Spinal cord injuries may not directly impact a person’s ability to conceive, carry, and experience giving birth. However, disability-related challenges may arise during pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum periods.
We discussed many aspects of this topic in several posts, such as Sexuality and Fertility after Spina Cord Injury and Fertility following spinal cord injury. Now we would like to introduce Ryan Rae Harbuck.
Ryan is an accomplished author, swim coach, motivational speaker, wife, and mother. During her teenage years, she suffered a spinal cord injury that left her paralysed from the chest down. Despite her disability, Ryan has always been determined to live life to the fullest, surpassing the expectations of many. Her book, When I Grow Up I Want to Be a Chair, is a priceless treasure with her courage and determination.
As a mother with a spinal cord injury, Ryan understands the challenges that people like her face. Many doctors and healthcare providers may not have experience with this type of situation. To help others with spinal cord injuries who want to become parents, Ryan has shared her own experiences of becoming pregnant, carrying her babies, and giving birth. Her story, featured on HuffPost, offers valuable insights and guidance for those navigating similar journeys.
Today, Ryan resides in Denver with her husband and two sons. If you’d like to learn more about Ryan and her book, please visit her website.