The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation: Leading the Fight Against Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation: Leading the Fight Against Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing innovative research to cure spinal cord injury and improving the quality of life for individuals living with paralysis. Since its founding in 1999, the Reeve Foundation has become a beacon of hope for millions of people worldwide who are affected by spinal cord injuries. The organization is named after Christopher Reeve, the beloved actor best known for his role as Superman, who became a quadriplegic following a horseback riding accident in 1995. Together with his wife, Dana Reeve, he championed the cause of spinal cord injury research and quality of life initiatives for those living with paralysis.

The mission of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is twofold: to cure spinal cord injury through innovative research and to improve the health and well-being of individuals living with paralysis. The Foundation achieves this mission through a comprehensive approach that includes funding cutting-edge research, providing support services, advocating for public policies that benefit the paralysis community, and raising public awareness about the challenges and opportunities associated with spinal cord injury.

The Reeve Foundation's initiatives, such as the Paralysis Resource Center and the NeuroRecovery Network, are at the forefront of efforts to provide critical resources, support, and rehabilitation to individuals living with paralysis. These initiatives not only empower individuals to live full, independent lives but also drive the scientific advancements necessary to bring about a cure for spinal cord injury.

This comprehensive article explores the history, mission, key programs, advocacy efforts, and the significant impact of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. We will also examine the organization’s role in advancing spinal cord injury research, raising public awareness, shaping public policy, and its vision for a future where paralysis is no longer a life sentence.

The Legacy of Christopher and Dana Reeve

The Life of Christopher Reeve

Christopher Reeve is best known for his iconic portrayal of Superman in the 1978 film and its sequels. However, his most heroic role began off-screen when he was paralyzed from the neck down after a horse-riding accident in 1995. Following his injury, Reeve became a passionate advocate for spinal cord injury research and the rights of individuals with disabilities. He dedicated the remainder of his life to raising awareness, funding research, and advocating for greater support and accessibility for those living with paralysis.

Reeve's determination and unwavering optimism in the face of his injury inspired millions around the world. He refused to accept the limitations imposed by his condition and worked tirelessly to advance scientific research that he believed would one day lead to a cure. His advocacy brought unprecedented attention to spinal cord injuries, mobilizing public and private sectors to invest in research and support for those living with paralysis.

Dana Reeve's Role and Advocacy

Dana Reeve, Christopher's wife, was a tireless advocate for the same cause, providing her husband with unwavering support and becoming a leading voice in the fight against paralysis. Following Christopher's death in 2004, Dana continued their shared mission, leading the Foundation and championing efforts to improve the lives of individuals with paralysis.

Dana Reeve's work was characterized by her compassion, resilience, and commitment to ensuring that the Foundation's vision continued to grow and impact lives. Tragically, Dana Reeve passed away from lung cancer in 2006, but her legacy, like Christopher's, lives on through the work of the Reeve Foundation.

The Founding and Early History of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation

The Origins of the Reeve Foundation: A Personal Journey to Advocacy

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation was born out of a deeply personal journey that began with a life-altering event. On May 27, 1995, Christopher Reeve, a world-renowned actor, and advocate, suffered a devastating spinal cord injury during an equestrian event, leaving him paralyzed from the shoulders down. This tragic incident thrust Reeve into a new role—not just as a patient, but as a passionate advocate for spinal cord injury research and the rights of individuals living with paralysis.

In the years following his injury, Christopher Reeve, along with his wife Dana, became vocal proponents of spinal cord injury research and quality of life initiatives. They recognized the significant gaps in funding, research, and support for individuals with spinal cord injuries and were determined to change the landscape. Their efforts culminated in the founding of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation in 1999, an organization dedicated to advancing the search for a cure and improving the lives of those affected by paralysis.

The Foundation’s early years were marked by a strong emphasis on raising awareness about spinal cord injury and advocating for increased funding for research. Christopher Reeve used his public platform to draw attention to the urgent need for scientific advancements and to rally support for the cause. His unwavering determination and resilience inspired millions, and his legacy continues to drive the Foundation’s mission today.

