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Top Stories

Voting Opens for Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame

Voting for the current class of nominees into the Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame will be open through 5 p.m. Eastern Time, March 31. NSCIA members will choose the Hall of Fame Inductees in each of 17 categories through online voting. Formed by National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) in 2005, the SCI Hall of Fame celebrates and honors individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to quality of life and advancements toward a better future for all individuals with spinal cord injury. While you must be an NSCIA member to vote, individual membership is free and open to anyone with an interest in the SCI/D community. Click here to vote. [full story]

New Web Site Offers Voice for People with Paralysis

Got something to say about public policy? Spinal cord advocates, or anyone living with paralysis can share their thoughts (and read what others have to say) at a new consumer website dedicated to grassroots advocacy on issues that affect people with spinal cord Injury and disorders. The site, www.spinalcordadvocates.org, is a product of the unique collaboration between two of the nation’s leading nonprofit membership organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life of all Americans with spinal cord injuries and disorders -- National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) and United Spinal Association.
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Make Sure Your Medicare Equipment and Supplies Get Paid For

Do you have a prescription for durable medical equipment? Then be sure your physician has recently enrolled in the Medicare internet based PECOS system or Medicare will not pay for the items and instead you could be held financially liable.  Learn more about this and other policies that impact your life at http://www.spinalcordadvocates.org/. [full story]

Soul Singer and SCI Hall of Fame Member Teddy Pendergrass Dies

Spinal Cord Injury Hall of Fame member Teddy Pendergrass died Wednesday at age 59. Pendergrass was inducted in 2005 when NSCIA founded the SCI Hall of Fame to recognize and honor those making outstanding contributions to the quality of life for people living with spinal cord injury and disease. He returned to in 2006 to welcome Congressman James Langevin into the SCI Hall of Fame. The world knew Teddy as a true legend through his performances," said K. Eric Larson, executive director and CEO of NSCIA, "but we knew him for much more because of his commitment to using his celebrity and talent to benefit people living with spinal cord injury and disease. It was an honor to know and work with him."

Online Survey on Wheelchair Purchase and Satisfaction Extended through January

The online survey at www.spinalcord.org/survey  gives wheelchair users the chance to help consumer groups and policy makers better understand and document the wheelchair selection and purchase experience.

Discounted Rates on Key Insurance Products Available to NSCIA Members

Accessible, affordable and quality housing and transportation are essential to independent living, economic self-sufficiency, and full participation. NSCIA is proud to announce a new partnership with 54Freedom and Unitrin Direct® preferred insurance to offer NSCIA members affordable, quality homeowner, renter and auto insurance.* [full story]

Less Than One Full Week Left for 2009 SCI Hall of Fame Nominations

Nominations for the 2009 Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame are being accepted now through December 31, 2009. Anyone is eligible to  nominate candidates online in any one or more of 17 available categories. Nominations will be vetted and confirmed for completeness and accuracy, and then NSCIA members will choose the 2009 Hall of Fame Inductees in each category through an online voting process. Finalists will be reviewed by a Hall of Fame Selection Committee before the final inductees are announced. [full story]

Unique Opportunity to be a Spinal Cord Advocate

Have you or a loved one been denied complex rehab equipment that would enable a healthier, happier and higher quality of life? Did you know your government is providing reimbursement based on which equipment they think is best for you? Their decisions are not based on what actually is best for your unique medical needs. So basically - you are getting rehab equipment - but what the government feels is appropriate for you. Not what is really best for you to live an independent healthy lifestyle. [full story]

Major Disability Provision in Jeopardy of Being Cut from Healthcare Reform Bill

Would cash benefits help you live at home or seek or continue employment?  If so, share your story and make a difference! [full story]

SCI Hall of Famer and Paralympian Dies

Paralympic athlete and Spinal Cord Injury Hall of Fame member, Randy Snow, 50, has passed away. Found in on November 19 by his friend and tennis coach, Bill Hammett, Snow had been in El Salvador teaching tennis. During his career, Snow won medals in basketball, track, and tennis and competed in four Paralympics. He was the first Paralympian inducted into the Olympic Hall of Fame.

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New Resources Announced on H1N1 for Children and Adults with Disabilities

New resources on H1N1 for children and adults with disabilities have been announced from the US Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Disability and the Centers for Disease Control. Persons with Disabilities and the Flu is available here. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently published 2009 H1N1 Flu Information for People with Disabilities and their Caregivers or Personal Assistants. [full story]

Major Reform Battle Won in House

On Saturday, November 7, the House of Representatives narrowly passed Health Care Reform legislation, winning a major battle for health care reformers and people with disabilities. Why is this good news for people with disabilities? Visit Spinal Cord Advocates to find out. [full story]

President Announces New Initiatives During Disability Employment Awareness Month

Washington, D.C. - President Obama today announced that his administration is taking several steps to ensure that there is fair and equal access to employment for all Americans, particularly the 54 million people in this country living with disabilities. The announcement comes during National Disability Employment Awareness Month.Washington, D.C. - President Obama today announced that his administration is taking several steps to ensure that there is fair and equal access to employment for all Americans, particularly the 54 million people in this country living with disabilities. The announcement comes during National Disability Employment Awareness Month. [full story]

President Obama Proclaims October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month

In proclaiming October 2009, as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, President Obama called upon all Americans to celebrate the contributions of individuals with disabilities to our workplaces and communities, and to promote the employment of individuals with disabilities to create a better, more inclusive America, one in which every person is rightly recognized for his or her abilities and accomplishments. Read the full story for complete text of the proclamation. [full story]

SPINAL CORD CENTRAL is New Resource for People Living with Paralysis

Rockville MD - National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) and United Spinal Association are proud to announce the launching of SPINAL CORD CENTRAL , a new web-based resource on all things related to paralysis.Operated jointly by both founding organizations, SPINAL CORD CENTRAL is the destination for members of the spinal cord injury/disease (SCI/D) community who are seeking information and resource referrals related to SCI/D. [full story]

Let Your Voice be Heard – Act Today!

The Senate Finance Committee will hold a crucial vote on the public option in health care reform on Tuesday, September 29. It is important that your Senators hear from you on this important issue. A "public option" would be an opportunity for people to buy into a government run health insurance plan that would compete with private health insurance in an insurance exchange (where individuals and small businesses could purchase health insurance). Take action now! [full story]

Don't Miss SCILife!

If you haven't read the most recent issue of SCILife, you don't know what you're missing! The official member publication of NSCIA,  is written specifically for people living with, or working in the field of, SCI/D.  SCILife  is filled with issue-driven articles, and news of interest to the SCI/D community and the larger disability community. All NSCIA members receive free access to SCILife and SCI e-news online in HTML, PDF and Flash formats. Not a member? Join today!   While you'll get occasional issues of SCILife in the mail as part of your free membership, members wishing to receive a printed copy of ALL ISSUES of SCILife by U.S. mail need to purchase an affordable $15  subscription for six issues to cover the cost of mailing. 

Launch of Revamped Web Site Coincides with ADA Anniversary

Disability.gov offers social media tools, upgrades to complement information from 22 federal agencies on disability-related programs and services

WASHINGTON, DC -- In conjunction with the 19th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the U.S. Department of Labor has re-named and re-launched DisabilityInfo.gov as Disability.gov.  The site offers comprehensive information about programs and services to better serve more than 50 million Americans with disabilities, their family members, veterans, employers, educators, caregivers and anyone interested in disability-related information. 

Support Health Care Reform: Make a Call Today!

How important is health care reform to you? National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) believes that national health care reform is important for all Americans.  There is presently a great amount of political activity on this vital issue. The House and Senate are currently debating health care reform so action on your part is required immediately. Now more than ever, your voice is needed. We urge you to call your Senators and Representative and tell them to support national health care reform now. Toll free call in number and instructions are at the end of this article.

Reason for Celebration

From The Record / NorthJersey.Com

For many Americans, our nation's birthday comes at a time of genuine despair. Families are hurting. Soldiers are dying. Small businesses are closing. Viruses are spreading. And our all-too-dangerous world seems to be giving rise to an all-too-uncertain future.  In other words, for many of us, Saturday's barbecues and fireworks are set to take place against a backdrop of great consternation - personal as well as national. Yet, despite these challenges, Americans have reason to celebrate, and we have reason to greet this Independence Day with the same sense of hope and optimism on which this country was founded 233 years ago.

Senators Urgently Need to Hear that You Support Health Care Reform -- Make Free Calls Today

People with all types of disabilities need to be heard now to make sure that comprehensive health reform legislation is enacted this year.  All Americans need access to quality, affordable health care, as well as long term services and supports.  According to a 2008 National Center for Health Statistics report, approximately 19% of non-institutionalized adults with mobility, sensory, and cognitive disabilities and mental illnesses and 17% of people with complex disabilities (such as those that limit self-care, work, or social or leisure activities) reported having no health insurance. Even people with health insurance are often forced into bankruptcy by medical costs. Read more to see how you can make a difference. [full story]

White House Creates Office of Olympic, Paralympic and Youth Sport

President Barack Obama has announced the formation of the White House Office of Olympic, Paralympic and Youth Sport.  This permanent White House office will promote the values of the Olympic Movement and encourage increased youth participation in athletics.  The primary function of the Office will be to enhance awareness of the Olympic Movement through promotion of its fundamental principles at the federal level.   [full story]

NSCIA Urges FCC to Pursue National Broadband Strategy

Increased Broadband Access Critical to People with Disabilities

The National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) urged the FCC to pursue a policy that increases broadband access and usage.  NSCIA made the comments in its June 8 filing for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) notice of inquiry on broadband policy.

