Spotlight: A Conversation With Maggie Whittum — Survivor, Artist, and Advocate

At our recent stroke-survivor meeting, we were joined by someone many of us in Colorado already know and admire: Maggie Whittum. Maggie is not only a stroke survivor but also a powerful voice in Denver’s theatre and disability-arts community. She has been part of several survivor groups I’ve attended over the years. Every time she shows up, she brings honesty, clarity, and a deep understanding of what long-term recovery really looks like.

During our meeting, Maggie shared something she’s been using for the past year and a half: the Chanda Center for Health in Lakewood. Sitting next to her, I asked a few questions, and her answers were eye-opening for all of us in the room.

What the Chanda Center Offers

Maggie explained that the center provides non-traditional, integrative treatments for people with spinal cord injuries, stroke, brain injury, MS, and other neurological conditions. Services include:

• Acupuncture

• Massage

• Chiropractic care

  
  

For Maggie, these therapies aren’t just “nice to have.” They directly improve her nerve pain, mobility, and day-to-day function. She described the burning, crushing nerve pain she lives with 24/7 and how weekly massage and acupuncture help reduce that pain and help her walk better.

A Place Designed for Us

One thing that stood out in her description was how deeply accessible the center is:

• Wide hallways

• Fully accessible bathrooms

• Every parking spot is van-accessible

• Staff trained to assist with transfers, dressing, and mobility needs

  
  

As Maggie put it, it’s a place where disabled people are treated “on the level” — not with pity, not with assumptions, but with respect and competence.

Medicaid Coverage and the Waiver Expansion

Maggie also shared something many survivors in our group didn’t know: The Chanda Center accepts Medicaid, including the Medicaid Buy-In Program for working adults with disabilities.

Even better, the Medicaid waiver that covers these services recently expanded statewide, meaning survivors across Colorado may now qualify for coverage — even if they don’t live near Lakewood.

Scheduling and Availability

I asked her about something many of us struggle with: long wait times for appointments. Maggie said that once you’re on the waiver, you can usually get consistent weekly appointments. Even without the waiver, openings often come up within a week or two.

Why It Matters

When I asked Maggie for her top three reasons she keeps going, she didn’t hesitate:

1. You’re treated with dignity — not pity.

2. It genuinely helps her nerve pain and mobility.

3. It’s simply a beautiful, calming place to be.

   
   

For survivors, caregivers, and anyone navigating neurological recovery, that combination matters more than most people realize.

The Importance of Community Support

Having a supportive community is crucial in recovery. It provides a sense of belonging and understanding. Maggie’s presence at our meetings is a reminder that we are not alone. We share our stories, our struggles, and our victories. This connection fosters resilience and hope.

Finding Resources and Information

If you attend our meetings or know someone who might benefit, Maggie left brochures for the group. The Chanda Center’s website has more details and a video about its founder, Chanda Hinton, whose own spinal cord injury inspired the entire organization. You can find more information here.

Personal Reflections on Recovery

Reflecting on my own journey, I understand the challenges that come with recovery. Each day can feel like a mountain to climb. But with resources like the Chanda Center and the support of individuals like Maggie, I find hope. It reminds me that healing is not just about the physical aspects; it’s also about emotional and mental well-being.

Embracing the Journey

Recovery is a journey filled with ups and downs. It’s essential to embrace each step, no matter how small. We learn to celebrate the little victories, whether it’s managing pain better or simply feeling more connected to others.

In closing, I invite you to explore the resources available to you. Reach out, connect, and find your community. Together, we can navigate this path with hope and resilience.