Mason Branstrator: Redefining Life After a Spinal Cord Injury
In the world of accessible travel, adventure, and advocacy, Mason Branstrator has emerged as a powerful voice and positive light. Despite his life-changing spinal cord injury, Mason has transformed his challenges into opportunities to inspire others, embrace community, and redefine his purpose. His journey from injury to advocate is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the power of embracing life fully.
Make sure to listen to the full interview on Travel Talk With Joy where Mason tells his story.
What's Ahead?
Interview with Mason Branstrator | Travel Talk With Joy
A Life-Altering Moment
Mason’s story began with a seemingly ordinary day on the slopes. On January 18th, nearly four years ago, Mason was skiing when he hit a jump at high speed, flipping backward and landing on his back and neck. The impact broke his T12 vertebra, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down.
In the ICU, Mason faced a choice that would shape his recovery: to succumb to despair or make the best of his circumstances. “I realized I could either lay in bed and feel sorry for myself or do everything in my power to stay positive despite the trauma,” Mason shared. He chose the latter, embracing a mindset that would guide his path forward.
"I realized I could either lay in bed and feel sorry for myself or do everything in my power to stay positive despite the trauma"
The Importance of Community
Mason credits much of his resilience to the support and community he found during his rehabilitation at Craig Hospital in Denver. “At Craig, I was surrounded by people going through what I was going through. That connection was invaluable,” Mason explained.
Unlike others who may resist leaning into the wheelchair community, Mason found strength in shared experiences. “I balanced my determination to walk with engaging in my community,” he said. This dual approach enabled him to draw strength from peers while continuing to pursue physical recovery.
Redefining Recovery and Adventure
Mason’s journey to recovery was not without its struggles. Initially, he focused solely on physical therapy, determined to regain function. Over time, however, he shifted his perspective, embracing the functional capabilities his body afforded him.
“I learned that my recovery is only as important as how it enhances my daily life,” Mason reflected. He found value in standing to perform simple tasks, like reaching a top shelf or putting his wheelchair in the car. He also embraced adaptive sports, including mountain biking, marathons, and triathlons, as ways to push boundaries and rediscover joy.
Navigating Air Travel and Advocacy
Travel became a major part of Mason’s life post-injury, but it required learning how to navigate the challenges of flying with a disability. Mason’s essential travel companion is his Firefly, a detachable electric attachment for his wheelchair that enhances mobility.
“Flying with a disability is all about preparation and confidence,” Mason explained. By remaining calm, advocating for his needs, and directing others with clarity, Mason has successfully traveled with his Firefly dozens of times. His approach underscores the importance of self-advocacy in ensuring smooth travel experiences.
A Purpose in Advocacy
Mason’s content creation journey began with a simple desire to share resources and inspire others. He quickly realized the impact his transparency and authenticity had on the spinal cord injury community. “There’s a huge disparity in education about spinal cord injuries,” Mason said. “Sharing resources isn’t just a calling—it’s a responsibility.”
Through his platforms, Mason highlights innovative tools like the Firefly, Freedom Trax, and Spoonie Threads adaptive clothing, ensuring others have access to life-changing solutions. His advocacy work is rooted in uplifting his community and normalizing life with a disability.
"There’s a huge disparity in education about spinal cord injuries"
Finding Happiness and Purpose
For Mason, happiness lies in helping others and fostering connection. “The most important part of the human experience is connecting with others and doing right by your community,” he said. His work as an influencer and advocate reflects his commitment to creating a positive impact.
Mason’s resilience, honesty, and drive have made him a beacon of hope in the disability community. Whether he’s sharing resources, showing his accessible adventures, or inspiring newly injured individuals, Mason embodies the power of purpose and positivity.
Key Lessons from Masons' Journey
1. Embrace Positivity: Mason chose to focus on what he could control, turning his challenges into opportunities for growth.
2. Find Strength in Community: Building connections with others who understand your experience can be transformative.
3. Push Boundaries: Adaptive sports and recreation have shown Mason the possibilities of living fully.
4. Advocate for Yourself: Confidence and preparation are essential for navigating challenges, from daily life to travel.
5. Share and Inspire: Mason’s commitment to uplifting others demonstrates the profound impact of collective support.
Mason Branstrator’s journey is a powerful reminder that life’s challenges can become opportunities for growth and connection. His dedication to the disability community continues to inspire and empower countless individuals around the world.
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