Maribel Muoz McInty

My professional journey has been one of constant evolution and resilience. I began working for the state of California at 19 as a pay-call firefighter, carrying a pager and responding to emergencies as a first responder while attending college. After earning my Bachelor's of Science in pharmaceutical science from Fresno State University in 1995, I managed 3 pharmacies for my boss, Gary Robertson, who was the mayor of Corcoran, California. When I heard that many officers would be retiring from the prison system, I made a significant career pivot into law enforcement and became a correctional officer. Over the course of 27 years across these fields, I built a career dedicated to public service. In October 2023, my life changed dramatically when I was hit by an elderly gentleman while running on Halloween evening. I spent over 4 months in a coma and woke up in a Los Angeles hospital, where I had to relearn how to walk. Despite losing the use of my right hand and being unable to bend my right knee completely, I've worked tirelessly through physical and occupational therapy to regain my independence. I've learned to do everything with my left hand, and I'm now swimming and playing tennis again. My doctor has cleared me to return to work with some limitations, and I'm actively seeking opportunities where I can continue to make a difference and serve as an inspiration to others who have faced similar trauma.