Help Ensure Long-Term Services and Supports are Included in Health Care Reform

Make Your Voice Heard on National Call-in-Day Wednesday, May 13th

In coming weeks, the Senate will finalize legislation to reform America's health care system. Long-term services and supports based in the home and community are essential to individuals with disabilities and seniors and must be included in health care reform, and you can help make sure legislators hear that message by joining in National Call-in-Day Wednesday, May 13^th. [full story]

April 29 is Community Choice Act Day

Disability and Labor Advocates Unite!

On Wednesday, April 29, join the fight to pass the Community Choice Act (CCA)! Whether you are in Washington, DC, or around the United States, your help is needed. ADAPT, SEIU and NCIL with the support of Philadelphia-area Local 1199C are working together for a historic march and lobby day to pass the CCA!

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NSCIA Communications Associate Named Ms. Wheelchair NJ

Ms. Wheelchair America Pageant to Be Held in South Dakota in August

Santina Muha, NSCIA's Communication Associate since July of 2006, was named Ms. Wheelchair New Jersey 2009 this past Friday, April 17. She competed via online application for the title, and was chosen as an independent delegate for the state. Muha will represent New Jersey at the national competition this August.
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Spinal Cord Leaders Council Celebrates Signing of Reeve Paralysis Act; Pledges Continued Support

April 6, 2009 - The signing into law of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act this week is a major landmark for all Americans living with spinal cord injuries or disorders (SCI/D), and for the SCI/D community as a whole. After years in the making, the bill was passed by the U.S. Senate on January 15 and the House of Representatives on March 25 and signed into law by President Obama on March 30.

"We applaud the efforts of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation in leading the effort on this bill, as well as the contributions of a wide range of organizations and individuals in supporting the bill over the past several years," said Paul J. Tobin, chair of the Spinal Cord Leaders Council ("the Council") and president/CEO of United Spinal Association.

Support Access to e-books for People with Disabilities

As part of its role in the Reading Rights Coalition, NSCIA is engaged in a campaign to obtain access for people with print disabilities to e-books available for Amazon's new Kindle 2 e-book reader. The new reader, which Amazon is working to make fully accessible, has the ability to use text-to-speech to read these e-books aloud; but under pressure from the Authors Guild, Amazon has announced that authors and publishers will be allowed to disable the text-to-speech function.  Please read and sign the petition.  [full story]

NSCIA Joins Reading Rights Coalition in Urging Authors to Allow Everyone Access to E-books

Informational Protest to be Held at Authors Guild Headquarters

New York City (March 30, 2009): The Reading Rights Coalition, which represents people who cannot read print, will protest the threatened removal of the text-to-speech function from e-books for the Amazon Kindle 2 outside the Authors Guild headquarters in New York City at 31 East 32nd Street on April 7, 2009, from noon to 2:00 p.m.  The coalition includes the blind, people with dyslexia, people with learning or processing issues, seniors losing vision, people with spinal cord injuries and disease, people recovering from strokes, and many others for whom the addition of text-to-speech on the Kindle 2 promised for the first time easy, mainstream access to over 255,000 books. [full story]

President signs Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act into law

March 30, 2009 -- President Barack Obama signed the Omnibus Public Lands Bill, which contains the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act. The bill was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on March 25 and the U.S. Senate on January 15. National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) was a staunch supporter of this landmark legislation, independently and through the Spinal Cord Leaders Council. NSCIA's hope is that the act will promote collaborative research, rehabilitation and quality of life initiatives for millions of Americans living with paralysis and spinal cord injuries and disease. Video of the signing is available at C-Span. [full story]

Important Update on SCILife

SCILife,the bi-monthly publication of NSCIA,  is distributed to thousands of people living with, or working in the field of, SCI/D. SCILife  is filled with issue-driven articles, and news of interest to the SCI/D community and the larger disability community. Beginning with the January/February 2009 issue, members wishing to receive a printed copy of  SCILife by U.S. mail need to purchase an affordable $15  subscription for six issues to cover the cost of mailing. 

Letter of Intent Deadline for Neilsen Foundation Approaches

Tuesday, March 31, is the deadline for letters of intent to apply for funding through The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation Program Grants, which help organizations improve the quality of life for those living with a spinal cord injury/disease in the United States and Canada.  These grants are awarded to qualifying nonprofit (501.c.3) organizations that provide innovative rehabilitation, independent living, recreation and sports, education grants and Physical Medicine and Rehab Fellowships (specializing in SCI training only).

NSCIA Helps to Launch Mount Sinai SCI Health and Wellness Series

The SCI Health and Wellness Series, a series of seven web-based videos on living well and healthy after SCI, is now available. The series was created by the Mount Sinai Department of Rehabilitation Medicine in New York through a grant from the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation, under the supervision of Mary Hibbard, Ph.D. and in collaboration with NSCIA and its chapter affiliates. [full story]

Top White House Aide Talks Disability Policy

Disability Scoop interviews Kareen Dale, special assistant to the president for disability policy

In February Vice President Joe Biden announced the selection of Kareem Dale as the first ever special assistant to the president for disability policy. Now, in an exclusive interview with Disability Scoop, Dale defends the president following his misstep on The Tonight Show last week and talks about what's next in the administration's plans for people with disabilities.
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Reeve Paralysis Act Passes House

March 25, 2009 -- Earlier today, the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act as Title XIV of H.R. 146, the Omnibus Public Land Management Bill. The bill will soon be sent to the White House for the President's signature. [full story]

NSCIA Emerging Leader nominee Patrick Ivison Appearing on Today Show

Patrick Ivison, NSCIA's youngest Emerging Leader nominee, will be profiled on NBC's Today Show on Wednesday, March 25.  [full story]

Harkin, Davis Set to Introduce ADAPT's Community Choice Act on March 24

Washington, D.C.---With thousands of people across the country listening in by phone, Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Rep. Danny Davis (D-IL) will introduce the Community Choice Act (CCA) in both houses of Congress on March 24. The CCA will allow people with disabilities and older people to choose to stay in their own homes and communities with attendant care instead of being forced into nursing homes and other institutions by the current institutional bias in Medicaid. Both President Obama and Vice President Biden were CCA co-sponsors during their years in the Senate.
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President Obama Overturns Bush Stem Cell Restrictions

Signs Stem Cell Executive Order and Scientific Integrity Presidential Memorandum

March 9, 2009, Washington, DC -- President Obama signed an executive order today repealing a Bush-era policy that limited federal tax dollars for embryonic stem cell research.

"Today, with the Executive Order I am about to sign, we will bring the change that so many scientists and researchers; doctors and innovators; patients and loved ones have hoped for, and fought for, these past eight years," said Obama.

SCI Hall of Fame Member Robin Williams Reportedly in Intensive Care

It was reported today that comedian and actor Robin Williams was admitted to the intensive care unit of a Florida hospital for treatment of heart problems. Late last year, Williams was inducted into the Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame in the Entertainment category for his efforts in supporting SCI since the injury and passing of friend Christopher Reeve.  [full story]

Economic Stimulus: Documenting Impact

The Obama administration has asked NSCIA and other leading consumer organizations representing people with disabilities to help identify persons with a disability that have gone to work or been rehired as a result of the economic recovery plan.  For example, a company hiring as a result of money they receive, or plan to receive. If you, or someone you know of, fits this description, please email elarson@spinalcord.org with a short summary and contact information for the person being hired.

Kareem Dale to Serve as Special Assistant to the President for Disability Policy

First Time a President has had a Special Assistant Focused Exclusively on Disability Policy

Vice President Joe Biden has announced Kareem Dale as Special Assistant to the President for Disability Policy. The Vice President, who was leading a Presidential Delegation at the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Boise, Idaho, this week made the announcement during a stop at the Special Olympics' Healthy Athletes Event, a worldwide program in which athletes receive a variety of health screenings and services.

NSCIA’s Santina Muha and ‘Professir X’ to be interviewed on Internet Radio Show Today

Zen Garcia of EndeavorFreedom.TV has started a new radio show through blog talk radio.com which addresses disability issues and stories, and on Thursday, February 12 at 2 pm EST, Santina Muha, NSCIA's Communication Associate and Richard Gaskin, aka Professir X, a longtime member and advocate for NSCIA will be interviewed about their recent media and advocacy work, and ongoing projects.
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Call Goes Out to Petition against Humanitarian Award for Jerry Lewis

A petition drive has been launched in response to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' announcement that it will give Jerry Lewis its Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the Oscar Awards ceremony on February 22, 2009. Many feel that, during his decades of hosting the Labor Day Telethon, Jerry Lewis has helped to perpetuate negative, stereotypical attitudes toward people with muscular dystrophy and other disabilities. Jerry Lewis and the Telethon actively promote pity as a fundraising strategy. Disabled people want RESPECT and RIGHTS, not pity and charity.

