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UPCOMING EVENTS

Personalized Blood Flow Restriction Rehabilitation (PBFR) Certification Course
Sat, Oct 10
Rancho Los Amigos OPB Auditorium
Register

Rancho Works Cafe Success Spotlight: Reggie began his journey at the Rancho Works Café & Gift Shop, where he worked for about a year and a half. During that time, he became a valued member of the team, known for his infectious smile, positive attitude, and the warmth he brought to the café each day. Reggie enjoyed welcoming customers, learning cashiering skills, stocking shelves, and building meaningful connections with people from all walks of life.

In 2024, Reggie completed his training with Rancho Works and transitioned to a new position at the Rancho Los Amigos Wellness Center. He continues to bring the same enthusiasm and dedication to his role, using the skills he developed through the program to succeed in community employment.

Reflecting on his experience, Reggie shared that working at the Rancho Works Café helped him realize that there is life after injury and that he still has much to contribute. He is grateful for the friendships he built and hopes his journey will inspire others to believe in their own potential.

We are incredibly proud of Reggie and his continued success!

To support the program and make more stories like this possible, make a donation to the Rancho Works Cafe Program at the link in our bio!

Rancho Works Cafe Success Spotlight: Reggie began his journey at the Rancho Works Café & Gift Shop, where he worked for about a year and a half. During that time, he became a valued member of the team, known for his infectious smile, positive attitude, and the warmth he brought to the café each day. Reggie enjoyed welcoming customers, learning cashiering skills, stocking shelves, and building meaningful connections with people from all walks of life.

In 2024, Reggie completed his training with Rancho Works and transitioned to a new position at the Rancho Los Amigos Wellness Center. He continues to bring the same enthusiasm and dedication to his role, using the skills he developed through the program to succeed in community employment.

Reflecting on his experience, Reggie shared that working at the Rancho Works Café helped him realize that there is life after injury and that he still has much to contribute. He is grateful for the friendships he built and hopes his journey will inspire others to believe in their own potential.

We are incredibly proud of Reggie and his continued success!

To support the program and make more stories like this possible, make a donation to the Rancho Works Cafe Program at the link in our bio!

Today we’re celebrating Natasha, a proud graduate of the Rancho Works Café program 🎓! This is her story: “Working at Rancho has allowed me to not define myself by my disability. I have gained new confidence in myself by discovering abilities that allow me to be more independent. While working at the Rancho Works Café, I am regaining more mobility in my left arm and developing patience with my memory. Working alongside an amazing crew with the rehab team has allowed me to improve my communication skills and understand the expectations in a workplace. I cherish my time working at the Rancho Works Café and plan to take what I’ve learned to continue my education to become an occupational therapy assistant. I want to inspire others with the knowledge and skills I’ve received at Rancho.”

Through her time in the program, she’s built confidence, independence, and real-world skills that are shaping her future. 🌟

Today we’re celebrating Natasha, a proud graduate of the Rancho Works Café program 🎓! This is her story: “Working at Rancho has allowed me to not define myself by my disability. I have gained new confidence in myself by discovering abilities that allow me to be more independent. While working at the Rancho Works Café, I am regaining more mobility in my left arm and developing patience with my memory. Working alongside an amazing crew with the rehab team has allowed me to improve my communication skills and understand the expectations in a workplace. I cherish my time working at the Rancho Works Café and plan to take what I’ve learned to continue my education to become an occupational therapy assistant. I want to inspire others with the knowledge and skills I’ve received at Rancho.”

Through her time in the program, she’s built confidence, independence, and real-world skills that are shaping her future. 🌟

This #otmonth support a cause that’s been changing lives for a century! 💫 Help us raise $5,000 to continue empowering independence through the Rancho Works Café Program (link in bio to donate) or spread the word by sharing this post!

#OccupationalTherapy
#OccupationalTherapyMonth

This #otmonth support a cause that’s been changing lives for a century! 💫 Help us raise $5,000 to continue empowering independence through the Rancho Works Café Program (link in bio to donate) or spread the word by sharing this post!