Early Research and Advocacy Efforts

From its inception, the Reeve Foundation has been deeply committed to advancing research that has the potential to lead to breakthroughs in the treatment and cure of spinal cord injuries. The Foundation recognized that meaningful progress could only be achieved through a comprehensive approach that combined cutting-edge research with public awareness and advocacy efforts.

One of the Foundation’s early successes was its role in advocating for increased federal funding for spinal cord injury research. The Reeve Foundation worked closely with lawmakers and policymakers to secure funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other research institutions, ensuring that spinal cord injury research received the attention and resources it deserved. These efforts were instrumental in advancing the field and in laying the groundwork for future scientific discoveries.

In addition to its advocacy efforts, the Reeve Foundation began funding innovative research projects aimed at understanding the mechanisms of spinal cord injury and developing new treatments. The Foundation’s early research initiatives focused on areas such as neuroprotection, regeneration, and functional recovery, with the goal of identifying therapies that could restore movement and sensation to individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Growth and Expansion: Building a Comprehensive Support Network

As the Reeve Foundation grew, the organization expanded its focus beyond research to include a wide range of support services for individuals living with paralysis. The Foundation recognized that while the search for a cure was essential, it was equally important to address the immediate needs of those affected by spinal cord injuries. This led to the development of several key programs and initiatives designed to improve the quality of life for individuals living with paralysis.

One of the most significant developments during this period was the creation of the Paralysis Resource Center (PRC). The PRC was established as a comprehensive resource hub for individuals with paralysis, offering information, support, and referrals to local resources. The Center quickly became an invaluable resource for individuals with spinal cord injuries and their families, providing them with the tools and information they needed to navigate the challenges of living with paralysis.

The Reeve Foundation also expanded its advocacy efforts, working to influence public policy at the local, state, and national levels. The Foundation’s advocacy work focused on promoting policies that supported individuals with paralysis, including access to healthcare, rehabilitation services, and disability rights. These efforts helped to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals living with spinal cord injuries.

The Mission and Core Values of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation

Curing Spinal Cord Injury: Advancing Innovative Research

At the heart of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation’s mission is a commitment to curing spinal cord injury through innovative research. The Foundation believes that a cure for paralysis is not only possible but within reach, and it is dedicated to funding the cutting-edge research necessary to achieve this goal.

The Reeve Foundation’s research efforts are focused on three key areas: neuroprotection, regeneration, and functional recovery. Neuroprotection aims to prevent further damage to the spinal cord following an injury, while regeneration focuses on repairing damaged nerve cells and promoting the growth of new ones. Functional recovery seeks to restore movement and sensation to individuals with spinal cord injuries by retraining the nervous system and developing assistive technologies.

The Foundation’s research program is designed to be flexible and responsive to new developments in the field. The organization regularly reviews its research priorities and adjusts its funding strategies to ensure that it is supporting the most promising and innovative projects. The Reeve Foundation’s commitment to research is driven by the belief that scientific advancements have the power to transform lives and that a cure for paralysis is within reach.

Improving Quality of Life: Providing Comprehensive Support Services

In addition to its research efforts, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals living with paralysis. The Foundation recognizes that living with paralysis presents significant challenges, and it is committed to providing the resources, support, and advocacy needed to help individuals with spinal cord injuries lead full, independent lives.

The Foundation’s quality of life initiatives are designed to address the physical, emotional, and practical needs of individuals with paralysis. These initiatives include the Paralysis Resource Center, the NeuroRecovery Network, and a wide range of support programs that provide individuals with paralysis and their families with the tools and resources they need to navigate the challenges they face.

The Reeve Foundation’s focus on improving quality of life is rooted in the belief that individuals with paralysis deserve the same opportunities as everyone else to live fulfilling, productive lives. The Foundation’s programs and services are designed to empower individuals with paralysis to take control of their lives, to build resilience, and to achieve their personal goals.

Advocating for the Paralysis Community: Influencing Public Policy

Advocacy is a core component of the Reeve Foundation’s mission. The organization works to influence public policy at the local, state, and national levels, advocating for policies that support individuals with spinal cord injuries and their families. The Reeve Foundation’s advocacy efforts are focused on ensuring that individuals with paralysis have access to the care, services, and support they need to live full, independent lives.

