"Nobody really knows the plasticity potential of the spinal cord," said director Jan Black, who holds a master's degree in physical therapy.

Black, like Anderson, advocates daily exercise for injured patients so they can have as much functional capacity as possible.

Much of the credit for improvements in spinal cord rehabilitation should go to emergency medical responders, she said. Improved techniques in emergency rooms and intensive care units are allowing patients to escape paralysis through quick surgery. Many spinal cord patients are now left with at least some function, she said.

Anderson hopes to finish her studies in human development and then become a guidance counselor and inspirational speaker.

"Some people, they break their backs and it breaks them," Anderson said. "But for me, it woke me up. I love to help people find their happiness again."

Anderson wants to talk to students of all ages about interacting with people who have disabilities. She would suggest that people in the general population ask people with disabilities why they have to use equipment like wheelchairs or voiceboxes, she said.

"Look at me," she said. "I know you're curious. If you want to ask me questions, ask me."

When not working, studying or in therapy, Anderson raises money for her therapy, which her insurance policy doesn't cover. Monthly treatments cost about $2,000.

To donate to the nonprofit clinic Anderson attends in California, visit awakeningshealthinstitute.org. To donate to the nonprofit organization that runs the South Jordan clinic, visit neuroworx.org.

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E-mail: rpalmer@desnews.com