NorCal SCI Strengthens Presence in Fresno

NorCal SCI’s Mia Natalia and Arash Bayatmakou with members of the clinical team at Leon S. Peters Rehabilitation Hospital in Fresno, May 21st.

As an organization that serves the entire northern half of the state, NorCal SCI wants to maintain its connection to the largest concentrations of people with SCIs.

We recently had the chance to make an in person visit to Leon S. Peters Rehab Hospital in Fresno, which is a central point serving the many people with SCIs in the Central Valley and surrounding areas.

Executive Director Arash Bayatmakou and Board Member Mia Natalia gave a presentation to the clinical team sharing the many programs and resources NorCal SCI provides to both the newly injured and those living with their SCIs for a long time.

We then went to SCI FIT Fresno (one of five SCI FIT locations in Northern CA), toured the facility with co-owner Steve Nava and learned about some of the unique equipment and opportunities (e.g. a massage therapist) available at this location. Like all SCI FIT locations, the Fresno center was abuzz with energy and it was clear that it serves as a hub for the SCI and disability community.

SCI FIT Fresno Co-owner Steve Nava with Arash

In the evening, we were back at Leon S. Peters Hospital for their monthly in-person support group. The group was a nice mix of clinicians (PT, OT, physiatrist) and local residents living with SCIs and the conversation covered many topics including the upcoming June 7th Roll & Connect NorCal SCI event at SCI FIT Fresno.

It was great to connect with those in the Fresno area and we look forward to our next visit and continued engagement with our friends and partners.