Consumer and Clinician Perspectives on Clearance for Clinical Trials of GRNOPC1 in Subjects with SCI

Earlier this week, the FDA gave Geron clearance to proceed with the first clinical trial using human embryonic stem cells.  What does this mean for patients with spinal cord injuries? Soon, a handful of patients with severe spinal cord injuries will be eligible for injections of specialized nerve cells designed to enable electrical signals to travel between the brain and the rest of the body. Andrew Schorr gets perspectives from renowned SCI expert Dr. David Chen and NSCIA President Patrick Maher, who has lived with a spinal cord injury for more than 25 years. Listen or download the interview here . [full story]

Geron Receives FDA Clearance to Begin World’s First Human Clinical Trial of Embryonic Stem Cell-Based Therapy

Geron to Study GRNOPC1 in Patients with Acute Spinal Cord Injury

MENLO PARK, Calif., January 23, 2009 - Geron Corporation (Nasdaq: GERN) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted clearance of the company's Investigational New Drug (IND) application for the clinical trial of GRNOPC1 in patients with acute spinal cord injury. The clearance enables Geron to move forward with the world's first study of a human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-based therapy in man. Geron plans to initiate a Phase I multi-center trial that is designed to establish the safety of GRNOPC1 in patients with "complete" American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grade A subacute thoracic spinal cord injuries. [full story]

Abilities Expo Expands to Four Cities in 2009 Offering More Opportunities to People with Disabilities and their Caregivers

NSCIA has announced it will continue its partnership with Abilities Expo, the one show dedicated to educating and improving the lives of Americans with disabilities, senior citizens, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, professional therapists and corporate ADA administrators. In 2009, Abilities Expo will hold four regional shows, each offering new ideas, new direction and new opportunities. [full story]

SCI Hall of Fame Inductee's Gridiron Heroes Presents the Exclusive Red-Carpet Premiere Of NBC's Friday Night Lights

The glitz and glamour of the red carpet is coming to San Antonio. 2007 Spinal Cord Injury Hall of Fame inductee in the Grassroots Organizer category Chris Canales' organization, Gridiron Heroes Spinal Cord Injury Foundation, announced it will host the Season Three Premiere of NBC's Friday Night Lights on Thursday, January 15th from 6-10 p.m. @ the Santikos Palladium IMAX. Members of the cast including Kyle Chandler, Brad Leland, Aimee Teagarden, and Liz Mikel will be among the special guests at this one-of-a-kind debut. A V.I.P. Celebrity Meet and Greet will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., prior to the screening. Following the debut, a special V.I.P. after party will take place beginning at 10 p.m. [full story]

NSCIA Helps Navigate CMS Rating System to Find Quality Living Alternatives

NSCIA Resource Center Information Specialists can help you find quality living alternatives when fully independent living is not possible. The new 1-5 star rating system developed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) helps shortcut families' searches for higher quality nursing home care where independent living is not an option. [full story]

New Studies Recruiting Patients with Overactive Bladder

Is an overactive bladder causing you to live an under-active life? If you have a spinal cord injury or have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and suffer from an overactive bladder, you may want to learn if you qualify for one of the Dignity Studies.

GIVE 60!

We're not asking for diamonds - but your gift can shine as brightly! Click here to make a donation and learn more about donating to NSCIA, including by mail. For 60 years, NSCIA has lead the way in maximizing the quality of life and opportunities for people with spinal cord injury or disease and their families. The "Give 60" campaign reminds us all of the hard work it has taken to get our community where it is and that there is still hard work to be done. [full story]

Consider a Year End Gift to NSCIA

Please consider making a year-end donation now to support NSCIA. We need your help to keep individual membership free and to keep fulfilling our mission of enabling nearly one million people with SCI/D to achieve the highest possible quality of life. Your gift really does make a difference!

Just click here to donate online . You can also donate by check made payable to: NSCIA, One Church St., Ste. 600, Rockville, MD 20850. 

Independence Technology L.L.C. to Stop Selling iBOT® Mobility System in January 2009

Independence Technology L.L.C. has announced that it will cease sales and marketing of the iBOT® Mobility System in January 2009. The company says it remains committed to provide technical support and service to iBOT® Mobility System owners through the end of 2013, at which time the company expects to close. Current iBOT owners can call the Technical Support Center in the U.S. at (800) 463-3669 and in the U.K. at 0800 404-9605 anytime they have a question or require service for their device.

Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré Calls for Americans to Make Emergency Preparedness “as Important as Football”

Rockville, MD -- "You shouldn't be able to turn on a T.V.... and not hear about (emergency) preparation," said Lt. General Russel Honoré (U.S. Army - Retired). "We need to make preparedness as important as football. Football won't save your life, preparedness will."
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Dine with Dignity during the Holidays

And other great gifts from the NSCIA online store

The holidays are coming up, and that means great food. For those who have grasp impairment, visit the NSCIA online store and purchase Dining with Dignity Specialty Flatware. This flatware's patented design enables those with grasp impairment to handle their fork, knife and spoon independently. So don't let anything slow you down at the dinner table this year. Buy yourself or your loved one a set of Dining with Dignity Specialty Flatware, or purchase a knife, spoon or fork separately. And remember, a purchase at the NSCIA online store supports the mission of NSCIA.
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NSCIA Annual Membership Meeting Scheduled for Monday, December 15

NSCIA will hold its Annual General Membership Meeting via teleconference at 4 pm Eastern Time, Monday, December 15. Agenda items include election of officers for the coming year, and a report on recent activities including the November meeting of the NSCIA Board of Directors in conjunction with the SCI Hall of Fame and Town Hall meeting in New Orleans.

SCI Hall of Fame Welcomes Class of 2008

The Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame class of 2008 was honored this past Monday, Nov. 17 at the 4th annual SCI Hall of Fame induction ceremony and gala at the Contemporary Arts Center in New Orleans, La.
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Last Chance to Register for 2008 SCI Hall of Fame Gala and Town Hall Meeting In New Orleans

National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) hosts the 4th annual Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame Gala and induction ceremony to the evening of November 17, at the Contemporary Art Center, 900 Camp Street, New Orleans, LA.  Building a Culture of Preparedness...Including Everyone, a town hall meeting on disaster preparedness and featuring a keynote address by Lt. Gen. Russel Honore (U.S. Army Ret.), Commander Joint Task Force Katrina, will now be held from 10:30 am to 2:30 p.m., on Tuesday, November 18, at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 300 Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA. Online registration is open and includes information on hotel rooms and local transportation.

Notice of NSCIA Annual General Membership Meeting

NSCIA will hold its Annual General Membership Meeting at 2 pm, Monday, November 17, at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 300 Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA., in conjunction with the 2008 Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame^TM and a meeting of the Board of Directors. The general meeting is open to all NSCIA members in good standing. Nominations for election to the board of directors may be made by any member of NSCIA and should be forwarded in writing to elarson@spinalcord.org.
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SCI Hall of Fame Nominee Jim Hayes Jersey Retired

The jersey of one of The University of Texas at Arlington's true champions, the late Jim Hayes , was retired at a special ceremony Saturday, Nov. 8, at Texas Hall.

No. 11, the jersey of the Hayes, who was a 2007 SCI Hall of Fame nominee as well as founder and coach of the Movin' Mavs wheelchair basketball team, was retired during the last game of the first Jim Hayes Memorial Wheelchair Basketball Tournament.

Katrina General Pushes for Generator Law

Honoré says Gustav highlighted the need

Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré, a national proponent of disaster preparedness who commanded federal forces on the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina, is urging Louisiana to pass a law requiring pharmacies and gas stations to maintain generators for power outages. In a speech this week in Baton Rouge, Honoré said he had recommended mandates for generators after Katrina and that Hurricane Gustav in August proved once more the need for the Legislature to take action. (Note: Honoré will deliver the keynote address on November 18th in New Orleans at "Building a Culture of Preparedness ... Including Everyone", a first-of-its-kind national forum focused on the lessons learned from hurricane Katrina and how those lessons have [or have not] turned into action.)

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NSCIA-TV Interviews Voters about Disability during this Election

As part of her trip to the polls this week, NSCIA Communications Associate Santina Muha brought her interviewing skills and a video camera on behalf of NSCIA-TV and spoke with voters in Branchburg, NJ about the issues that were most important to them in this election. Specifically, Muha asked whether or not disability issues were a factor for them when voting. The economy was the most common response when asked what issues helped determine a vote. When asked about the importance and quality of disability coverage during this election, answers varied as each individual had a different level of connection with disability. For some, it was very important while others had not considered such issues at all.
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President-elect Obama Includes “People with Disabilities” in Speech

Rockville, MD, November 5, 2008 - President-elect Barack Obama made history last night not only by becoming the first person of color to be elected to our nation's highest post, he also specifically mentioned "people with disabilities" in his acceptance speech.

November 4 is Election Day – No Excuses

More people plan to vote today than will actually do so. How many times do you hear from friends or family the day after election day that they somehow couldn't make it to the polls? Or they forgot? Or couldn't find it? So to help you out and to get our community voting in force, we've put together a few resources to put the excuses to rest.

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Marine Corps Marathon a Success for Team NSCIA Members

Team NSCIA members Andy Hicks and Bill Fertig both successfully completed the 2008 Marine Corps Marathon on Sunday, October 26 to raise funds to help the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) continue to fulfill our mission of enabling people with spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D) to achieve their highest level of independence, health, and personal fulfillment by providing resources, services, and peer support.
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NSCIA Releases Names of 2008 SCI Hall of Fame Inductees

The Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame class of 2008 will be honored next month at what has become NSCIA’s most anticipated and celebrated annual event, the SCI Hall of Fame induction ceremony and gala, on November 17 at the Contemporary Arts Center in New Orleans, La. [full story]

Team NSCIA Takes on the Marine Corp Marathon Sunday

Still time to support the team!