#OccupationalTherapy
#OccupationalTherapyMonth

In honor of #OccupationalTherapyMonth , we’re celebrating 100 years of impact! For a century, Rancho Occupational Therapy has harnessed the power of everyday occupations to support healing, restore independence, and transform lives after illness or injury. 💙 This year, we’re turning that milestone into momentum.

We’re aiming to raise $5,000 by April 30 to support the Rancho Works Café Program, where participants gain real-world experience, build occupational skills, and prepare for the workforce.

For 100 years, we’ve believed in changing lives one job at a time.
Now, we need your help to carry that legacy into the next 100.

Every dollar counts. Every donor matters! See link in bio to support and donate!

In honor of #OccupationalTherapyMonth , we’re celebrating 100 years of impact! For a century, Rancho Occupational Therapy has harnessed the power of everyday occupations to support healing, restore independence, and transform lives after illness or injury. 💙 This year, we’re turning that milestone into momentum.

We’re aiming to raise $5,000 by April 30 to support the Rancho Works Café Program, where participants gain real-world experience, build occupational skills, and prepare for the workforce.

For 100 years, we’ve believed in changing lives one job at a time.
Now, we need your help to carry that legacy into the next 100.

Every dollar counts. Every donor matters! See link in bio to support and donate!

Highlights from the recent La Buena Vida potluck, full of community, fun, and lasting memories 💙

Highlights from the recent La Buena Vida potluck, full of community, fun, and lasting memories 💙

In Memory of Dr. V. Reggie Edgerton💙Dr. V. Reggie Edgerton devoted his life to understanding and unlocking the potential of the human nervous system. A true pioneer in spinal cord injury research, his groundbreaking discoveries on neuroplasticity and neuromodulation redefined what was once thought impossible — that the injured spinal cord could recover function and relearn movement.

Even in his later years, Reggie continued to push the field forward through his work at Rancho Research Institute. There, he helped lead ongoing efforts in spinal neuromodulation with activity-dependent plasticity to recover function after paralysis, and he remained engaged in translational work exploring locomotor recovery using transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation.

As a professor and mentor at UCLA, Reggie inspired generations of scientists, engineers, and clinicians to challenge assumptions and pursue solutions with both scientific rigor and human compassion. His collaborative spirit extended far beyond the lab, touching the lives of countless individuals living with paralysis who found new hope through his research.
Reggie combined deep curiosity with boundless empathy. His legacy lives in the science he advanced, the colleagues and students he mentored, and the lives rekindled by his vision of recovery. Those who worked beside him will remember not only his intellect and energy, but his kindness, humility, and unwavering belief in human potential.

Dr. Edgerton’s work continues through the many he inspired — a lasting reminder that perseverance, innovation, and compassion can change what we believe is possible.

In Memory of Dr. V. Reggie Edgerton💙Dr. V. Reggie Edgerton devoted his life to understanding and unlocking the potential of the human nervous system. A true pioneer in spinal cord injury research, his groundbreaking discoveries on neuroplasticity and neuromodulation redefined what was once thought impossible — that the injured spinal cord could recover function and relearn movement.

Even in his later years, Reggie continued to push the field forward through his work at Rancho Research Institute. There, he helped lead ongoing efforts in spinal neuromodulation with activity-dependent plasticity to recover function after paralysis, and he remained engaged in translational work exploring locomotor recovery using transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation.

As a professor and mentor at UCLA, Reggie inspired generations of scientists, engineers, and clinicians to challenge assumptions and pursue solutions with both scientific rigor and human compassion. His collaborative spirit extended far beyond the lab, touching the lives of countless individuals living with paralysis who found new hope through his research.
Reggie combined deep curiosity with boundless empathy. His legacy lives in the science he advanced, the colleagues and students he mentored, and the lives rekindled by his vision of recovery. Those who worked beside him will remember not only his intellect and energy, but his kindness, humility, and unwavering belief in human potential.

Dr. Edgerton’s work continues through the many he inspired — a lasting reminder that perseverance, innovation, and compassion can change what we believe is possible.

