This month’s spotlight comes directly from Dianne Vitkus. Dianne is excited to share with us her new role and the many hats she wears as a mentor within the SCI community. 

Hello, I am Dianne from Charlestown, Massachusetts! I am excited to share that I am the new Resource Program Manager at the Travis Roy Center. The Spaulding Travis Roy Center for Enhanced Independence is dedicated to accelerating personal independence and quality of life for those with tetraplegia due to SCI, their families, and caregivers. The resource program manager will serve as a primary point of contact for patients and their families, providing them guidance and support on technology-related resources while in-hospital and after discharge from the hospital. The manager will ensure that the supportive services align with patient-specific needs and goals, working collaboratively with healthcare providers and the center’s team. 

I am an incredibly determined and fiercely independent person, and after my spinal cord injury, I dedicated myself to maintaining that independence through perseverance and hard work. I understand the challenges and adjustments that come with such a life-changing event, and I’ve learned firsthand that independence is not just about physical ability but also about mindset, resourcefulness, and support. That’s why I’m so passionate about helping others who are newly injured discover their own potential to live autonomous, fulfilling lives. I want to share the knowledge, tools, and encouragement that can empower them to overcome obstacles and reclaim their sense of self and independence. It’s not an easy journey, but I believe that with the right resources and a strong community like what is offered within the Travis Roy Center, anyone can achieve more than they ever thought possible.

I’ve absolutely loved facilitating the Kelly Brush Foundation Active Project Live which is a discussion group focusing on adaptive sports and recreation. Interacting with and sharing tips, tricks and ideas around how to get active with people in the spinal cord injury community has not only been fun, but incredibly rewarding. Contributing to something bigger than yourself can create a sense of fulfillment and meaning to life, which is especially important when managing the feelings of feeling like a burden that often come with living with a spinal cord injury and being disabled. Giving back also fosters a sense of togetherness and with time this can develop into forming bonds that feel more like family. For me one of those family oriented connections has come from being a participant at EmpowerSCI where I now serve as a peer mentor. Other SCI organizations I am a part of that produce similar feelings of unity and camaraderie are SCI Boston, Impossible Dream and Wings for Life. 

Staying active and involved in adaptive sports is a cornerstone of my life and well-being. Beyond the physical benefits, these activities provide me with a sense of freedom, connection, and purpose. Cross-country skiing, sailing, and hand cycling are more than just sports—they’re opportunities for me to fully immerse myself in the beauty and tranquility of nature, to breathe in fresh air, and to feel a deep connection to the world around me. These moments outdoors are incredibly grounding and energizing.

On the other hand, rugby taps into my competitive spirit and love for teamwork. It’s a sport that challenges me both mentally and physically, while also giving me the camaraderie of being part of a team. Rugby creates a unique bond among players, and I thrive on the shared determination, strategy, and passion that come with every practice. Together, these activities enrich my life by keeping me physically strong, mentally sharp, and emotionally fulfilled.

Thank you for everything that you do for our community, Dianne!