We’re honored to share that Push to Walk was recently featured on the Blink of an Eye podcast, a powerful series exploring trauma, resilience, and human connection following spinal cord injuries (SCI). Hosted by Louise Phipps Senft, episode #249 centers around Cynthia Templeton—co-founder of Push to Walk—and the journey that began with her son Darren’s injury in 2004.
Listen to the full episode here: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
From Personal Crisis to Community Mission
After Darren sustained a C5 incomplete spinal cord injury at age 18, Cynthia and her family were thrust into the whirlwind of traditional rehab—but they soon realized something was missing. That “something” became the inspiration for Push to Walk: a place rooted in activity-based training, where individuals with paralysis could rebuild strength, independence, and confidence.
Originally modeled after Project Walk in California, Push to Walk became a certified facility of that program before evolving into its own uniquely adaptive and client-focused center. Today, it’s a leader in neuro-focused care, offering goal-oriented, one-on-one training using advanced equipment such as exoskeletons, vibration technology, and functional electrical stimulation systems.
Why Activity-Based Training Matters
Cynthia explains that activity-based training is about more than just exercise—it’s about neuromuscular reconditioning. “We really want to retrain the brain and help it remember what it used to know,” she says. The approach encourages clients to visualize and mentally engage in every movement, reinforcing the mind-body connection—even when motor function is limited.
Every training session is deeply personalized. If a client is experiencing spasms or fatigue, the team adapts on the spot—shifting from walking practice to stretching or vibration-based stimulation to meet the client’s needs while maintaining progress. “The trainer makes the difference,” Cynthia shares. “They know the body, and they adjust the plan based on the client’s goals and daily condition.”
A Community That Lifts Each Other
Push to Walk is more than just an adaptive training center—it’s a community. From the early days of Darren’s recovery, Cynthia recounts how friends and neighbors organized meals, provided rides, and held fundraisers. That same spirit now fuels Push to Walk’s culture of support among clients, families, staff, and researchers.
“For someone to be able to sit up independently and eat with their family, that’s life-changing. It may not seem big to others, but for that person—it’s everything.” — Cynthia Templeton
Funding the Future of SCI Recovery
Push to Walk operates on a private-pay model, meaning most clients must cover costs out-of-pocket. With sessions averaging $115/hour, affordability can be a major barrier to long-term progress. That’s why Cynthia and her team assist clients in setting up personal fundraisers through platforms like Help Hope Live—and why Push to Walk continues to raise funds for its own scholarship program.
Cynthia also advocates for systemic change: “We’re helping form a national association to create a collective voice. We hope to push for insurance coverage of long-term, outpatient SCI programs like ours, because they’re not optional—they’re essential.”
On the Cutting Edge of Recovery
From adaptive fitness and vibration therapy to exoskeletons and following neural implant research, Push to Walk is deeply committed to innovation. But as Cynthia says, “Equipment is just equipment—it’s the professionals who bring it to life.” The team constantly evolves their wellness programs to keep clients challenged, engaged, and working toward their personal milestones.
Final Thoughts
Cynthia’s journey—from a mother navigating the unknown to a community leader driving national change—reflects what Push to Walk stands for: empowerment, connection, and possibility. This episode of Blink of an Eye beautifully captures that spirit.
Listen to Episode #249 now:
Push to Walk is located in Montvale, NJ. Visitors are always welcome to tour our facility.
If you or someone you know is navigating life with a spinal cord injury or paralysis, we’re here to help.