La Buena Vida is where healing turns into connection and community! 💙

Virginia Tomala, a long-time attendee, emphasized both health improvement and morale: “My health has improved by nearly 95%… this class has helped me maintain my morale and feel like I am part of a supportive community.”

Through movement, support, and shared experiences, participants are improving their health while rediscovering a sense of belonging. What begins as a class becomes a space people look forward to each week.

Learn more at: https://ranchomemoryclinic.org/programs/la-buena-vida/

La Buena Vida is where healing turns into connection and community! 💙

Virginia Tomala, a long-time attendee, emphasized both health improvement and morale: “My health has improved by nearly 95%… this class has helped me maintain my morale and feel like I am part of a supportive community.”

Through movement, support, and shared experiences, participants are improving their health while rediscovering a sense of belonging. What begins as a class becomes a space people look forward to each week.

Learn more at: https://ranchomemoryclinic.org/programs/la-buena-vida/

From Isolation to Community 💙✨ Healthy aging is not just about staying active, it is about feeling seen, supported, and part of something bigger.

What begins as a wellness class by La Buena Vida quickly becomes something more. A space filled with movement, laughter, shared stories, and meaningful connection.

Learn more about La Buena Vida in our latest blog!

From Isolation to Community 💙✨ Healthy aging is not just about staying active, it is about feeling seen, supported, and part of something bigger.

What begins as a wellness class by La Buena Vida quickly becomes something more. A space filled with movement, laughter, shared stories, and meaningful connection.

Learn more about La Buena Vida in our latest blog!

In honor of Brain Injury Awareness Month, we’re spotlighting a powerful participant quote from our La Buena Vida program 💙

After experiencing two strokes, one of our participants shared how this program became a meaningful part of their healing journey, offering not just support, but renewed confidence, connection, and hope.

This is just one of many stories that reflect the real impact of La Buena Vida!

To learn more, check out our latest blog at ranchoresearch.org/blog

and see how you can help keep accessible wellness programs like this available for older adults in the Latino community.

In honor of Brain Injury Awareness Month, we’re spotlighting a powerful participant quote from our La Buena Vida program 💙

After experiencing two strokes, one of our participants shared how this program became a meaningful part of their healing journey, offering not just support, but renewed confidence, connection, and hope.

This is just one of many stories that reflect the real impact of La Buena Vida!

To learn more, check out our latest blog at ranchoresearch.org/blog

and see how you can help keep accessible wellness programs like this available for older adults in the Latino community.

Wishing everyone a lucky and fun filled holiday! 🍀🌟🌈

Wishing everyone a lucky and fun filled holiday! 🍀🌟🌈

We are excited to invite you to our next national virtual webinar in our “Aging with SCI series” titled Rolling Forward: Aging Well with SCI — Technology, Mobility, and Independence!

As people with spinal cord injury age, staying independent takes planning. Everyday smart technology and the right wheelchair setup can both make a big difference. This webinar will show how using both smart technology and the right mobility equipment can make it easier to stay safe, independent, and comfortable at home as you age.

Register in advance at the link in bio or at the link here: https://miami.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3QNnB9HlRvuO2ucPUR4Bqw

We are excited to invite you to our next national virtual webinar in our “Aging with SCI series” titled Rolling Forward: Aging Well with SCI — Technology, Mobility, and Independence!

As people with spinal cord injury age, staying independent takes planning. Everyday smart technology and the right wheelchair setup can both make a big difference. This webinar will show how using both smart technology and the right mobility equipment can make it easier to stay safe, independent, and comfortable at home as you age.

Register in advance at the link in bio or at the link here: https://miami.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3QNnB9HlRvuO2ucPUR4Bqw

🧠 March Is #NationalBrainInjuryAwarenessMonth! A time to raise awareness about the challenges individuals face after brain injury and to highlight the importance of long-term support, recovery resources, and community connection.

Each year, millions of people in the United States live with the effects of traumatic brain injury, stroke, or other neurological conditions. While medical care plays a critical role in recovery, healing and wellbeing often extend far beyond the hospital or rehabilitation setting. Ongoing support, movement, cognitive engagement, and connection with others can make a meaningful difference in long-term quality of life.

