The only time I remember eating oatmeal as a kid is one time at my grandma’s house. It was green apple and I can still picture the way it looked— thick, gooey, and yucky. 

I guess I decided right then and there that I would never eat it again.

A few years later, I stayed with Rainie one night when she was in college. 

The next morning, she made me eat oatmeal. Green apple oatmeal. On the way home, I got car sick and guess what… I threw up green. apple. oatmeal. Do I even have to mention— I never ate it again!

 Fast forward a few years- When I was able to eat again after my accident, I had sausage, eggs, and potatoes every morning. 

I got tired of it pretty quickly, so I started eating pancakes, french toast sticks, and waffles. I knew I needed to eat healthier since I couldn’t really exercise. 

So, I asked my personal dietitian (Rainie) what kind of healthy breakfasts I could eat and she suggested oatmeal. 

I frowned, but said I would try it… Turns out— I loveee it!!! I eat it almost every morning and I never get tired of because she makes me different kinds! 

Chocolate cherry, caramel apple, cinnamon roll, the list goes on and on! And they are all healthy!!! (still not a fan of the green apple… PTSD!!!) I always tell Rainie my goal is to be able to run again so I can eat what ever I want, but I am glad she makes me healthy food that tastes good!!! 

She adds a plant based protein powder because protein helps maintain muscle and prevent skin breakdown.

She also throws in chia seeds and nuts because the healthy fats them help keep my cholesterol levels in check.

Fiber from the oatmeal and the chia helps keep things moving right along.

These are important for everyone but especially in a spinal cord injury.

We started calling it ‘goatmeal’ because she also adds goat cheese, but we googled it. Turns out, that’s what they call food for goats!?

I’m in a few groups on Facebook where people with spinal cord injuries like me, ask for healthy ideas. Many people in them are concerned about what they eat now that they have limited mobility. 

So, if you’re in need of a better breakfast, maybe this will help!!!

Check out www.rainierobinson.com for her oatmeal recipes! She also has more healthy recipes and a great holiday menu, so, while you’re there, be sure to sign up for her Thanksgiving menu!!