Conversations with Carlos Benavides

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlos Benavides.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am a C2-T1 tetraplegic with, spinal cord injury.
I chair the Patient Family Advisory Council at Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center in Downey Ca.
I am the President of the Los Angeles County Commission on Disabilities.
An artist, and CEO for Pushrim Foundation, where we donate wheelchairs and art supplies and other durable medical equiptment to people who do not qualify. to name a few.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I was injured in 2003, and had my surgery in 2005, was not able to get into therapy till 2007, where
I was able to finally get in but had to be admitted as a polio victim, just to get into rehab, then took me 3 more years befor I was able to get a spinal cord doctor, so there were many challenges.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
While I may not fit the traditional “professional” mold, I am a dedicated volunteer at Rancho Los Amigos, having contributed over 25,000 hours. I was honored by Supervisors, Janice Hahn, and the Rancho Administration with the naming of the Carlos Benavides Amphitheatre in my honor, a truly humbling experience. I am a passionate advocate, often attending meetings with my service dog, Vito, to champion positive change. Additionally, I am an artist.