The Foundation’s advocacy work includes efforts to secure funding for spinal cord injury research, to promote access to healthcare and rehabilitation services, and to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities. The Reeve Foundation also works to raise public awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with paralysis and to promote a more inclusive and supportive society.

The Reeve Foundation’s commitment to advocacy is driven by the belief that individuals with paralysis deserve to have their voices heard and their needs met. The organization’s advocacy efforts are focused on creating a world where individuals with spinal cord injuries have the same rights, opportunities, and quality of life as everyone else.

Fostering a Supportive and Inclusive Community

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive community for individuals with paralysis and their families. The Foundation believes that no one should have to face the challenges of living with paralysis alone, and it works to create a community where individuals with spinal cord injuries can connect with one another, share their experiences, and find support.

The Foundation’s community-building efforts include support groups, educational events, and online forums that provide individuals with paralysis and their families with a safe and supportive space to connect with others who understand what they are going through. The Reeve Foundation also works to engage the broader community in its mission, encouraging individuals, businesses, and organizations to get involved in the fight against spinal cord injury.

The Reeve Foundation’s focus on community-building is rooted in the belief that individuals with paralysis deserve to be fully included in all aspects of society. The organization’s efforts to foster a supportive and inclusive community are designed to reduce feelings of isolation, to promote mental and emotional well-being, and to empower individuals with paralysis to live full, independent lives.

Key Programs and Services of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation

The Paralysis Resource Center: A Comprehensive Resource for Individuals with Paralysis

The Paralysis Resource Center (PRC) is one of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation’s flagship initiatives, providing a wide range of resources, support services, and referrals to individuals with paralysis, their families, and healthcare providers. The PRC is designed to be a one-stop shop for individuals with paralysis, offering them access to the information and resources they need to live independently and thrive.

What the Paralysis Resource Center Offers

The Paralysis Resource Center offers a comprehensive range of resources, including educational materials on spinal cord injury, rehabilitation, and assistive technology; information on healthcare and insurance options; and referrals to local support services and resources. The PRC also provides individualized support and guidance to individuals with paralysis, helping them navigate the challenges they face and access the resources they need.

The PRC’s educational materials are designed to be accessible and informative, offering practical advice and information that individuals with paralysis can use to make informed decisions about their care. The PRC also offers online resources, including webinars, podcasts, and articles, that provide up-to-date information on a wide range of topics related to spinal cord injury and paralysis.

Impact of the Paralysis Resource Center

The Paralysis Resource Center has had a profound impact on the lives of individuals with paralysis and their families. The PRC’s comprehensive range of resources and support services has helped countless individuals navigate the challenges of living with paralysis and access the care and support they need. The PRC’s emphasis on providing accurate, up-to-date information has also helped to empower individuals with paralysis to take control of their lives and to advocate for their needs.

The NeuroRecovery Network: Specialized Rehabilitation for Spinal Cord Injury

The NeuroRecovery Network (NRN) is another key initiative of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, offering specialized rehabilitation programs for individuals with spinal cord injuries. The NRN is designed to promote functional recovery and to help individuals with paralysis regain movement and sensation.

What the NeuroRecovery Network Offers

The NeuroRecovery Network offers a range of specialized rehabilitation programs that are designed to promote neuroplasticity and to retrain the nervous system. These programs include activity-based therapies, locomotor training, and functional electrical stimulation, all of which are aimed at improving movement, sensation, and overall quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries.

The NRN’s rehabilitation programs are offered at a network of facilities across the United States, each of which is staffed by trained professionals who specialize in spinal cord injury rehabilitation. The programs are tailored to meet the individual needs of each participant, with a focus on promoting functional recovery and improving overall quality of life.

Impact of the NeuroRecovery Network

The NeuroRecovery Network has had a significant impact on the lives of individuals with spinal cord injuries. Participants report that the NRN’s rehabilitation programs have helped them to regain movement, improve their overall health, and achieve greater independence. The NRN’s emphasis on promoting functional recovery has also helped to restore hope and to demonstrate that recovery is possible, even after a spinal cord injury.