At the Don Knabe Wellness Center, located on the campus of Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, wellness programs are designed to support individuals at many stages of their health and recovery journey. These programs help participants stay active, maintain cognitive engagement, and build community with others who understand similar experiences.

One of these opportunities is Virtual Brains in Motion (detailed below), a supportive wellness-focused group designed to encourage both movement and mental engagement in a welcoming, accessible environment.

Virtual support groups like these help extend wellness beyond the clinic, offering participants a space to stay engaged and connected from wherever they are.

During Brain Injury Awareness Month, we recognize the strength and resilience of individuals living with brain injury and the communities that support them. Programs like this help ensure that recovery, wellness, and connection continue long after clinical care ends!

🧠 March Is #NationalBrainInjuryAwarenessMonth! A time to raise awareness about the challenges individuals face after brain injury and to highlight the importance of long-term support, recovery resources, and community connection.

Each year, millions of people in the United States live with the effects of traumatic brain injury, stroke, or other neurological conditions. While medical care plays a critical role in recovery, healing and wellbeing often extend far beyond the hospital or rehabilitation setting. Ongoing support, movement, cognitive engagement, and connection with others can make a meaningful difference in long-term quality of life.

At the Don Knabe Wellness Center, located on the campus of Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, wellness programs are designed to support individuals at many stages of their health and recovery journey. These programs help participants stay active, maintain cognitive engagement, and build community with others who understand similar experiences.

One of these opportunities is Virtual Brains in Motion (detailed below), a supportive wellness-focused group designed to encourage both movement and mental engagement in a welcoming, accessible environment.

Virtual support groups like these help extend wellness beyond the clinic, offering participants a space to stay engaged and connected from wherever they are.

During Brain Injury Awareness Month, we recognize the strength and resilience of individuals living with brain injury and the communities that support them. Programs like this help ensure that recovery, wellness, and connection continue long after clinical care ends!

Through the virtual support groups offered by the Don Knabe Wellness Center, individuals living with spinal cord injury, stroke, acquired brain injury, and others navigating recovery can access connection, peer support, and wellness programming from anywhere.

Swipe to view the current support group schedule or read more about this initiative and the benefits in our latest blog at ranchoresearch.org/blog

Through the virtual support groups offered by the Don Knabe Wellness Center, individuals living with spinal cord injury, stroke, acquired brain injury, and others navigating recovery can access connection, peer support, and wellness programming from anywhere.

Swipe to view the current support group schedule or read more about this initiative and the benefits in our latest blog at ranchoresearch.org/blog

Black History Month Celebration At Rancho Research Institute, Inc. (RRI) ! Grateful for the moments that bring us together and remind us of the importance of honoring history and each other! ❤️

Black History Month Celebration At Rancho Research Institute, Inc. (RRI) ! Grateful for the moments that bring us together and remind us of the importance of honoring history and each other! ❤️

In our latest blog we explore how work rehab bridges the gap between clinical recovery and real-world participation, and how programs like the Rancho Works Café & Gift Shop are helping individuals rebuild skills, identity, and self-worth.

You’ll also read another powerful patient story like Michelle’s highlighting the journey from stroke recovery to competitive employment, a meaningful reminder of what’s possible with the right support, opportunity, and determination.

Work rehabilitation isn’t the end of recovery. It’s a critical step toward dignity, independence, and renewed possibility.

Read the full story now at ranchoresearch.org/blog. 💙

In our latest blog we explore how work rehab bridges the gap between clinical recovery and real-world participation, and how programs like the Rancho Works Café & Gift Shop are helping individuals rebuild skills, identity, and self-worth.

You’ll also read another powerful patient story like Michelle’s highlighting the journey from stroke recovery to competitive employment, a meaningful reminder of what’s possible with the right support, opportunity, and determination.

Work rehabilitation isn’t the end of recovery. It’s a critical step toward dignity, independence, and renewed possibility.

Read the full story now at ranchoresearch.org/blog. 💙

♥️ We’re celebrating National Therapeutic Recreation Month by spotlighting the incredible projects and transformative programs led by Rancho’s Recreational Therapy team!