Now is the time to visit Team NSCIA and support members Andy Hicks (right) and Bill Fertig (left) as they run and roll in the 2008 Marine Corps Marathon on Sunday, October 26 to raise funds to help the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) continue to fulfill our mission of enabling people with spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D) to achieve their highest level of independence, health, and personal fulfillment by providing resources, services, and peer support.

NSCIA Names K. Eric Larson as Executive Director and CEO

Rockville, MD - "We are pleased to announce that K. Eric Larson has been named Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer for National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA)," said Patrick Maher, president of NSCIA's board of directors.
[full story]

NSCIA Member and SCI Hall of Fame Nominee CNN iReport Film Festival Semi-Finalist

Voting closes today

Oct. 22 -- NSCIA member and SCI Hall of Fame nominee Professir X (Richard Gaskin) has been selected as a semi-finalist in CNN’s iReport film festival. Voting is open through midnight tonight at http://www.cnn.com/ireportfilmfestival. Professir X’s video submission is visible by the icon of a young man with his fist in the air in front of the nation’s capital, and is entitled “Obama for Cure”. To vote for Professir X, drag this icon into the first slot available, followed by the remaining 19 choices in whichever order you choose. After each slot has been filled in, click ‘submit’ on the bottom of the page. Registration is not necessary for voting.

Senate to Consider Reeve Paralysis Bill Today: Call Your Senators Right Away!

Monday, September 29, 2008 -- Today, Senator Tom Harkin plans to ask the Senate again to consider the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act (CDRPA) before Congress adjourns. The House or Representatives has passed the paralysis bill twice -- first, in 2006 when the Republicans were in the majority; and, most recently, last October under the Democratic leadership of Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA). The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee unanimously approved the paralysis bill in August, 2007. NOW, it is time for the full Senate to act!

Please call your Senators today! Call your friends and ask them to make calls also!

NSCIA Member and Staff Member to be Featured on CNN International

CNN International's half-hour program, "i-Report for CNN," will include work by NSCIA's Santina Muha and SCI Hall of Fame nominee and NSCIA member Professir X this Saturday September 27th, and re-airing through Monday. This week the program is showcasing i-Reporters who are doing their part to make the world a better place. And CNN International is highlighting some of the best i-reports they have received from around the globe.
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Senate Considering Action on CDRPA. Call Your Senators Today!

The Senate has reconvened following a 3-day recess to try to complete its work before it adjourns for the November elections. Although there are many issues on the schedule, Senate leaders are negotiating, again, to bring to the floor for a vote, S. 3297, Advancing America's Priorities Act, which includes the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act. Senate leaders have asked the paralysis community and Spinal Cord Leadership Council members to activate their members and ask them to call their Senators to urge support and passage of S.3297, Advancing America's Priorities Act before they adjourn this week. NSCIA and other members of the Spinal Cord Injury Council are joining in support by encouraging members to reach every Senator who voted against consideration of the bill this past July (see Senate roll call vote 189) and ask them to vote YES to consider S. 3297 and then vote YES to pass S. 3297.
[full story]

Notice of NSCIA Annual General Membership Meeting

NSCIA will hold its Annual General Membership Meeting at 2 pm, Monday, November 17, at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 300 Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA., in conjunction with the 2008 Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame^TM and a meeting of the Board of Directors. The general meeting is open to all NSCIA members in good standing. Nominations for election to the board of directors may be made by any member of NSCIA and should be forwarded in writing to elarson@spinalcord.org.

50 Arrested as ADAPT Takes Affordable, Accessible Housing Crisis to Congress

From their base at "DUH City", groups of ADAPT activists fanned out on the Hill to hit congressional leaders who have responsibility to help solve the housing crisis for low income people with disabilities. Visits to the offices of Rep. Barney Frank (D, MA), a longtime leader on housing issues, and Senators Chris Dodd (D, CT) and Richard Shelby (R, AL), the Chair and ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs resulted in a total of 50 arrests.

[full story]

Hurricane Gustav Underscores Importance of September 25 Town Hall Meeting

A message from NSCIA CEO Marcie Roth

While we celebrate that Hurricane Gustav's impact was not as severe as expected, still many people were hurt; homes and livelihoods were severely damaged or lost all together...and there are more storms on the way this season!  The necessity for emergency planning and preparation for people with disabilities and mobility impairment, in particular, is especially urgent.  For this reason, NSCIA will be holding its town hall meeting, Building a Culture of Preparedness...Including Everyone, as scheduled, on September 25th at 10:30 am at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in New Orleans. 

2008 SCI Hall of Fame Voting Closes Today!

Last Day to Vote!

Voting for the 4th Annual Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame, which is set to close at 9 pm ET, Friday, September 5 (TONIGHT). NSCIA members can vote to choose the 2008 Hall of Fame Inductees in each of 17 categories through an online member-only voting process. Formed by NSCIA in 2005, the SCI Hall of Fame was created to celebrate and honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to quality of life and advancements toward a better future for all individuals with spinal cord injury. To vote, visit http://www.spinalcord.org/members/vote.php

For more info, click here

U.S. Needs “Culture of Preparedness

September 1, 2008 -- "We need to build a culture of preparedness", said Lt. Gen. Russel Honore in an interview on CNN last night as part of the network's ongoing coverage of Hurricane Gustav. "Government has to set standards for institutions like nursing homes and hospitals and for homes where people with mental or physical disabilities are kept. They should be evacuated well before the general population. We have to decide how close we should have those types of institutions to the coastline and to areas that will probably be flooded. That part of the population is just too vulnerable."

Honore led the military response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. As Commanding General First U.S. Army, he commanded Joint Task Force - Katrina. Honore, 60, is a native of Louisiana and has many relatives living there. He retired from active service in March and is an Honorary Host Committee member for the 2008 Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame gala. He is also scheduled to be the keynote speaker at Building a Culture of Preparedness…Including Everyone, a town hall meeting focusing on emergency preparedness and response. Both events are scheduled to be held in New Orleans on September 25.

Gustav Approaches: Resources for Gulf Coast Residents Facing Evacuation

August 31 -- The mandatory evacuation of New Orleans ahead of Hurricane Gustav began today according to the Associated Press, with residents on the city's vulnerable West Bank told to start leaving first. Some hospitals and many nursing homes were evacuated Saturday. New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin and his administration are indicating that the evacuation of vulnerable populations is well organized and proceeding. However, as NOLA and the nation learned the hard way three years ago, that is not something upon which people with disabilities can necessarily count. NSCIA’s Resource Center remains available at info@spinalcord.org  or 800-962-9629 with information and referrals to help people with disabilities with their emergency planning, as well as unforeseen obstacles encountered along the way. Or view a variety of Emergency Preparedness topics online. Most notably, the RC can assist in locating resources in areas to which NOLA residents relocate, whether short or long term. Disaster Preparedness for People with Disabilities at http://www.disability911.org/  is a good resource (preparation checklist) until landfall of Gustav. [full story]

Leading Disability Advocacy Groups Host Events at National Conventions

Some 120 disability leaders from across the nation, including delegates to the DNC representatives from businesses, elected officials, consumer advocacy groups and a range federal and non-governmental agencies attended an informal brunch at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) this week to celebrate their shared focus on ensuring that issues of importance to the disability community are included in the political process.

Member Voting is Open for 2008 SCI Hall of Fame™

Rockville, MD – Member voting is now open for the 4th Annual Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame, giving NSCIA members the opportunity to choose the 2008 Hall of Fame Inductees in each of 17 categories through an online member-only voting process. Formed by NSCIA in 2005, the SCI Hall of Fame was created to celebrate and honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to quality of life and advancements toward a better future for all individuals with spinal cord injury. Click here to vote. [full story]

AAPD Condemns Portrayal of Disabled Character, Use of the Word "Retard" in "Tropic Thunder"

Depiction of character and repeated use of word "horrifying"

WASHINGTON, DC — The largest cross-disability membership organization in the U.S. on Monday condemned all of the entities involved in creating, producing and marketing the movie “Tropic Thunder” for the use of the word “retard” and their portrayal of an intellectually disabled character in the movie.

Harkin and Hatch to Introduce Senate Version of the ADA Amendments Act Before Recess

This morning, Senator Harkin announced on a call-in for grassroots advocates organized by the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights that he and Senator Hatch (R-UT) intended to introduce a Senate version of the ADA Amendments Act before the Senate recess.

Then, the bill was introduced in the Senate (S. 3406) with 56 original co-sponsors!

Advancing America’s Priorities Act Defeated by Narrow Margin

S. 3297, Advancing America’s Priorities Act, a legislative package which contained the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act (CDRPA) and some three dozen other bipartisan, non-controversial bills that have been passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, the respective Senate Committees and have been awaiting Senate action, was defeated this week in the Senate by a vote of 52-40, only eight votes shy of the 60 votes required. [full story]

Iowa Residents Impacted by Recent Flooding Need DME

Hundreds of Iowa residents are in need of certain quality durable medical equipment (DME) including manual wheelchairs and transfer shower benches. Many folks cannot return to their homes due to funding needs for repairs. Complicating this was a previous shortage of accessible housing in the region. There is also a need for funding assistance for temporary housing and temp modifications such as ramps for the temp housing. [full story]

Take Action Now! Support the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act

Now is the time to act to help pass legislation that will encourage multi-disciplinary consortia style research to enhance understanding and speed discovery of better treatments and cures; support rehabilitation research; and, build quality of life programs to promote independent living, self-sufficiency and equality of opportunity for individuals with paralysis and mobility impairments.