Quality of Life Grants Program: Supporting Community-Based Initiatives

The Quality of Life Grants Program is an initiative of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation that provides funding to nonprofit organizations that offer programs and services that improve the quality of life for individuals living with paralysis. The grants are awarded to organizations that provide a wide range of services, including adaptive sports, educational programs, support groups, and assistive technology.

What the Quality of Life Grants Program Offers

The Quality of Life Grants Program provides funding to nonprofit organizations that offer programs and services that enhance the quality of life for individuals living with paralysis. The grants are awarded to organizations that demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of individuals with paralysis and that offer innovative, community-based programs that address the unique needs of this population.

The Quality of Life Grants Program has awarded millions of dollars in grants to organizations across the United States, supporting a wide range of programs and services that help individuals with paralysis to live fuller, more independent lives. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis, with a focus on supporting programs that have a demonstrated impact on the lives of individuals with paralysis.

Impact of the Quality of Life Grants Program

The Quality of Life Grants Program has had a significant impact on the lives of individuals with paralysis and their families. The grants have supported a wide range of community-based programs that provide essential services and resources to individuals with paralysis, helping them to overcome the challenges they face and to achieve their goals. The Quality of Life Grants Program has also helped to raise awareness about the needs of individuals with paralysis and to promote greater investment in programs and services that support this population.

Advocacy and Public Policy: Raising the Voice of the Paralysis Community

Advocacy is a central component of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation’s mission, and the organization is dedicated to advocating for the rights and inclusion of individuals with paralysis. The Reeve Foundation works to influence public policy, raise public awareness, and educate policymakers and healthcare providers about the challenges faced by individuals with paralysis.

Public Policy Advocacy

The Reeve Foundation’s public policy advocacy efforts are focused on promoting policies that support individuals with spinal cord injuries and their families. The organization advocates for increased funding for spinal cord injury research, improved access to healthcare and rehabilitation services, and greater support for individuals with paralysis in the workplace. The Reeve Foundation’s advocacy efforts are conducted at the local, state, and national levels, and the organization works closely with policymakers to advance its policy goals.

One of the Reeve Foundation’s key advocacy priorities is ensuring that individuals with paralysis have access to the care and services they need. The organization advocates for policies that promote access to specialized medical care, support services, and disability-related accommodations. The Reeve Foundation also works to raise awareness about the importance of early intervention and rehabilitation, as well as the need for ongoing support and care for individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Raising Public Awareness

Raising public awareness about spinal cord injury and paralysis is another important component of the Reeve Foundation’s work. The organization works to educate the public about the challenges faced by individuals with paralysis and to promote greater understanding and acceptance of these conditions. The Reeve Foundation’s public awareness campaigns are designed to change public perceptions of paralysis and to highlight the strength, resilience, and achievements of individuals living with spinal cord injuries.

The Reeve Foundation’s public awareness efforts include events such as the Reeve Summit, which features a variety of activities and campaigns aimed at raising awareness about spinal cord injury and promoting support for the paralysis community. The organization also engages with the media, social media, and other platforms to share stories and information about spinal cord injury and to promote its mission.

Collaborating with Advocacy Groups

The Reeve Foundation collaborates with other disabled advocacy groups and nonprofit organizations to advance its advocacy goals and to amplify the voice of the paralysis community. The organization works with partners to develop and promote policies that support individuals with spinal cord injuries and their families, and to raise awareness about the challenges faced by this community.

The Reeve Foundation’s collaborations with advocacy groups allow the organization to leverage its resources and to have a greater impact on public policy and public awareness. These partnerships are critical to advancing the Reeve Foundation’s mission and to improving the lives of individuals with paralysis.

Educational Resources and Support Programs

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is committed to providing individuals with paralysis and their families with the information and support they need to navigate the challenges of living with spinal cord injury. The organization offers a wide range of educational resources, support programs, and services designed to empower individuals and families and to help them live fuller, more independent lives.

