Spinal Cast

In this LIVE episode of Spinal Cast Peter Morton, Host and Dr. Sam Wattrus sit down to discuss Sam’s research funded by MCPF. They explore why organisms like zebrafish can regenerate their spinal cords while humans cannot. His work focuses on how immune cells called macrophages interact with injured spinal cord tissue and how the signaling molecule Calreticulin may help recruit these cells to the injury site. Dr. Wattrus also shares what other work he finds exciting in the research space. Fascinating stuff!Dr. Wattrus is a Junior Fellow in the Department of Molecular Biology (Wattrus Lab) at Massachusetts General Hospital. He received his undergraduate and PhD degree from Harvard. He is also a member of Forbes 30 Under 30 in science (2024).Special thanks to Dr. Wattrus for being our guest! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cory injury research. Thanks to David Stevens for provided technical and editing support. Most important – 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=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3vIf 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/

Transitions take some getting used to - but often they open the door to something better. Over the years, our most-listened-to episodes have been those focused on specific research breakthroughs. With that in mind, Spinal Cast will be evolving in 2026 to a quarterly format, with Peter Morton stepping into the host role. Who better to guide these conversations than Peter himself - especially as we dive deeper into the research funded by MCPF and the impact it’s having on the spinal cord injury community? These live episodes with researchers will create more opportunities for real-time engagement with individuals living with SCI, as well as their families, friends, and our supporters. While we’re excited about what’s ahead, this transition comes with a heartfelt note of gratitude and appreciation for David Stevens. David’s curiosity, thoughtfulness, and ability to ask the questions that truly mattered helped shape Spinal Cast into what it is today. His voice, perspective, humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed in this role. Join us as we begin this next chapter of Spinal Cast - honoring where we’ve been and excited about what lies ahead. If you happen to miss a live episode – no worries. You will have access on your favorite listening platforms, just like before. 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=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3vIf you'd like more information about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can find us at - https://mcpf.org/ Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

Meet Jeff Toby from St. Paul, Minnesota. At just 22, a motorcycle accident left him a C5 quadriplegic — but it didn’t stop his drive. Instead of following his family’s business, Jeff turned his energy toward finding a cure for paralysis. Through decades of advocacy and 26 years of organizing golf tournaments, he’s helped raise more than $500,000 for spinal cord research.In this episode of Spinal Cast, Jeff shares what it’s really like to live long-term with a spinal cord injury, why research still matters, and how community keeps hope alive. He’s honest about his frustration with the slow pace of progress, but also energized by today’s breakthroughs — because every neurological discovery brings us one step closer to cures for multiple diseases.Jeff reminds us that change takes all of us — those injured, their families, and friends — working together to keep pushing forward. We can’t take our foot off the gas. Everyone has a role to play in finding new therapies and driving the future of spinal cord injury research.Special thanks to Jeff for being our guest! 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=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3vIf 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/

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we are joined by Topher Downham, an adventurer, educator, and quadriplegic whose happiest moments are spent in the great outdoors. Passionate about helping others with disabilities connect to nature, Topher helped create a trail guidebook for Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks, rides adaptive bikes built for every kind of terrain, travels the globe for new experiences, and started Omni Accessible, a firm that provides knowledge and expertise of outdoor accessibility world-wide. We talk about physical challenges, the thrill of trying new things, and the mutual benefit of connecting with people – especially under the open sky. Topher’s journey is as inspiring as the landscapes he explores. As Topher says: “Magic happens out there!” Topher’s bio and links to organizations are mentioned in the podcast, plus many other adaptive organizations can be found here: https://mcpf.org/topher-downham-bio/ Special thanks to Topher for being our guest! 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/

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we explore what it really means to meet someone where they are on their recovery journey. Our guests, Beth Reeves, a clinical social worker and Vanessa Jewell, an occupational therapist from The Institute of Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR) Memorial Herman Outpatient Rehabilitation, share how support groups and learning new skills – whether over Zoom or in person opens doors to new confidence and connection after an injury. They discuss how peer-to-peer connections spark inspiration, celebrate shared victories, and make daunting transitions feel doable. From learning new technologies to adapting to a new way of living, the friendships formed in these spaces create a community that says, “you’re not alone.” This conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to go down an unfamiliar road by yourself – you’ve got friends who’ve been there, and they’ve got your back. TIRR Memorial Hermann Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: https://memorialhermann.org/services/treatments/spinal-cord-injury-rehabilitation Bios for Beth and Vanessa can be found here: https://mcpf.org/tirr-bios/. Special thanks to Beth and Vanessa 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=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3vIf 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/