In an attempt to move legislation before the August recess, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) introduced S. 3297, Advancing America’s Priorities Act, a legislative package which contains approximately three dozen bipartisan, non-controversial bills that have been passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, the respective Senate Committees and have been awaiting Senate action. The Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act (CDRPA), S.1183, has been included in this package which is expected to be debated in the Senate later this week. Read more to see how you can act now.

McCain Confirms Participation in National Forum on Disability Issues

Presidential candidate, Senator John McCain, has confirmed participation via satellite link in the National Forum on Disability Issues.  Senator Barack Obama has declined to a participate, citing scheduling conflicts. NSCIA is a hosting sponsor of this is a historic, nonpartisan forum on national disability policy to be held on July 26, 2008 in Columbus, Ohio from 12:30 - 3:30 pm ET at the Conference & Technology Center.

CMS Announces Delay in Competitive Bidding Program

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced that the Durable Medical Equipment Competitive Bidding Program, which affects only Medicare beneficiaries in traditional fee-for-service in 10 competitive bidding areas, has been delayed. [full story]

Congress Overturns President’s Veto of Medicare Bill; H.R. 6331 Becomes Law

The homecare community scored a hard-fought victory this month when the Congress enacted H.R. 6331, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008, over the objection of the President. By approving the legislation, Congress agreed to delay competitive bidding in order to allow some critical process reforms, quality improvements, and other reforms to the bidding program and HME policy. The House and Senate both voted today to overturn the President's veto of H.R. 6331, the Medicare package that includes the bidding changes and the physicians' pay adjustment.

"This is a tremendous victory for our constituents, albeit a short term one," said Marcie Roth, NSCIA Executive Director and CEO.

Medicare Bidding Program Creates Major Problems for Physicians, Hospitals and Beneficiaries Seeking Home Medical Equipment

Physicians Cite Patient Concerns about Delays in Oxygen Orders, Lack of Trained Technicians

The new Medicare competitive bidding program for durable medical equipment has created concern and chaos for beneficiaries, physicians, hospital discharge officials, and home medical equipment providers across the country since it was implemented in 10 metropolitan areas on July 1.
[full story]

House and Senate Deliver Veto-Proof Passage of Medicare Fix

Washington, DC— “With this vote, the Senate has passed a responsible and necessary bill to prevent payment cuts for doctors and to improve care for patients,” said Senate Majority Leader Harry today after the U.S. Senate passed the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act by a 69-30 vote.

New Online Disaster Preparedness Resource for People with Disabilities

A new Web site, www.disability911.com , has been launched by Independent Living Research Utilization (ILRU) to help people with disabilities prepare for the 2008 hurricane season in the event they have to leave their homes or shelter in place. The hurricane season runs from the beginning of June through the end of November.
[full story]

Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report

Federal Judge Rejects Request for Injunction Against Medicare Competitive Bidding Program for Durable Medical Equipment

U.S. District Judge for the District of Columbia Ricardo Urbina on Monday rejected a request for a preliminary injunction against a Medicare competitive bidding program for durable medical equipment, CongressDaily reports (Edney, CongressDaily, 6/30).

[full story]

SCI Hall of Fame Nominations Closed

The nomination process for the 2008 Spinal Cord Injury Hall of Fame is closed at this time. Please visit back often for details on how to vote and for other updates on the SCI Hall of Fame. [full story]

NSCIA Hosting Sponsor of National Forum on Disability Issues

NSCIA is a Hosting Sponsor of The National Forum on Disability Issues, featuring the 2008 Presidential Candidates (invited). This is a historic, nonpartisan forum on national disability policy to be held on July 26, 2008 in Columbus, Ohio from 12:30 - 3:30 pm ET at the Conference & Technology Center. [full story]

Act Today to Preserve the First Month Purchase Option for Power Wheelchairs

Standard Power Wheelchairs are not "One Size Fits All"

A short window is open in which individuals can act to preserve the "first month purchase option" for power wheelchair users to help ensure that every wheelchair user has the correct equipment for his or her individual needs. Contact your Congressional Members and let them know you want to retain the right to choose! [full story]

Attorney, Activist Harriet McBryde Johnson Dead at Age 50

Harriet McBryde Johnson, a well-known Charleston disability and civil rights attorney, died Wednesday. Johnson had often attributed her choice to become an attorney to the fact that her disability-rights work had taught her something about the impact of law on how people live. She specialized in helping people who could not work get Social Security benefits.

[full story]

Test Your Video Game Skills (and Your Fitness Level) at Abilities Expo

Get grief for playing video games instead of exercising? Need an outlet for your competitive side? If you can be in Anaheim, CA, May 31 – June 1, we have you covered. Visit the NSCIA booth at Abilities Expo and try out Namco’s R: Racing Evolutions, a decidedly next generation approach to the company's former arcade style racing games. Or, if you have already been playing this realistic racing simulation game in where players can customize fully licensed cars, and race in eleven fictional and real-life tracks – come show us your stuff. We dare you. 

NSCIA Board Member Joins Accessible Racing Team

Drivers with Disabilities to Race Against Able-Bodied Drivers in Modified Race Cars in Reality Show

Accessible Racing of New Hampshire named six celebrity drivers for their Accessible Racing Driving Experience Reality Show including Veronica Gonnnello (able bodied), who is a National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) board member, Abilities Expo Show Manager and Accessible Racing Board Member. Gonnello is joined by Madonna Long, Domonic Corradin, Ian Brown, Kimberley Barreda, Colleen Macort and Cameron Shaw-Doran as drivers for Hanaford Racing in this first of its kind program. Filming will be held June 13 - 14, 2008 in Andover, MA and North Woodstock, NH.

[full story]

Act Today to Protect Your Medical Equipment Rights

Today, May 22, is a nation wide call-in day for exempting complex rehab from national competitive bidding, sponsored in part by the National Spinal Cord Injury Association.

If you want to help Congress in support of obtaining an exemption for Complex Rehab (HR. 2231 and S.2931) via a nation wide Legislative call, click here to be directed to the Call-In Day instructions. This event is being hosted by Sunrise Medical.

When Mom cares for adult daughter, Mother's Day carries new meaning

Personal Essay by NSCIA Board Member, Paul Aronsohn. Originally published in the May 8 edition of USA TODAY

It wasn't supposed to be this way.

At age 72, my mother, Margot, should be enjoying her "golden" years. After all, she worked most of her life, raised four kids and survived three divorces. Mom's due a little rest and relaxation.

Conversely, at age 45, my sister Patti should be knee deep in the "busy" years. She should be working long hours, raising children and sharing life with a special someone.

But about 20 years ago, their lives ended up on a different path. In 1989, we learned that Patti had a devastating medical condition - one that still has not been effectively diagnosed.

New Program Aims to “Jump Start” Range of Grassroots Activity

Deadline for Applications May 31

April 29, 2008, Rockville, MD -- Too often, talent, inspiration and a willingness to put in the effort to make a profound difference goes untapped because those individuals don’t have the financial resources they need. Even more frustrating is that often the level of financial support required to make a difference is surprisingly affordable.

Fundraising Fun Run Launches ADAPT’s 25th Anniversary of Activism

Press Conference set for Tuesday,April 29

500 bright orange vests lit the drizzly, grey Washington, DC, this Sunday as ADAPT members from nearly every state in the Union did fundraising laps around Upper Senate Park warming  up for a week of activism and the celebration of ADAPT’s  25th anniversary. The funds raised will support activists living on fixed disability and retirement incomes to participate at ADAPT actions confronting the people in power who make policy and law about their lives.

New Funding Opportunities Available for SCI/D Program Grants

The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation is pleased to announce funding opportunities through its Program Grants to help organizations improve the quality of life for those living with a spinal cord injury/disease.

Marcie Roth: No Stopping for Road Blogs

As CEO and executive director of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA), Marcie Roth , is a passionate spokesperson and can often be found in some pretty unexpected places. Currently, Roth is sharing her enthusiasm and expertise in Qatar as a US Delegate to the Shafallah Forum on Children with Disabilities . Read on to hear some of her experiences in her own words.
[full story]

Disability Empowerment Center of Arizona to Open in August 2008

The Disability Empowerment Center of Arizona (DEC) is the future home of Arizona Bridge to Independent Living (ABIL), The Arizona Spinal Cord Injury Association (AzSCIA), and seven other non-profit organizations that serve people with disabilities. AzSCIA is a Chapter of National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA). Each organization shares a common history and vision for the future. The 65,000 square-foot center, located at 5025 E. Washington St. in Phoenix, broke ground in early 2007 and is expected to be completed this August. [full story]

Maryland First State to Pass Sports Equity Law for Students with Disabilities

Atholton senior and wheelchair athlete Tatyana McFadden has won races against some of the best competition in the world, but her most recent victory came away from the track.
[full story]

UN Convention on Disabilities Ratified by 20 Countries

(Rockville, MD – April 4, 2008) The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has now been ratified by 20 countries, a major step in the overall process leading ultimately to implementation and enforcement.
[full story]

DoD Reaches Final Decision to Cover Unique Wheelchair for Navy Doctor's Paralyzed Wife

Limits Access to Others in Need

When Navy doctor Tom VanHook recently deployed with the U.S. Marines to Afghanistan, he was breathing a sigh of relief about his family back home. After months of impassioned legal disputes, he and his family won a major battle against the Department of Defense (DoD) for coverage of his paralyzed wife's iBOT® Mobility System. [full story]

How the Tax Rebate Applies to People with Disabilities

With the April 15th tax filing deadline close at hand, people can use all the help they can get to survive another challenging tax season.  [full story]

Shop Online at NSCIA and Come Out Smelling Like a Rose

The newest product on the shelf at NSCIA’s online store is Sun Artisans Odor Neutralizer, a product developed by one of our own, the Arizona Spinal Cord Injury Association. It is truly a fantastic product! The odor neutralizer eliminates odor directly at the source and may be sprayed into the air, onto a surface, or just about anywhere an odor needs to be eliminated. But the best thing about Sun Artisans Odor Neutralizer is that 100% of the revenue generated by sales goes right back into the SCI/D community.
[full story]

Visit NSCIA at Booth 818 at this Weekend's Abilities Expo in Edison, New Jersey

The 2008 Abilities Expo will kick off at the New Jersey Convention and Expo Center in Edison, NJ with its New York Metro show March 28-30. NSCIA, a sponsor of the event, will be at booth number 818, and as always, would love to meet our members in person. Stop by NSCIA's booth to help us celebrate our 60th anniversary!
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NSCIA Launches Hospital Membership Program

Recognizing the critical role that rehabilitation hospitals and their staffs play in serving people with spinal cord injury or disease, and their families, the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) has created a new membership category of Hospital Organizational Member, and featuring a free trial sign up period.
[full story]

The Time to Shop NSCIA's Online Store is (k)NOW!