Discover the programs changing lives in our latest blog, now live at ranchoresearch.org/blog 💫

♥️ We’re celebrating National Therapeutic Recreation Month by spotlighting the incredible projects and transformative programs led by Rancho’s Recreational Therapy team!

Discover the programs changing lives in our latest blog, now live at ranchoresearch.org/blog 💫

In honor of National Therapeutic Recreation Therapy Month, we are spotlighting the incredible Recreational Therapy team at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center and the meaningful work they do every day to support healing beyond physical recovery.

Meet Zoey, one of Rancho’s beloved therapy animals and a proud member of the Recreational Therapy team. This gorgeous bird (and certified Swiftie) helps patients shake off stress, spark joy, and create moments of calm and connection during their rehabilitation journey.

Animal-assisted therapy is just one of the many programs led by Rancho’s Recreational Therapy team that supports emotional well-being, motivation, and overall quality of life for patients. 💙🦜✨

In honor of National Therapeutic Recreation Therapy Month, we are spotlighting the incredible Recreational Therapy team at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center and the meaningful work they do every day to support healing beyond physical recovery.

Meet Zoey, one of Rancho’s beloved therapy animals and a proud member of the Recreational Therapy team. This gorgeous bird (and certified Swiftie) helps patients shake off stress, spark joy, and create moments of calm and connection during their rehabilitation journey.

Animal-assisted therapy is just one of the many programs led by Rancho’s Recreational Therapy team that supports emotional well-being, motivation, and overall quality of life for patients. 💙🦜✨

When people feel supported, movement becomes more than exercise. It becomes a source of joy, connection, and long‑term health. 💙

Check out our latest blog at [ ranchoresearch.org/blog ] to learn about two highly impactful programs making physical activity accessible, impactful, and welcoming to all both in our local community and online.

When people feel supported, movement becomes more than exercise. It becomes a source of joy, connection, and long‑term health. 💙

Check out our latest blog at [ ranchoresearch.org/blog ] to learn about two highly impactful programs making physical activity accessible, impactful, and welcoming to all both in our local community and online.

Check out our latest blog on “The Importance and Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise for People with Disabilities”, written by our CEO Philip Requejo, PhD!

This article is offers insights on the broader impact of movement, the importance of inclusive fitness centers, and links to in-person and online wellness communities available at Rancho.

Access the blog at www.renchoresearch.org/blog

Check out our latest blog on “The Importance and Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise for People with Disabilities”, written by our CEO Philip Requejo, PhD!

This article is offers insights on the broader impact of movement, the importance of inclusive fitness centers, and links to in-person and online wellness communities available at Rancho.

Access the blog at www.renchoresearch.org/blog

Yesterday, the Department of Physical Therapy at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center had the privilege of hosting the 21st Annual G. Maureen Rodgers Visions for Physical Therapy Lecture.

This annual lecture serves as a national platform for leaders in physical therapy to challenge our profession to think critically about the future of practice and its evolving role within the 21st-century healthcare system.

We were especially proud to hear from our very own Dr. Lilli Thompson, PT, DPT, NCS Emeritus, who delivered a powerful and timely lecture titled “Meeting the Moment with Moral Clarity: Navigating Challenging Times with Purpose.” Her insights sparked meaningful reflection and rich dialogue among colleagues and students alike.

The G. Maureen Rodgers Lecture continues to inspire thoughtful conversations about our professional responsibilities, ethical leadership, and the future of healthcare. Grateful to everyone who joined us in engaging in this important and energizing discussion!

Yesterday, the Department of Physical Therapy at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center had the privilege of hosting the 21st Annual G. Maureen Rodgers Visions for Physical Therapy Lecture.

This annual lecture serves as a national platform for leaders in physical therapy to challenge our profession to think critically about the future of practice and its evolving role within the 21st-century healthcare system.

