On this episode of The Wheelchair Roundtable, we’re joined by Mason Branstrator —an athlete, creator, and powerful voice for resilience whose life changed in an instant, but whose purpose only grew stronger.

At just 17 years old, Mason sustained a spinal cord injury in a skiing accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. But what followed wasn’t the end of his story — it was the beginning of a new one. From intensive rehab to rediscovering independence through his wheelchair, Mason leaned into challenge, adaptation, and ultimately, transformation.

Today, Mason is not only thriving — he’s pushing limits. From adaptive sports like hand cycling and surfing to completing a marathon in a racing chair, he’s redefining what’s possible and showing the world that a wheelchair is not a limitation, but a gateway to freedom.

Through his growing social media presence, Mason shares the real, unfiltered moments of life with a disability — from daily routines to outdoor adventures — inspiring hundreds of thousands of people across the globe. His mission is simple but powerful: help others see possibility, no matter their circumstances. Mason’s story isn’t just about overcoming — it’s about evolving, adapting, and leading from the front.

link.me/mason_branstrator

mason@kannco.com

IG: Mason_branstrator

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Today’s episode is a powerful reminder of what resilience truly looks like—and we’re joined by guest host S.J. Cimijotti, DPT, bringing clinical insight and perspective to the conversation.

At just 10 years old, Peter Berry’s life was forever changed by a tragic car accident that left him and his brother paralyzed, injured his sister, and took the lives of both of his parents. It’s the kind of moment that could define a life—but for Peter, it became the beginning of a new one.

Now 24, Peter is a professional wheelchair basketball player competing in Germany, driven by a relentless mindset and a clear goal: representing Team USA at the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.

In this episode, we dive into Peter’s journey through recovery, the role of family and support systems, and how discovering wheelchair basketball gave him not just purpose—but direction. Alongside S.J.’s expertise in rehabilitation, we explore the physical and mental resilience required to rebuild after trauma, the discipline behind competing at an elite level, and what it truly means to keep moving forward.

This isn’t just a story about sports—it’s about perspective, growth, and the decision to rise, no matter the circumstances.

Let’s get into it.

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In this episode, we sit down with Esmer Perez LBSW, MSW, CART, a dedicated case manager at a Health Rehabilitation Hospital, to break down what really happens after a life-changing injury or illness.

Esmer gives us an inside look at the critical role of a case manager—often acting as the “in-house attorney”—guiding patients and families through one of the most complex and emotional healthcare journeys. From the moment a patient is admitted, she helps coordinate care, navigate funding sources, and ensure every piece of the recovery plan is aligned.

We dive into the importance of therapy in regaining independence and how physicians, therapists, and caregivers work together behind the scenes to support each patient’s progress. Esmer also sheds light on the difficult realities of healthcare—what happens when a patient doesn’t have insurance, and how funding directly impacts the equipment and services that can be provided.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone wanting a clear, honest look at the rehab process and the road to recovery after a life-altering event.