Free gift included when you act fast!

If you forgot to shop at the NSCIA Online Store for your sweetie this Valentine’s Day, there is still hope for romance! Better late then never, and when you purchase a gift at our online store you are giving two gifts at once, because each purchase made benefits NSCIA and its members. Check out the NSCIA Online Store’s kNOW watches. These watches, which come in a variety of colors and styles, come with an inspirational story behind the product. You will be reminded that no matter what time it is, “It’s always NOW” each time you look at the dial. The creator of these watches was inspired to “live in the now” after his father’s passing, and encourages everyone to do the same.

National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) Condemns Police Treatment of Quadriplegic in Florida

Rockville, MD – The response by the spinal cord injury community to a video released Tuesday in which a man was dumped face forward out of a wheelchair by a law enforcement officer who apparently doubted his inability to walk, is “outrage” according to Marcie Roth, executive director and CEO of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA).
[full story]

NSCIA Address Change

Please Note! NSCIA's new mailing address is: One Church Street, Ste. 600, Rockville, MD 20850. Any mail or packages sent to our old Bethesda address will NOT be forwarded to our new address.
[full story]

Judge Recommends Coverage of Stair Climbing Wheelchair for Navy Doctor's Paralyzed Wife

A judge has recommended full TRICARE coverage of Deanna VanHook's stair-climbing wheelchair, rejecting the Department of Defense's legal and policy arguments for noncoverage of the medical device. [full story]

2009 Coming Fast - At Least for Your Analog TV

In February 2009, the USG will convert TV carriers to digital transmission. Now many TV stations broadcast digital and analog signals, but the analog will disappear as over the air service. If you happen to have an analog TV and no cable or satellite service you will need a converter box to convert the digital signal to analog. But there is good news! [full story]

Hearing on Community Choice set for Wed., Jan. 16

The House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health will hold a hearing ("Helping Families with Needed Care: Medicaid's Critical Role for Americans with Disabilities") on the Community Choice Act (H.R. 1621, S.799) and related issues in Room 2123 Rayburn House Office Building on Wednesday, January 16 at 10:00 AM. Those interested in joining the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health hearing via webcast can find more information on the Committee website.

*Please Note: The ADA Restoration Hearing originally scheduled for Wednesday has been postponed, but is expected to be rescheduled for later this month.

Spinal Cord Injury/Disorder Groups Unite to Advance National Policy Issues

At a recent meeting in Washington, DC, 19 national organizations and institutions working to improve the lives of individuals with spinal cord injuries or disorders (SCI/D) joined together to establish the Spinal Cord Leaders Council. The purpose of the Leaders Council is to advance federal legislative and regulatory policies that would empower persons with SCI/D to lead more active and productive lives.

 Launched during a 2006 summit on spinal cord injury, hosted by the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA), the Spinal Cord Leaders Council was formalized by the leaders of the 19 active organizations in November 2007.

Looking for Last Minute Gifts? Don't Miss This!

Spend $50 or more through the NSCIA Online Store before December 31st and receive a free book by SCI Hall of Fame Inductee Gary Karp.

Gary Karp, 2007 SCI Hall of Fame inductee in the Disability Educator category, is a successful public speaker, journalist, editor, and trainer, as well as an author. Karp's three books, all of which deal with a different aspect of living with a disability, are for sale in the NSCIA eStore. Spend $50 or more at the NSCIA Online Store and receive a FREE signed copy of his book The Art of Kissing (quantities limited).

NSCIA Benefits from Creative Holiday Message

This holiday season, Altimate Medical, maker of the EasyStand standing frame, decided to do something a little different. In lieu of a printed holiday card, they decided to make a special donation to the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA). For each unique click on the webpage www.easystand.com/holiday, Altimate Medical will donate $1 to NSCIA. On December 31, 2007, the company will issue a check to the NSCIA for up to $3000. EasyStand has reached out to customers and friends with fun, unique holiday cards in the past.

Watch Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame 2007 Videos Now!

If you couldn't make it to Washington, D.C. on November 6, 2007 to attend Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame 2007, you can now watch it on-line.
[full story]

Visit NSCIA at World Congress and Expo on Disabilities

Visit National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) at Booth #653 of the World Congress & Expo on Disabilities (WCD) November 15 - 17 at the Washington DC Convention Center. WCD Expo is dedicated to improving the lives of those with developmental and physical disabilities, their families and professionals who work with them. Register now at www.wcdexpo.com. [full story]

Presidential Candidates Forum Draws Large Crowd of Undecided NH Voters

More than 600 New Hampshire undecided voters, the majority of whom are also individuals living with disabilities, representing a consortium of non-partisan national and local groups hosted several presidential candidates from both parties on Friday, allowing the candidates a chance to outline their priorities firsthand to the people they will most affect. [full story]

U.S. House of Representatives Passes Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act

The bill, which enjoys strong bi-partisan support, was named for the late actor Christopher Reeve and his wife Dana. Christopher Reeve is a member of the Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame in the category of "Benefactor," inducted in the program's inaugural year of 2005. Dana Reeve is a nominee in the same category for induction in 2007. This year's inductees will be announced at the 3rd annual SCI Hall of Fame Gala on Tuesday, November 6, at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC. Formed by NSCIA in 2005, the SCI Hall of Fame was created to celebrate and honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to quality of life and advancements toward a better future for all individuals with spinal cord injury. [full story]

Shepherd Center Founders Awarded National Public Service Award from the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

The American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) awarded Shepherd Center founders Alana, Harold and James Shepherd the 2007 Distinguished Public Service Award during the organization's recent annual meeting. [full story]

Notice of NSCIA General Membership Meeting

NSCIA will hold its Annual General Membership Meeting at 2 pm, Tuesday, November 6, at the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill, 400 New Jersey Ave NW, Washington, D.C. The Annual Meeting, held in conjunction with the 2007 Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame™ and a meeting of the Board of Directors, is open to all NSCIA members in good standing. Nominations for election to the board of directors may be made by any member of NSCIA and should be forwarded in writing to elarson@spinalcord.org. [full story]

Proposed New CARF Standards Available for Public Field Review

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) Spinal Cord System of Care standards has posted proposed new Spinal Cord System of Care standards for field review through October 19. [full story]

September 25 Senate Finance Committee Hearing on Community Choice Act to be Webcast

Wish you could make it to DC for the Senate Finance Committee Hearing on the Community Choice Act on September 25 at 10 am Eastern Time? Webcasts present a cost- and time-saving option to participate. [full story]

NSCIA Mourns Passing of Past President Harley Thomas

Harley Thomas, immediate past president of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA), passed away early on the morning of September 4. His wife, Nancy Starnes, was with him at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital in Rockville, MD when he died. Thomas had never fully recovered from surgery several months ago. Information on memorial services will be forthcoming. “Harley will be deeply missed by the entire NSCIA family, and especially by those of us who knew him personally,” said Marcie Roth, Executive Director and CEO. “We share immense gratitude for Harley’s commitment to NSCIA and to the SCI community as a whole.” [full story]

Editor and Publisher Cliff Crase Dies

Cliff Crase, editor and publisher of PN and Sports ’n Spokes for more than 30 years, passed away August 15, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Cliff truly changed the lives of thousands of individuals, focusing the spotlight on the issues that matter most in the lives of people with spinal cord injury or disease. His leadership as editor of PN made a significant contribution to the health, welfare, and rehabilitation of individuals with SCI/D, and there was no better voice for wheelchair sports and recreation. [full story]

Action Alert: Protect the ADA Restoration Act of 2007

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the world's largest business federation, in a letter addressed to the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, went on record as opposing the ADA Restoration Act of 2007 (H.R. 3195) and urging Members not to co- sponsor or show support of the bill. The Chamber's letter mischaracterizes the ADA Restoration Act as an expansion of the ADA, when in fact, it is, as its name suggests, a restoration of the original intent of Congress when passing the ADA in 1990, which was to create a level playing field for everyone who wants a job to have an equal opportunity to work. Just like other civil rights laws prohibit employers from basing decisions on characteristics like race or sex, Congress wanted the ADA to stop employers from making decisions based on disability. “Now is the time to react strongly and directly to the Chamber regarding their opposition to ADA Restoration by writing or calling the Chamber of Commerce,” said Marcie Roth, NSCIA Chief Executive Officer. [full story]

Action Alert: Time to Show Some CLASS Spirit!