We were especially proud to hear from our very own Dr. Lilli Thompson, PT, DPT, NCS Emeritus, who delivered a powerful and timely lecture titled “Meeting the Moment with Moral Clarity: Navigating Challenging Times with Purpose.” Her insights sparked meaningful reflection and rich dialogue among colleagues and students alike.

The G. Maureen Rodgers Lecture continues to inspire thoughtful conversations about our professional responsibilities, ethical leadership, and the future of healthcare. Grateful to everyone who joined us in engaging in this important and energizing discussion!

Today we honor Martin Luther King Jr. and the enduring impact of his work and legacy. The quote shared above is a great reminder of why service, compassion, and community remain at the heart of everything we do. 💙

In observance of the holiday, our office will be closed today as we reflect on Dr. King’s profound commitment to service, justice, and compassion.

Today we honor Martin Luther King Jr. and the enduring impact of his work and legacy. The quote shared above is a great reminder of why service, compassion, and community remain at the heart of everything we do. 💙

In observance of the holiday, our office will be closed today as we reflect on Dr. King’s profound commitment to service, justice, and compassion.

🌟 New Years Message to our community from our CEO Philip Requejo 🌟

🌟 New Years Message to our community from our CEO Philip Requejo 🌟

Wishing everyone a happy new year and happy holiday season!! 💙💫 See you all in the new year with many exciting times ahead!

Wishing everyone a happy new year and happy holiday season!! 💙💫 See you all in the new year with many exciting times ahead!

Grateful for the opportunity to host the 2025 Neurogenic Bladder Research Group (NBRG) Meeting held at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center in California! 🙌🧠

This year’s meeting brought together urologists, rehabilitation physicians, therapists, engineers, researchers, and—critically—patients, all united around a shared goal: advancing care and quality of life for individuals living with neurogenic bladder and neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction
NBRG Program!

The day featured a strong mix of keynotes, panels, and multidisciplinary dialogue, including:
Insightful keynote presentations on extragenital sacral anterior root stimulation, next-generation sacral nerve stimulation, and the future of genitourinary neurorestoration

A point-counterpoint discussion on neurostimulation vs. neuromodulation, highlighting both scientific advances and real-world clinical considerations

Emerging frontiers in neuroimaging (fUSI, fMRI, electrophysiology) and how these tools can inform bladder control and rehabilitation strategies
Innovations in bladder-directed therapies, including engineered botulinum toxins, novel catheter coatings, and vaccine-based approaches to preventing UTIs

Meaningful panels centered on patient priorities and the realities of innovating within a safety-net hospital, bringing together physician, researcher, and patient perspectives!

Grateful for the opportunity to host the 2025 Neurogenic Bladder Research Group (NBRG) Meeting held at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center in California! 🙌🧠

This year’s meeting brought together urologists, rehabilitation physicians, therapists, engineers, researchers, and—critically—patients, all united around a shared goal: advancing care and quality of life for individuals living with neurogenic bladder and neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction
NBRG Program!

The day featured a strong mix of keynotes, panels, and multidisciplinary dialogue, including:
Insightful keynote presentations on extragenital sacral anterior root stimulation, next-generation sacral nerve stimulation, and the future of genitourinary neurorestoration

A point-counterpoint discussion on neurostimulation vs. neuromodulation, highlighting both scientific advances and real-world clinical considerations

Emerging frontiers in neuroimaging (fUSI, fMRI, electrophysiology) and how these tools can inform bladder control and rehabilitation strategies
Innovations in bladder-directed therapies, including engineered botulinum toxins, novel catheter coatings, and vaccine-based approaches to preventing UTIs

Meaningful panels centered on patient priorities and the realities of innovating within a safety-net hospital, bringing together physician, researcher, and patient perspectives!

Congratulations, Maria Flores Rodriguez! 🥳✨
We are so proud to celebrate Maria for successfully graduating from the Rancho Works and Gift Shop Program and securing outside employment! 👏👏✨
This achievement is a powerful example of what’s possible with hard work, dedication, and the right support. This is what the Rancho Works Program does—empowering individuals with skills, confidence, and real opportunities for success beyond our doors.

