What began as a normal day for Cynthia quickly turned into a life-altering medical emergency. At just 23 years old, Cynthia suffered a severe stroke that left doctors giving her less than a 1% chance of survival. Recently accepted to begin her Ph.D, Cynthia suddenly found all her plans out of reach.

Despite what she was told by her doctors, Cynthia defied the odds. After spending over a year in various hospitals experiencing locked-in syndrome, memory difficulties, inability to speak, paralysis, and hearing loss, Cynthia began a remarkable journey of recovery.

Today, Cynthia continues to make progress. She can speak and is working toward greater independence. With the help of SCI-FIT exercise therapy in Sacramento, Cynthia is standing and walking with assistance. However, due to financial constraints, Cynthia was unable to consistently attend after a while.

Through her VVF scholarship, Cynthia has been able to get back on a schedule and keep working towards her independence.

“Though slow I am walking to the bathroom using a forearm walker by applying what I have learned at my training. I couldn’t be more grateful for my scholarship that helped make this happen.”