information for NorCal SCI. I am incredibly grateful to have received a grant that allowed me to complete physical therapy sessions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which helped me regain muscle strength and improve my transfers. I also completed six mental health sessions conducted by Dr. Hayward, who provided wonderful guidance and practical tips. I am naturally introverted and reserved, but these sessions helped me become a bit more outgoing. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to connect with her.
NorCal SCI is a wonderful organization. I read every newsletter and appreciate the helpful information and insights. Through the organization, I was also able to participate in the Smart Home program, though my doorbell camera is unfortunately no longer working.
I have not yet attended any community outings, as I am still adjusting to using a wheelchair, processing the fact that I cannot walk, and keeping to myself at home.
We are so glad those sessions made a meaningful impact for you, and we love having you as a reader! Looking back at your life before the injury, you had an extraordinarily impressive work ethic. Who are you when you aren't thinking about your SCI?
Prior to my injury, I was a dedicated professional who worked two full-time jobs—33 years at a major bank as an Assistant Vice President servicing Fortune 500 clients, and 20 years at a local grocery store. My days typically started at 5:00 a.m. and ended at midnight. In my free time, I enjoyed going for long walks over the weekends and gardening. Since the injury, I have experienced changes in my memory, computer skills, and cognitive processing. Making improvements in my functionality often requires testing my limits and determination.
Working those two demanding roles is incredible! With that sharp professional background, do you have a fun fact or "hidden talent" from those years?
I used to memorize all of my clients' phone numbers and account numbers, as well as the PLU numbers for almost all grocery items.
That is an incredible memory! It shows just how dedicated you’ve always been. Even when dealing with daily physical discomfort, what does a typical day look like for you, and what positive steps are you taking at home?
Since the accident, managing constant muscle tightness and burning sensations has made it difficult to have a perfect day. I experience many sleepless nights and have not yet found an effective medicine or treatment.
I have recently regained the confidence to cook for my family. However, I am still looking for resources or equipment that can better assist me with bed transfers and daily routines, as I currently rely completely on my husband's assistance.
For relaxation, I enjoy reading, meditating, listening to soothing music, cooking for my family, and watching my favorite movies. Due to mobility limitations, I focus on home-based activities such as upper-body exercises with resistance bands and weights.
Reclaiming your space in the kitchen and staying active with your routines is a huge win! If you could instantly gain expertise in any new hobby or field today, what would you choose?
I would love to learn flower arranging and rebuild my computer skills.
Flowers and tech skills sound like wonderful pursuits! Thank you so much for opening your heart and sharing your journey with our community, Vandana.
Thank you again to NorCal SCI and Ms. Sarah for your incredible support.