Way to go, Maria! We can’t wait to see all that you accomplish next! 🩵⭐️

Congratulations, Maria Flores Rodriguez! 🥳✨
We are so proud to celebrate Maria for successfully graduating from the Rancho Works and Gift Shop Program and securing outside employment! 👏👏✨
This achievement is a powerful example of what’s possible with hard work, dedication, and the right support. This is what the Rancho Works Program does—empowering individuals with skills, confidence, and real opportunities for success beyond our doors.

Way to go, Maria! We can’t wait to see all that you accomplish next! 🩵⭐️

Through support from the @honda via the The Honda Foundation, Rancho’s PK Lab is working directly with our adaptive sports athletes to better understand their experiences and find new ways to improve performance, mobility, and access in wheelchair sports! We have an exciting project in the works that documents this journey, but in the meantime we have developed a series that highlights the lived experiences behind the research and the athletes driving it forward.

To kick off this series, we sat down with players at the recent Spinal Cord Injury Games to learn more about their journeys on and off the court.

Meet Albie Gania, one of the standout athletes on the Rancho Juniors Team. Albie started playing basketball in San Diego, then found his way to Rancho when his original team did not have enough junior players. The move gave him the competitive environment and community he had been looking for, and he has been growing as both a player and a leader ever since.

During our interview, we asked Albie what lesson from basketball he carries into everyday life. His answer says everything about his mindset and how he chooses to show up in the world.

“Always put your best wheel forward.”

And then he added something even more powerful.

“How are you going to expect people to see the best in you, if that is not what you are giving them.”

Albie plays with intention, heart, and quiet leadership. His words reflect the attitude that drives him every time he gets on the court. 🏀

More athlete stories coming soon as this series continues!

Through support from the @honda via the The Honda Foundation, Rancho’s PK Lab is working directly with our adaptive sports athletes to better understand their experiences and find new ways to improve performance, mobility, and access in wheelchair sports! We have an exciting project in the works that documents this journey, but in the meantime we have developed a series that highlights the lived experiences behind the research and the athletes driving it forward.

To kick off this series, we sat down with players at the recent Spinal Cord Injury Games to learn more about their journeys on and off the court.

Meet Albie Gania, one of the standout athletes on the Rancho Juniors Team. Albie started playing basketball in San Diego, then found his way to Rancho when his original team did not have enough junior players. The move gave him the competitive environment and community he had been looking for, and he has been growing as both a player and a leader ever since.

During our interview, we asked Albie what lesson from basketball he carries into everyday life. His answer says everything about his mindset and how he chooses to show up in the world.

“Always put your best wheel forward.”

And then he added something even more powerful.

“How are you going to expect people to see the best in you, if that is not what you are giving them.”

Albie plays with intention, heart, and quiet leadership. His words reflect the attitude that drives him every time he gets on the court. 🏀

More athlete stories coming soon as this series continues!

☕️♥️Brew It Forward: 2 Days left to join our Giving Tuesday Challenge!! ✨We need all the help we can get to reach our goal to hit $600 in additional donations for the Rancho Works Café Program between now and Giving Tuesday on December 2nd - to help us hit our $3,000 goal!

Your donation fuels a program that creates real impact every single day. Rancho Works Café Program participants gain real-world job experience, build occupational skills, grow confidence, and prepare for long-term employment, all within a supportive environment rooted in possibility.

🎁 And yes… there’s a prize!
Every donor this month will be entered to win a free sandwich of your choice from the Rancho Works Café!

☕️ Why it matters:
All proceeds go directly to the Rancho Works Café Program, helping individuals gain hands-on training that opens doors to independence, opportunity, and future careers.

🌟 How you can help:
• Give any amount, every dollar helps!
⭐️⭐️Donate at the link in bio!! ⭐️⭐️
• Share this post with friends, family, or coworkers
• Encourage others to brew up opportunity with us

Let’s make this our biggest month of impact yet.
Donate today and help us hit $3,000 by Giving Tuesday!

☕️♥️Brew It Forward: 2 Days left to join our Giving Tuesday Challenge!! ✨We need all the help we can get to reach our goal to hit $600 in additional donations for the Rancho Works Café Program between now and Giving Tuesday on December 2nd - to help us hit our $3,000 goal!