Educational Resources

The Reeve Foundation provides a wealth of educational resources to individuals with paralysis, their families, and healthcare providers. These resources include guides on specific aspects of spinal cord injury, information on treatment options and rehabilitation, and tips for managing daily life with paralysis. The Reeve Foundation’s educational resources are designed to be accessible and informative, offering practical advice and information that individuals and families can use to make informed decisions about their care.

In addition to its printed and online resources, the Reeve Foundation offers educational webinars and workshops on a wide range of topics related to spinal cord injury and paralysis. These events provide individuals with paralysis, their families, and healthcare providers with up-to-date information on the latest research, treatments, and best practices in spinal cord injury care.

Support Programs

The Reeve Foundation’s support programs are designed to provide individuals with paralysis and their families with the support they need to navigate the challenges of living with spinal cord injury. The organization offers a wide range of support services, including peer support groups, counseling services, and assistance with accessing community resources.

The Reeve Foundation’s support programs are focused on empowering individuals with paralysis to live as independently as possible and on providing families with the tools and resources they need to care for their loved ones. The organization’s support programs are designed to be flexible and responsive to the needs of individuals and families, offering a wide range of services and resources that can be tailored to meet their unique needs.

Peer Support Networks

The Reeve Foundation’s peer support networks provide individuals with paralysis and their families with the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences. These networks offer a valuable source of emotional support, practical advice, and encouragement, helping individuals and families feel less isolated and more empowered.

The Reeve Foundation’s peer support networks include both in-person and online support groups, as well as opportunities for individuals and families to connect with one another through social media and other platforms. These networks provide a sense of community and belonging, giving individuals and families the opportunity to share their experiences, learn from one another, and build lasting relationships.

The Impact of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation on the Paralysis Community

Advancing Research and Improving Outcomes

One of the most significant impacts of the Reeve Foundation’s work has been its role in advancing research on spinal cord injury and improving outcomes for individuals with paralysis. The Foundation’s research funding and collaborations have led to significant breakthroughs in the understanding and treatment of spinal cord injury, including the development of new therapies that have transformed the lives of individuals with paralysis.

The Reeve Foundation’s research efforts have also helped to improve the quality of life for individuals with paralysis by advancing the development of treatments and therapies that address the symptoms and complications of spinal cord injury. The organization’s support for clinical trials has been critical to bringing new treatments to market, and its commitment to research continues to drive progress in the field of spinal cord injury care.

Providing Comprehensive Care and Support

The Reeve Foundation’s commitment to providing comprehensive, multidisciplinary care to individuals with paralysis has had a profound impact on the lives of patients and their families. The organization’s Paralysis Resource Center and other support services have made it possible for individuals with paralysis to access specialized care that addresses all aspects of their condition, from diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation and long-term management.

In addition to its medical care programs, the Reeve Foundation’s support services have provided individuals with paralysis and their families with the resources and support they need to navigate the challenges of living with spinal cord injury. The Reeve Foundation’s educational resources, peer support networks, and counseling services have empowered individuals and families to take control of their care and to live fuller, more independent lives.

Changing Public Perceptions and Raising Awareness

Through its public awareness campaigns and advocacy efforts, the Reeve Foundation has helped to change public perceptions of spinal cord injury and to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with paralysis. The organization’s efforts have helped to promote greater understanding and acceptance of individuals with spinal cord injuries and to highlight the strength, resilience, and achievements of this community.

The Reeve Foundation’s public awareness campaigns have also helped to raise the profile of spinal cord injury and to promote greater investment in research and care. The organization’s events, such as the Reeve Summit, have played a significant role in raising funds and awareness for spinal cord injury and have brought the challenges faced by individuals with paralysis to the forefront of public consciousness.

Building a Strong and Supportive Community

The Reeve Foundation has played a vital role in building a strong and supportive community for individuals with paralysis and their families. The organization’s support programs, peer support networks, and community-building initiatives have helped to foster a sense of belonging and connection among individuals with paralysis, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting mental and emotional well-being.

