“Stand up for those who can’t.” – The Paralyzed
It seems like September arrived early this year. The weather is finally cooperating, rewarding many of us with the best stretch of beautiful days in quite some time. And now, Summer is just about over.
However, one great thing about September arriving is that it is also recognized as National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month. This is a perfect chance for anyone to help spread the word about spinal cord injuries and assist in generating support for those who are paralyzed.
There are several different ways in which you can help:
Make A Donation: Do so in honor of a loved one, caregiver, scientist or organization, such as Getting Back Up, working to improve the lives of those injured.
Spread The Word: Use social media, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, E-Mail etc. to make others aware, and explain why finding a cure and helping others is important to you.
Every 48 minutes someone in the United States is paralyzed from a spinal cord injury. No one is immune. Remember, a spinal cord injury also affects more than just the individual.
Oh, and here’s another reason to get motivated. Recent changes to Medicare are devastating to individuals living with paralysis, including ALS. It was recently reported Medicare may no longer cover software which helps those who have lost the ability to speak and communicate with others (read article).
Issues like this are the very reason Getting Back Up was formed. We strive to improve the immediate quality of life for individuals living with paralysis, by offering adaptable products and therapy programs that are proven to enhance the individuals’ situation. Unfortunately, in most cases, insurance does not provide the necessary assistance (click if interested in making a tax-deductible donation).
Last week, I attended the annual Spinal Cord Injury Forum at MetroHealth hospital. Each year I am invigorated by meeting new individuals as well as reconnecting with existing friends who are living with a spinal cord injury. It’s a true testament to perseverance through adversity!
Finally, I also received a package in the mail from the founding members of the WOMP gang, who are now living in Florida. Among the contents were the two pictures below. Not sure if they were aware it is Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month, but I thought their gifts were very fitting!
As always, thank you for the continued prayers and support!
Stand Strong!
Scott
Awesome post! I came across your blog today as I was trolling the internet looking for info on SCI’s. My youngest son who was 19 at the time broke his neck in a roll over car accident, hes now a C5/C6 incomplete Quad. That was 2 yrs ago , I am always trying to learn more about SCI, your post was nice to read
Great post Scott. I needed this post as a reminder to keep things in perspective! Love your writing.
Hey Hey, My My
Hi Scott,
Whenever I read your blogs, I end up in this “stumble upon” mode. This time looking up Neil Young, then his songs, his song’s meanings, On to Crosby Stills and Nash…Kurt Cobain, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s greatest songs ever…and now it’s 2:30 AM and I’ve spent a lot of time screwing around on the internet.
But really, thank you for all the inspiration. You plant a little seed and it grows in people’s minds. Feeling some panic here about that end of life thing with the need for forgiveness, remembrance and meaningfulness. But we can change now–today–right?…once you’re gone you can’t only not come back, you can’t make changes either.
Keep writing–inspiration needed!
Scott, your blogs are always so thoughtful and special. Thank you for continuing to give and be our inspiration.
I happened to watch that TED talk yesterday as well. I appreciated the speaker’s honesty with those he was caring for and I loved that it brought them peace in their final moments. I think all most of us can hope for is to have made a difference in the world before our time to go- God knows you have made a huge difference to many people Scott!
This year has been a year of losing several special people in my life. Mortality is definitely in the forefront of my thinking but also appreciation for all my blessings. We all need reminders to be thankful for what we have, help others and believe that God will get us through this life to a much better home.
Thanks for all your inspirational reflections!
For every downside, there is an upside! Life is precious! You can get a high when the weather is beautiful and the Brown’s win! God has plans for you so never give up.
Great food for thought, Scott! I especially liked it when you said that you felt almost giddy with appreciation for your life. I usually feel that way, too.
Take care!
hi scott, well said words. i am going to read again later and ponder these thoughts. i agree neil young is quite a guy, musician and writer. when listening to neil i often need to listen to the lyrics over many times to grasp the thought complete. i many times look up the lyrics to read for many of the folks i listen to. hhmmm the BOSS come to mind. it’s wonderfull you have so many friends around comming and going and hanging out, friends are so important. God Bless
Hello Scott,
Great post today.
Thanks for the reminder not to waste whatever time we have.
Thank you
Always inspiring to me! Your words always so full of wisdom. I think that Superman left you in charge. Have a great weekend!
Beautifully written Scott…and always so impactful and honest. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Thank you for the gentile reminder about life, illness and death. God bless you for living what you believe.
Love and God Bless
I am so glad this was the first thing I read this morning! It’s a great reminder to be aware of life, friends, family, intention, actions, words, deeds- mindfulness.
Thanks Scott!
Thanks for ALWAYS inspiring – I look so forward to your e-mails.
I am blessed to know you.
God Bless You – Mary
You are a gift 😉 Thank you. That was a wonderful piece to read and give me focus.