Your donation fuels a program that creates real impact every single day. Rancho Works Café Program participants gain real-world job experience, build occupational skills, grow confidence, and prepare for long-term employment, all within a supportive environment rooted in possibility.

🎁 And yes… there’s a prize!
Every donor this month will be entered to win a free sandwich of your choice from the Rancho Works Café!

☕️ Why it matters:
All proceeds go directly to the Rancho Works Café Program, helping individuals gain hands-on training that opens doors to independence, opportunity, and future careers.

🌟 How you can help:
• Give any amount, every dollar helps!
⭐️⭐️Donate at the link in bio!! ⭐️⭐️
• Share this post with friends, family, or coworkers
• Encourage others to brew up opportunity with us

Let’s make this our biggest month of impact yet.
Donate today and help us hit $3,000 by Giving Tuesday!

What a beautiful day of gratitude at the Rancho Los Amigos Wellness Center! 🌻 Our research participants gathered for the annual La Buena Vida Thanksgiving celebration, enjoying food, friendship, and the joy of coming together as a community.
We’re grateful for every participant who makes this program so meaningful.
Thank you for sharing your smiles, your stories, and your spirit with us. 🧡🍂
#LaBuenaVida #ThanksgivingCelebration #RanchoLosAmigos #CommunityWellness #Gratitude

🌻 Versión en Español
¡Qué día tan hermoso de gratitud en el Centro de Bienestar de Rancho Los Amigos!
Nuestros participantes de investigación se reunieron para la celebración anual de Acción de Gracias del programa La Buena Vida, disfrutando comida, amistad y la alegría de estar juntos como comunidad.
Estamos agradecidos por cada participante que hace que este programa sea tan especial.
Gracias por compartir sus sonrisas, sus historias y su espíritu con nosotros. 🧡🍂
#LaBuenaVida #CelebraciónDeAcciónDeGracias #RanchoLosAmigos #BienestarComunitario #Gratitud

What a beautiful day of gratitude at the Rancho Los Amigos Wellness Center! 🌻 Our research participants gathered for the annual La Buena Vida Thanksgiving celebration, enjoying food, friendship, and the joy of coming together as a community.
We’re grateful for every participant who makes this program so meaningful.
Thank you for sharing your smiles, your stories, and your spirit with us. 🧡🍂
#LaBuenaVida #ThanksgivingCelebration #RanchoLosAmigos #CommunityWellness #Gratitude

🌻 Versión en Español
¡Qué día tan hermoso de gratitud en el Centro de Bienestar de Rancho Los Amigos!
Nuestros participantes de investigación se reunieron para la celebración anual de Acción de Gracias del programa La Buena Vida, disfrutando comida, amistad y la alegría de estar juntos como comunidad.
Estamos agradecidos por cada participante que hace que este programa sea tan especial.
Gracias por compartir sus sonrisas, sus historias y su espíritu con nosotros. 🧡🍂
#LaBuenaVida #CelebraciónDeAcciónDeGracias #RanchoLosAmigos #BienestarComunitario #Gratitud

Swipe to see the costume that got us a big win for the PK Lab! 🏆 We took home first place in this years annual costume contest held by Physical Therapy Department at Rancho Los Amigos!

Here’s to creativity, teamwork, and a little friendly competition! 👻

Swipe to see the costume that got us a big win for the PK Lab! 🏆 We took home first place in this years annual costume contest held by Physical Therapy Department at Rancho Los Amigos!

Here’s to creativity, teamwork, and a little friendly competition! 👻

Great times serving up all the fast food favorites at Rancho’s Halloween this year! 🍔🍟🎃 What theme should we do next year? 😆

Great times serving up all the fast food favorites at Rancho’s Halloween this year! 🍔🍟🎃 What theme should we do next year? 😆

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7601 Imperial Highway, HB 2025

Downey, CA 90242

Office: (562) 385-8111

Fax: (562) 803-5569

Email: info@ranchoresearch.org

M-F 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

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