NDEAM Profile: Tosha Gallegos, Hotel Front Desk Receptionist, Paraplegic

For today’s daily disability employment profile of a person with a spinal cord injury in honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month we’re profiling Tosha Gallegos, a hot front desk receptionist from Wyoming.

In the comments, please share if you are ❤ working post spinal cord injury, 💚 when you started, and 💙 what you love most about your job 👍

Name?

Tosha Gallegos

Age?
37

Where Do You Live?

Cheyenne, WY

How and When Were You Injured?

“Motorcycle accident May 28th, 2021. We hit a patch of dirt left on the road. My husband straightened it out but couldn’t continue the curve. We were sent into the ditch and I went above my husband and skidded 20 yards. I am now a T7 complete, truthfully this don’t mean anything. I just got me legs to out shop my 3 teenage daughters. Lol”

Were You Employed Pre-Injury?

“I worked full-time for Wyoming Medicaid. I processed applications and answered the phone when individuals needed help with their application or had questions. I worked there from September 2020 to the accident.”

Current Job?

“I just started my new job in March 2023. I work at the front desk of a Marriott Hotel.”

Describe Your Job:

“I check customers in and out of their room. I also help our breakfast attendant when I can by stocking items and letting her know when food is about to be out. I will also help fold towels when laundry gets really behind. I also answer the phone, help make reservations, and I will spot deep as needed.”

How Did You Find Your Current Job?

Indeed.com

How Long Did You Search for Your Current Job?

“It took a year. I would get an interview with an employer and when they saw my wheels they would freeze up.”

Please Name Any programs That Supported You Finding or Maintaining Your Current Job:

DVR services (voc rehab)

What Kind of Disability Accommodations, If Any, Have You Requested and Received from Your Employer?

“The only thing I need help with is assistance picking up things when I’ve dropped them. Truthfully, they are really good to me. Everyone no matter their department has helped me when I’ve needed it.”

Do You Have Tips for Getting Hired?

“At my interview I was an open book. I told them about my injury after the interview. I felt like we connected. I am a huge people person and really opened about what happened.”

Advice for Maintaining Employment Long-Term?

“Be as open as you can and communication.”

If You Could Go Back in Time, What Advice Would You Give Yourself Before Pursuing Your Career Path?

“Never give up. God has a plan for you and He knows what job is prefect for you.”

Is There Anything Else You’d Like to Add About Your Job Search or Employment Experience?

“I recommend researching the job field you’re interested in and start to develop your skills in that field and focus on one path.”

— Follow Tosha on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/tosha.gallegos/