Growing up with a Paralyzed Parent - Maya Robles, Marisa Valenti, & Kevin Hoaglund Jr.

It’s a small world after all! In this episode of Spinal Cast, Kevin Hoaglund Jr., Maya Robles, and Marisa Valenti share their personal journey of growing up in New Jersey with a parent paralyzed by spinal cord injury. These three adult children reflect on their unique experiences, navigating childhood, adolescence, and adulthood while providing insight into what it means to grow as individuals in a family dynamic that includes caregiving.

With humor, heart, and honesty, they share lessons learned and personal perspective of what’s always been normal for them. Tune in to hear their fascinating stories – because life is truly full and interesting.

Special thanks to Kevin, Maya, and Marisa 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!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

Short bios follow:

Maya Robles

A New Jersey native, holds a degree in Environmental Policy from Rutgers University. After working with the environmental nonprofit Sourland Conservancy, she launched her own business, MAR Bookkeeping, where she helps small business owners prevent stress at tax time and take the worry out of finances. For the past eight years, Maya has also shared her passion for dance, teaching at the Rutgers Swing Dance Club, and recently, teaching Lindy Hop classes for people who are blind or visually impaired. In her free time, she loves cooking, spending time in nature, and learning about native plants.

Marisa Valenti

Marisa is a New Jersey native and Travel Physical Therapist, currently working throughout the west coast. Her interests lay in Neurologic Physical Therapy, but has experience in every setting from team sports to inpatient rehabilitation. She loves to rock climb, hike, travel, exercise, and is always up for a new adventure anywhere in the world.

Kevin Hoaglund, Jr.

Born and raised in New Brunswick, NJ. Received a Sports Management degree from James Madison University in and holds a Masters Business degree in Education from Montclair State University. He has been teaching high school for eight years (New Brunswick High, Becton Regional High) and coaches JV Baseball, Varsity Swimming, and JV Baseball.