Does attitude matter? Just ask Hunter Pinke. In this episode of Spinal Cast, we sit down with Hunter Pinke – a proud, small town North Dakotan athlete with a universal message. After a skiing accident changed his life, Hunter chose to rise, not retreat. With a big heart and an unwavering positive outlook, he’s turned adversity into purpose – helping others face their own challenges with authenticity and grace. Hunter doesn’t sugarcoat struggle, but he redefines it. His philosophy? One of many: stack good days, and good outcomes will follow. Tune in for an honest, uplifting conversation that reminds us all - you’re not alone, and your hardest moments can become your greatest strengths. Hunter’s personal bio can be found at https://www.hunterpinke.com/ If you want to hear more from Hunter, check out his podcast, Sit Down with Hunter Pinke. The first episode dropped on June 25, 2025. Here’s the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5kTdFGHYEU Special thanks to Hunter for being our guest! 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=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3vLearn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund at - https://mcpf.org/ Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we’re joined by Dr. Murray Blackmore – renowned for making complex biology accessible. He breaks down the incredible science behind spinal cord repair, from neurons and axons to the genes that guide regeneration. His groundbreaking research explores how mimicking gene activity could help severed axons reconnect, offering real hope for recovery after spinal cord injury. We also discuss a critical issue: potential cuts to NIH and federal research funding. Dr. Blackmore shares what’s at stake if these cuts go through – and why the future of innovation depends on continued support. This is a must listen! A professional bio for Dr. Blackmore can be found here: https://www.marquette.edu/biomedical-sciences/directory/murray-blackmore.php Special thanks to Dr. Blackmore for being our guest! 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=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3vIf 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/

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we shine the spotlight on the 44th Annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games, coming to Minneapolis from July 17-22, 2025. Hosted by the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs, this event is the largest adaptive sports and rehabilitation competition for U.S. military veterans with disabilities. Our guest is Seth Thomas, President of the Minnesota Chapter of the PVA and a U.S. Navy veteran. Seth shares his powerful story – from his service and injury to his leadership role – and gives us an inside look at what makes these games so special. Over 700 athletes will compete across 20+ events, supported by thousands of volunteers. Participants include veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological conditions requiring the use of a wheelchair. The Minnesota PVA plays a vital role in veteran advocacy, employment connections, legislation, and community engagement and, of course, providing a network of support and opportunity through sport. If you’re in the Minneapolis area, don’t miss this inspiring six-day celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and athletic excellence. It’s like a mini-Paralympics, complete with Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals – a true showcase of American heroes from every military branch and era. For more information, check out the links below: National Veterans Wheelchair Games - https://wheelchairgames.org/ 2025 Game Schedule - https://wheelchairgames.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/44th-NVWG-Sch-Wkbk-V2.xlsx03.10.pdf 2025 Venues - https://wheelchairgames.org/about/event-venues/ Paralyzed Veterans of American – Minnesota Chapter - https://mnpva.org/ Special thanks to Seth for being our guest! 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/

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we’re chatting with Dr. Isaura Martins about some seriously cool science. Her lab is digging into the world of pericytes - not the spooky creature, but a real type of cell that plays a big role in protecting the vascular barrier in the spinal cord during injury and repair.We discuss why pericytes are critical in spinal cord recovery and how winning the Wings of Life Foundation Research Award helped kickstart her lab. We also learn about her passion for mentoring women in science through the World Women in Neuroscience.She’s not just a rockstar researcher - she’s helping shape the future of neuroscience and making the case for why supporting science benefits everyone. Turns out pericytes aren’t spooky at all.Special thanks to Dr. Martins for being our guest! 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=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3vIf 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/Links of interest associated with this episode:Neurotrauma Lab (Isaura Martins, PhD): http://www.imartinslab.com/World Women in Neuroscience - https://worldwomenneuro.org/Bio for Isaura Martins, PhD follows:Dr. Isaura Martins has a degree in Biochemistry from University of Coimbra, Portugal, where she also did her Masters. It was during this time that she fell in love with Neuroscience. This led to a Bachelor and Master Thesis at the Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology - CNC, where she worked with cell culture of hippocampal neurons and leptin and ghrelin as neuroprotector agents against neurotoxicity of Abeta Oligomers. She then pursued a PhD in Neuroscience at University of Manchester, UK, exploring the role of high-fat diets in the triple transgenic model of Alzheimer´s as well as its impact on blood brain barrier and memory. She returned to Portugal in 2015 as a postdoctoral fellow at Leonor Saúde’s Lab at Institute of Molecular Medicine (iMM) and started to work on spinal cord injury, where she implemented the contusion mouse model. In 2024 Dr. Martins started her own laboratory at Católica Medical School - Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Health, where she focuses on neurovascular components of the blood spinal cord barrier and their role in spinal cord repair.

Some people are natural athletes. They take risks and love that adrenaline high. Scott Hogsett is one of those people. After a life-changing accident left him quadriplegic in his first year of college, Scott refused to let it define his future. Instead, he pushed the limits – physically and mentally – becoming a powerhouse in the world of adaptive sports. A three-time Team USA Paralympic Wheelchair Rugby medalist, Scott clinched GOLD at the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing, China (Bronze in 2004 - Greece and 2012 - England.) Yet Scott’s ultimate reward was being inducted into the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame. Now retired from competition his impact hasn’t dwindled. He dedicates his time mentoring hundreds of patients recovering from spinal cord injuries through the Barrow Connector Mentorship Program. In this episode Scott shares his incredible story, proving that life’s challenges are just opportunities in disguise. Scott’s Biography: https://mcpf.org/scott-hogsett/ Special thanks to Scott for being our guest! 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/