On July 10, the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Act (CLASS Act) was introduced in the House and in the Senate (H.R. 3001, S. 1758) as vital legislation that would help fund long-term services and supports for people with disabilities. On the same day as its introduction, the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee held a hearing on long-term care, which highlighted the CLASS Act. Since then, no Congressional actions have been taken and only a couple new co-sponsors have joined the legislation. [full story]

Justice Department Commemorates 17th ADA Anniversary by Signing Two New Project Civic Access Agreements

On July 26, the Justice Department celebrated the 17th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) at an event in New Orleans, La. hosted by the Mayor’s Advisory Council for Citizens with Disabilities. At the ADA anniversary event, Wan J. Kim, the Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division, signed a Project Civic Access (PCA) agreement with the City of New Orleans which sets out a plan to ensure equal access for people with disabilities to the city’s emergency operations and other programs, services, activities and facilities. Other participants in the event included Jim Letten, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana; C. Ray Nagin, Mayor of New Orleans; and members of the New Orleans City Council. [full story]

NSCIA receives Four Star Rating from Charity Navigator

The National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) has received a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America's largest independent evaluator of charities. “We understand that donors need to know that their financial support is spent wisely on the mission they intend to support,” said Marcie Roth, CEO and Executive Director of NSCIA. “We work hard to be good stewards of our donors’ contributions and we are honored to have our efforts and the quality of our work recognized. [full story]

NSCIA Encourages Members to Speak Out in Support of Community Choice Act

The Community Choice Act would establish that all states provide community-based services in all states across the US, reforming Medicaid and ending the institutional bias that forces hundreds of thousands of people with disabilities into nursing facilities and other institutions. “Passage of this bill will finally give people at risk of institutionalization and those who have been forced into nursing homes real choices in where they live. ,” said Marcie Roth, Executive Director and CEO of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association. [full story]

Senate Passes Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act

The U.S. Senate has passed S5, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, which would lift the ban on federally funded stem cell research. The bill had been passed by the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this year. “We are pleased to see that the Senate has passed this important legislation, but remain frustrated that President Bush has publicly stated that he will again veto the bill,” said Marcie Roth, chief executive officer of NSCIA. [full story]

Former NFL Star Darryl Stingley Dies at Age 55

CHICAGO - Darryl Stingley, paralyzed in an NFL exhibition game on Aug. 12, 1978, died Thursday, April 5 at the age of 55. He was found unresponsive in his Chicago home then later pronounced dead at Northwestern Memorial, according to Tony Brucci, an investigator with the Cook County medical examiner's office. Stingley is survived by his wife Martine and three sons, Hank, John and Derek. The family has said donations may be made in Darryl's name to the National Spinal Cord Injury Association, c/o Heymann, Suissa & Stone, 1 Church Street, Suite 600, Rockville, Md., 20850 or donate online at www.spinalcord.org. [full story]

Your Freedom is Being Threatened!

Did you know that you may no longer qualify for the same kind of wheelchair you have today and need for tomorrow? Or that Medicare only pays for wheelchairs needed to function inside the four walls of your home – NOT OUTSIDE? And that all payers (including Medicaid and private insurers) consider Medicare as the coverage and payment trendsetter? How can you protect your rights and independence? [full story]

NSCIA Broadens Services for Hurricane Survivors

After leading the national effort to serve hurricane survivors with disabilities including those with spinal cord injuries after hurricane Katrina, NSCIA continues to support those individuals and families through the Resource Center and programs like the "The Brian Joseph McCloskey Katrina Survivors with Disabilities Fund". [full story]

NSCIA Extends Role as Official Sponsor of Abilities Expo in 2007

Bethesda, MD, January 4, 2007 – National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) today announced it will participate as an exhibitor and as part of the educational track of the 2007 Abilities Expo schedule and has committed to actively promote the unique series of consumer events to its membership. NSCIA is an Official Sponsor of Abilities Expo's 2007 consumer shows. [full story]

International Leaders Recognized for Achievements on Behalf of Children with Disabilities

Bethesda, MD – Four  global leaders were honored at a gala dinner December 6 hosted by the National Spinal Cord Injury Association at the Embassy of France in Washington, D.C. [full story]

"Who Wants to be a Millionaire" Update

As the first contestant to use a wheelchair, on the U.S. version of “Who Wants to be a Millionaire,” hosted by Meredith Vieira, Santina Muha, NSCIA’s communication associate, finished with $16,000 in winnings after deciding to not take a guess on the $25,000 question during her appearance on "Pop Culture Week.” Santina started her pursuit of the $1 million prize on Tuesday, November 14th, where she made it up to the $1,000 question. She continued as a holdover contestant on Wednesday, November 15th′s show, where she started by looking at the $2,000 question with all three lifelines left ("50-50," "Phone-A-Friend," "Ask the Audience"). [full story]

NSCIA Participates in the World Congress and Exposition on Disability (WCD)

As part of its ongoing community outreach efforts, NSCIA staff manned an informational booth at the World Congress on Disability (WCD) November 17-19 at the Philadelphia Convention Center. [full story]

Many Acts of Kindness

NSCIA mourns the passing of Ameristar Casinos CEO Craig Neilsen, a great friend of NSCIA and of people with SCI/D in general.  His foundation was a platinum Sponsor of the first ever SCI Summit in 2005 and again for the Summit at the highest level this year. [full story]

NSCIA Staff Member to be First Hot Seat Contestant To Use a Wheelchair on U.S. Version of “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire”

The National Spinal Cord Injury Association’s Communication Associate, Santina Muha, will be a contestant on the hit game show “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire,” hosted by Meredith Vieira.  [full story]

Leading Disability Advocacy Partners Urge Postponement of Medicare’s Damaging Power Mobility Regulations

The Teddy Pendergrass Alliance and the National Spinal Cord Injury Association Join Forces

Bethesda, MD, November 5, 2006 --, The National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) and the Teddy Pendergrass Alliance (TPA) have joined forces with other disability organizations in a shared effort to postpone November 15th implementation of a troublesome new Power Mobility Devices (PMD) Coverage Policy issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). [full story]

Teddy Pendergrass Alliance and National Spinal Cord Injury Association Announce Partnership

October 30th, Bethesda, MD - Soul music legend Teddy Pendergrass and the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) today have announced the formation of a partnership between his charitable group, the Teddy Pendergrass Alliance (TPA), and NSCIA. [full story]

Critical Information for Air Travelers with Disabilities

Federal sources have clarified key points as part of a campaign to alert potential air travelers with disabilities or medical conditions to the nature of the elevated threat level, and encourage them to take proactive and necessary steps to alleviate potential adverse impacts, and provide connections to further information and assistance. [full story]

NSCIA President Harley Thomas Calls for Support of Stem Cell Research

Washington, DC, August 4, 2006 -- National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) President Harley Thomas noted dramatic real and perceptual changes in progress toward a spinal cord injury “cure” since his injury in 1982.  Joining four US Senators in a press conference today in the nation’s capitol, Thomas expressed disappointment in President Bush’s recent veto of  H.R. 810, but Thomas shared his optimism that a “cure” will be found and called on members of congress to “do the right thing” by supporting stem cell research. [full story]

National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) Declares Support for H.R. 810

Bethesda, MD – National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) has officially declared support for passage of H.R. 810, the controversial bill that would expand the number of stem cell lines approved for federally funded research, said Marcie Roth, CEO. NSCIA made its position known by joining members of the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research as co-signers of a letter supporting passage of H.R. 810. [full story]

Increase Awareness of Movement Disorders AND Raise Funds for NSCIA in One Easy Step!

National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) is participating in the Life in Motion Congressional letter-writing campaign designed to raise awareness of movement disorders. [full story]

NSCIA Joins World in Mourning Passing of Dana Reeve

It is with great sadness that the National Spinal Cord Injury Association joins with the world in mourning the death of Dana Reeve, widow of Christopher Reeve. Dana died on Monday, March 6, 2006 after being diagnosed with lung cancer in the summer of 2005. [full story]

Be Sure You Receive What Your Doctor Ordered

Your doctor has prescribed Zanaflex Capsules™ (tizanidine hydrochloride) for your spasticity and may have given you samples of Zanaflex Capsules. Zanaflex Capsules have a short-term effect in the body. Your doctor may tell you to take your medication just before you perform activities that are made more difficult by spasticity. [full story]

Philanthropist / Entrepreneur Robert Klein Donates Half Million Dollars to Directly Aid Hurricane Survivors with Disabilities

Gift named “The Brian Joseph McCloskey Katrina Survivors with Disabilities Fund”. NSCIA head says “needs of people with disabilities” in hurricane disasters “almost entirely lost” until Klein donation

(Bethesda, MD – November 22, 2005) – A gift of $500,000 for the relief of people with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities who survived the ravages of Hurricane Katrina and other recent hurricanes, has been made to the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) by Robert Klein, CEO of Safeguard Properties, Inc. and his wife Ita. The gift is a personal donation from the Kleins. Safeguard Properties is the nation’s largest privately held property preservation/mortgage field services company.  The NSCIA is headquartered in Bethesda Maryland; and Safeguard Properties is based in Brooklyn Heights, Ohio. [full story]

