Creating A New Normal (CANN) was developed to bridge the gap between what is taught in the inpatient rehab setting and the life lessons learned post-rehab. We know doctors and therapists could never have the time to teach everything needed within the timeframe of a rehabilitation program. With that in mind, there are three main goals of this program:
- Share real, lived experiences from diverse backgrounds with different Peer Mentors each week
- Provide Resources, and
- Create a safe space to ask questions and share experiences
Each week, one of six topics is addressed with space for mentors to share their experiences and for individuals going through rehab to share and ask questions in a supportive environment. A disability can happen to anyone at any time in life. Research has shown that supportive environments promote positive adjustment following a spinal cord injury.
The six topics are rotated through, with the hope that each newly injured person receives most of these topics during their inpatient rehabilitation program. They may not start this program on “topic one,” but hopefully, they are still in rehab when topic one rolls around again.
The six topics are:
- Developing a Growth Mindset
- Community Integration & Resources
- Advocating For Yourself (in Healthcare & the Community)
- General Bowel & Bladder Maintenance
- Maintaining Skin Health
- Reducing Pain
CANN focuses on problem-solving skills. The “what if” questions. “What if I am out somewhere and xyz situation happens?” We talk about how some things can be prevented by preparation. For all the things that are not preventable, we talk about different ways that we (peer mentors) have handled the situation and what was learned.
This program also focuses on all the things we CAN do after SCI. Driving, playing sports, working, exercising, traveling, and getting out into the local community are some of the many topics we share stories around. Each participant receives a NORSCIS Resource Guide that compiles information on state organizations, businesses, and agencies that support those living with SCI. Clinical Care Research, Community Organizations, Education about Living with SCI, Equipment and Supplies, and General Resources are just some topics covered in this resource guide.
Interested in becoming a Peer Mentor? I’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to me, Megan Hammond Nechols, at mhammond1@metrohealth.org. We’re always looking to grow our network of Peer Mentors and build a diverse group that can offer meaningful support to others. If mentoring isn’t the right fit right now, you’re still welcome to join us as your schedule allows. We’re always happy to welcome community members into the group.
