This episode of Spinal Cast highlights the transformative power of writing, community, and overcoming adversity. Our guests are Zach Foor, a rehab technician, and Greg Mans, a survivor of a C3 incomplete spinal cord injury. Their friendship began in 2020 at the Recovery Project, a neuro-specialized physical therapy clinic in Livonia, Michigan. Bonded by a shared love of nature, adventure and writing, Zach decided to hike across the United States, east to west, on the American Discovery Trail (ADT) in Greg’s honor. He started on March 25, 2024 from Cape Henlopen, Delaware with Greg providing support including occasional in-person visits and virtual encouragement during his rehabilitation.
At the heart of this shared journey is the Certain Steps Writing Workshop – an eight-week virtual program led by author and teacher Peter Markus. The workshop is designed for those affected by paralysis and their caregivers, exploring how writing can become a new form of movement. Both Zach and Greg have participated in the program and are now strong advocates raising funds to support another FREE workshop upon the completion of Zach’s hike for those interested in participating.
Currently Zach has paused his trek in New Albany, Indiana, for the winter, having covered approximately 1,400 miles so far. He plans to find work and save funds for the remainder of the journey with hopes of resuming the hike in the spring or the next year. To date, he and Greg have raised $3,000 for the writing workshop fundraiser.
Godspeed, Zach!
To follow Zach, read his journal entries, donate/sign up for the writing workshop go here:
Instagram: @zach.foor
Facebook: Zachary Foor
More on Peter Markus, the writing instructor can be found here:
https://oakland.edu/english/directory/markus/
Want to read more about Zach and Greg’s story? Go here:
Special thanks to Greg & Zach for being our guests! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!
Watch these episodes - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v
More about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund - https://mcpf.org/
Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/
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