The Reeve Foundation’s community-building efforts have also helped to create a network of support for individuals with paralysis and their families, helping them to navigate the challenges of living with spinal cord injury and to achieve their goals. The organization’s commitment to fostering a sense of community is reflected in everything it does, from its research and care programs to its advocacy and public awareness efforts.

Influencing Public Policy and Advancing Disability Rights

The Reeve Foundation’s advocacy work has had a significant impact on public policy and the rights of individuals with paralysis. The organization’s efforts to influence legislation and policy have led to increased funding for spinal cord injury research, improved access to healthcare, and greater support for individuals with paralysis and their families.

The Reeve Foundation’s advocacy efforts have also played a critical role in promoting disability rights and inclusion. The organization’s work to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with spinal cord injuries has helped to promote greater understanding and acceptance of these conditions and to ensure that individuals with paralysis have access to the services and support they need to live full, independent lives.

The Future of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation

Strategic Goals and Vision for the Future

As the Reeve Foundation looks to the future, the organization remains committed to its mission of curing spinal cord injury and improving the quality of life for individuals living with paralysis. The Reeve Foundation’s strategic goals for the future include expanding its research efforts, increasing its impact through collaboration and partnerships, and continuing to provide high-quality programs and services to individuals with paralysis and their families.

The Reeve Foundation’s vision for the future is one where all individuals with paralysis have access to the best possible care, treatments, and support, and where spinal cord injury is no longer a life sentence. The organization is committed to advancing research, improving care, and fostering a supportive community for individuals with paralysis.

Addressing Emerging Challenges and Opportunities

The Reeve Foundation is focused on addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in the field of spinal cord injury. These include the rapid pace of technological change, the evolving healthcare landscape, and the increasing demand for accessible and inclusive services. The Reeve Foundation is committed to staying at the forefront of these developments and ensuring that individuals with paralysis have access to the resources and support they need to navigate these changes and to thrive in an increasingly complex world.

Expanding Community Outreach and Support

The Reeve Foundation is dedicated to expanding its community outreach and support efforts, with the goal of reaching more individuals with paralysis and their families. The organization plans to continue growing its network of support programs, expanding its educational programs, and developing new resources and initiatives that meet the needs of the diverse paralysis community. The Reeve Foundation’s outreach efforts are focused on building a strong and connected community that can advocate for its rights and interests.

Continuing to Influence Public Policy

The Reeve Foundation will continue to play a leading role in influencing public policy that affects individuals with paralysis. The organization is committed to advocating for laws and policies that protect the rights of individuals with spinal cord injuries, promote access to care, and ensure that individuals with paralysis have the resources and support they need to live full, independent lives. The Reeve Foundation’s policy work will continue to focus on areas such as healthcare, research funding, disability rights, and access to services.

Supporting the Next Generation of Advocates and Researchers

One of the Reeve Foundation’s key priorities for the future is supporting the next generation of advocates and researchers in the field of spinal cord injury. The organization is committed to providing young researchers and advocates with the tools, resources, and support they need to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals with paralysis.

The Reeve Foundation plans to expand its training programs, mentorship opportunities, and leadership development initiatives to ensure that the next generation of spinal cord injury advocates and researchers is prepared to carry on the work of the organization and to continue advancing the field.

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation has made a profound impact on the lives of individuals with paralysis and their families since its founding in 1999. Through its research, support programs, advocacy efforts, and commitment to raising public awareness, the Reeve Foundation has empowered individuals with paralysis to live fuller, more independent lives and has ensured that their rights and needs are recognized and respected.

The organization’s work has helped to advance scientific understanding of spinal cord injury, improve access to care, and create a more inclusive and supportive society for individuals with paralysis. The Reeve Foundation’s ongoing efforts will continue to play a crucial role in shaping public policy, advancing research and treatment, and providing essential support to individuals with spinal cord injuries and their families.

As the Reeve Foundation looks to the future, it remains dedicated to its mission of curing spinal cord injury and to continuing its work as a leader in the fight against paralysis. The organization’s ongoing efforts will continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with paralysis for years to come, as it works towards a world where spinal cord injury is no longer a life sentence.