NSCIA CEO Marcie Roth Testifies at Congressional Briefing on Emergency Management and People with Disabilities

Stirring personal stories were among the examples cited by NSCIA Executive Director and CEO, Marcie Roth, in her testimony on November 10, 2005 before the House of Representatives Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus. The human element Roth shared underscored the need for action on her targeted recommendations. [full story]

Enabled in Words: the Real Lives, Real Victories of People with Disabilities Helps Benefit NSCIA

In honor of the Fifteenth Anniversary of the ADA, NSCIA and Enabled Online.com are proud to announce the release of the first collection of stories from EnabledOnline.com… Enabled in Words: the Real Lives, Real Victories of People with Disabilities. [full story]

Court Expands Scope of Disabilities Law - Cruise Ships Must be Wheelchair Accessible

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court ruled Monday that foreign cruise lines sailing in U.S. waters must provide better access for passengers in wheelchairs, expanding the scope of a landmark federal disabilities law. [full story]

Court to Review Rights of Disabled Inmates

The Supreme Court said Monday that it will decide if states and counties can be sued for not accommodating disabled prisoners, setting up another legal showdown over the power of Congress to tell states what to do. [full story]

Critics Jeer VA Beds Shift

Plan Reduces Key Services, Kelly Warns

Congressional lawmakers and veterans spoke out against plans to move some inpatient services out of the FDR campus of the VA Hudson Valley Health Care System and into the Castle Point campus, saying ongoing conflicts in the Middle East are producing new veterans who need quality health care. [full story]

Boston Chapter of NSCIA donates Van

Van will expand options

Derick Gibbs is paralyzed from the neck down. He breathes with the help of a respirator while he sleeps at night, and for months at a time he's been unable to leave the New England Sinai Rehabilitation Center in Stoughton , his home for the past 11 years. [full story]

TC3 Prof's Play About Disability Honored

DRYDEN -- The protagonist in Paul McCabe's original play, "Get Off," is a morose 22-year-old named Jack who is recovering from a traumatic spinal cord injury. [full story]

Murderball

Quadriplegics kicking the crap out of one another in the name of sport? Welcome to the 2002 Wheelchair Rugby World Championships in Sweden.

At first it seems surreal: A rugby coach is on the sideline screaming, ordering his players to beat on the guy in the wheelchair. "Pressure him!" yells Team U.S.A. coach Kevin Orr, his face redder than a stripe on the grand ol' flag. "Jack him, Bryan! Jack him!" [full story]

Navigating Medicare and Medicaid, 2005: Resource Guides for People with Disabilities, Their Families, and Their Advocates

The Kaiser Family Foundation today released new guides, prepared by Bob Williams and Henry Claypool of Advancing Independence and Jeff Crowley of the Georgetown University Health Policy Institute, that explain the role of Medicare and Medicaid for roughly 20 million children, adults and seniors with disabilities. [full story]

Economic Science: Disability Insurance Side of Social Security Raises Questions

The NY Times reports on the somewhat overlooked issue of disability insurance in all the talk about reforming the Social Security system. The situation is complicated by a variety of factors, including the fact that disability insurance is inherently an insurance policy while social security is a pay-in plan -- thus the concept of investing funds in private accounts would not work for those on disability. [full story]

NBC's John Hockenberry Takes on Million Dollar Baby: And the Loser Is..

One can barely imagine how relieved the movie critics now climbing over themselves to defend Clint Eastwood were to see the right-wing media going after Eastwood's Million Dollar Baby. [full story]

Quadriplegic Taken off TIA Flight

He says, "I was discriminated against, embarrassed" when carried off a US Airways plane.

The trip began like perhaps 20 others Phil Barrett says he had flown on US Airways. [full story]

Eastwood Continues Disability Vendetta with "Million Dollar Baby"

Bethesda, Md. - Score one for Clint Eastwood for his award winning film, "Million Dollar Baby," a brilliantly executed attack on life after spinal cord injury (SCI). [full story]

CSI's' Hall Takes Issue With Two Oscar Nominees

"CSI: Crime Scene Investigation's" Robert David Hall celebrates his personal 100th episode Feb. 24 -- not bad, considering the actor known as Doc Robbins came in initially for a one-shot guesting. [full story]

Bush Mum on Future of Disability Benefits

Anthony Williams is a Social Security recipient. He isn't elderly; he's 44. He isn't retired; he's a quadriplegic, crippled when an armed robber shot him 17 years ago. [full story]

Super Bowl Suggests Cruise Ships Are Like Hotels For ADA

Floating hotels' to argue they aren't so. Supreme Court will decide if cruise ships subject to Americans with Disabilities Act. [full story]

Wheels Across Borders

They say everything in Texas has giant proportions and Rio Grande NSCIA, has one big reach. It is an international stretch. [full story]

Beneficiary Impact Statement Needed in Soc. Security Reform

Social Security Debate and Persons With Disabilities

As the Administration begins to push private accounts for Social Security, persons with disabilities have been virtually absent from the public discourse. [full story]

SCI Community Mourns Loss of Barry Corbet

Climber Who Became Spinal Cord Injury Leader

GOLDEN, Colo. — J. Barry Corbet, who died Saturday at age 68, belonged to the American team that made the first ascent of Everest's West Ridge in 1963 and became a leading author on spinal cord injuries after a helicopter accident left him paralyzed. [full story]

Pasadena, California Tops in Disability Friendliness, Outreach

Pasadena, California has won the fourth annual Accessible America Contest. [full story]

Help Save Medicaid with Personal Stories

Do you know a senior, a child, a person with a disability, or a working family in your state that has Medicaid coverage? If so, we would love to hear from you and them! [full story]

Let Your Voice Be Heard

The Department of Justice [DOJ] is engaged in a process to issue final regulations and adopt guidelines implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act [ADA]. [full story]

Reps. Langevin and Owens Statement on Effect of Bush Privatization Proposal on Disabled Americans

Congressmen Jim Langevin (D-RI) and Major Owens (D-NY) recently released the following statement on the failure of the White House to address the needs of disabled Americans when discussing their Social Security proposals at yesterday's Economic Summit: [full story]

New Technology for People with SCI

People with spinal cord injuries have been given new hope thanks to researchers at the University of Cambridge. [full story]

Computerized Pump Offers New Hope In Back Treatment

Crippling muscle spasms and pain are typically treated with muscle relaxers and pain killers. Now, a powerful little pump is giving patients relief. Even people with MS, spinal cord injuries, Cerebral Palsy and stroke are seeing a huge difference in their lives. [full story]

Kids on Wheels Breaks New Ground by Speaking Directly to Kids with Disabilities

While most titles about kids with disabilities instruct parents on taking care of them, this book champions the view that kids who use wheelchairs can make choices, shape their own lives and grow up to be as independent as any child leaving the nest. [full story]

San Jose Hospital Offers Wireless Internet to Spinal Cord Injury Consumers Effort Led by Former Patients

San Jose's Valley Medical Center is now providing wireless Internet access to patients at the hospital who have sustained spinal cord injuries. [full story]

Report Recommends Eliminating Medicare Waiting Period

Some of the most medically needy individuals in our society (uninsured disabled adults) are further challenged in obtaining needed health care by Medicare's two-year waiting period for the disabled, says a new report from The Commonwealth Fund and the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation. [full story]

Actor Christopher Reeve Dies

It is with great sadness that the National Spinal Cord Injury Association joins with the world in mourning the death of activist and leader, Christopher Reeve. Christopher died on Sunday, October 11, 2004, after a systemic infection from a pressure sore caused cardiac arrest. [full story]

Occupational Therapists Study Ways to Prevent Pressure Sores

Newswise — Last week, actor Christopher Reeve died from a heart attack, brought on by an infection that originated from a pressure sore. Most people were shocked to learn of the deadly turn such a benign sounding ailment can take, but pressure sores and infection from pressure sores can be common occurrences for people with spinal cord injuries. [full story]

Ancient Acropolis Now Accessible

Reuters reports that visitors with disabilities at the Olympics can now visit the Acropolis, one of Greece's most famous archaeological sites. The City of Athens built a lift in record time and delivered it one day before the Games started. [full story]

Scientists Finger Surprise Culprit in Spinal Cord Injury

ATP, the vital energy source that keeps our body's cells alive, runs amok at the site of a spinal cord injury, pouring into the area around the wound and killing the cells that normally allow us to move, scientists report in the cover story of the August issue of Nature Medicine. [full story]

Critical Information for Air Travelers with Disabilities

Federal sources have clarified key points as part of a campaign to alert potential air travelers with disabilities or medical conditions to the nature of the elevated threat level, and encourage them to take proactive and necessary steps to alleviate potential adverse impacts, and provide connections to further information and assistance. [full story]

Leading Disability Advocacy Partners Urge Postponement of Medicare’s Damaging Power Mobility Regulations

The Teddy Pendergrass Alliance and the National Spinal Cord Injury Association Join Forces

Bethesda, MD, November 5, 2006 --, The National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) and the Teddy Pendergrass Alliance (TPA) have joined forces with other disability organizations in a shared effort to postpone implementation of a troublesome new Power Mobility Devices (PMD) Coverage Policy issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Slated to take effect November 15th, 2006 the new policy would limit or deny medically appropriate power mobility to Medicare beneficiaries with mobility disabilities such as spinal cord injury, ALS, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, and severe brain injury. The regulatory changes would have wide-ranging impact as State Medicaid agencies and other third party payers adopt this policy and reset their fees. [full story]