This month’s spotlight is Naomi from Massachusetts! Naomi has received Active Fund grants for a monoski, handcycle, and adaptive horseback riding saddle. 

Naomi’s favorite ways to stay active are horseback riding, kayaking, weight training at the gym, gardening, or out on a long bike ride. “Being active has always been a part of who I am,” she says. “It keeps me grounded, challenged, and connected.”

Naomi has participated in the Kelly Brush Ride since 2018 and it’s become one of the highlights of her year. She made history when she became the first female handcyclist to complete the full 100-mile ride. “I had learned that there hadn’t been a female handcyclist to successfully complete the century and wanted to take a stab at it,” she says. “Several male friends told me that they didn’t think it was possible for me to do without an e-assist. That was all I had to hear—tell me I can’t, and I will.” Naomi says the ride was incredibly difficult but deeply rewarding. “I honestly loved every minute of it, including the parts where I was in pain,” she shares. “I was so determined to complete the ride, no matter what.”

For Naomi, the Kelly Brush Foundation community is more than just a network—it’s a second family. “It grows every year, and every year I meet new and amazing athletes who are going through similar struggles,” she says. “When I was injured in 2005, I didn’t have an SCI community. It was a very lonely place to be. That’s why KBF means so much to me.”

She also shares a special connection with Kelly herself. “We have the same level of injury and were injured just under a year apart,” Naomi explains. “Kelly has always been so kind and welcoming. I’ve always felt like she genuinely cares about me, and that’s really special.”

Now, Naomi stays connected year-round by following other KBF athletes on social media. “It helps me feel inspired and reminds me that I’m not alone,” she says. “The KBF community is full of passionate, fun people who love getting outside and staying active. I’m proud to be part of it.” 

See you in Middlebury for the 20th Ride, Naomi!