We Are #StrongWheeled Together!

What makes us #Strong Wheeled Together is the connections and personal stories that we share along our journey, from every corner and intersection of society. Together, we erase the stigma of disability and fight so that everyone can live the lives they choose. We lift each other up to overcome challenges and advocate for equal opportunities. And we lead by example and empower others to do the same.

StrongWheeled Together Gala November 10 at 630pm EST

This November 10th, United Spinal Association proudly presents our 2022 Member Awards Gala, the crowning moment of our year-long #StrongWheeled Together campaign.

We welcome all friends and supporters of United Spinal, the SCI/D community and the movement for disability rights to celebrate with us as we present our #StrongWheeled Together Award to an up-and-coming crew of exceptional individuals—an event months in the making. The Gala is virtual and all are invited to attend—spread the word!

Registration is Free and Open to All!

The Power of Community!

United Spinal’s #StrongWheeled Together campaign is fueled by people power: when our members and partners join forces, we are unstoppable! The campaign showcases the strength of our community when it comes together to achieve goals, demonstrates how United Spinal’s resources and support empower us to live the lives we choose, and raises public awareness on the benefits of diversity, equity and inclusion in helping people with disabilities discover greater independence. The campaign will spotlight previously untold stories about children, parents, couples and veterans with SCI/D, as well as parents and caregivers of people with SCI/D and service dogs. It will center on initiatives around:

Mental Health & Wellness

Strength comes in many different forms. Being ‘strong wheeled’ is not just about outer strength, it’s also about inner strength; the strength in learning to overcome new challenges, sharing our lived experiences with one another, and discovering resources and connections to reach our goals. We will be shining a spotlight on mental health and the unique struggles faced by people with mobility disabilities so we can learn from each other and grow together. Click below and explore the various ways to maintain health and wellness—it’s an investment in your future.

MORE INFORMATION

Fitness & Athletics

Participating in sports and recreation, finding camaraderie in competition, and setting goals that challenge our minds and bodies are beneficial in our rehabilitative journey and far beyond. We will be showcasing individuals who are using fitness and athletics to demonstrate what’s possible, with determination and resilience, to challenge social norms and erase the stigma of disability. They say, ‘We can’t!”, but we say “We can!”

Emergency Preparedness

A critical part of maintaining our independence is being adequately prepared for emergencies and natural- or human-caused disasters that can wreak havoc on all aspects of our lives, from our health and mobility to accessing our communities and pursuing our joys and passions. Being equipped both intellectually and physically for unexpected events can save lives, lessen the emotional impact and facilitate a quicker adjustment in times of transition. Discover more valuable information to make sure you’re Ready to Roll!

BE READY TO ROLL

opens in a new windowDONATE TO SUPPORT THE STRONG WHEELED TOGETHER

United Spinal thanks the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation for helping us offer financial grants to individuals with spinal cord injuries and disorders impacted by natural and human-caused disasters.

Here are a few of the lives we have touched this year.

Greg Nichols - ‘I Don’t Know Where I Would Be Today’

Greg Nichols evacuated his home to seek safety and shelter from Hurricane Ida. After the category 4 storm subsided, he returned home to find severe damage to his property, including a roof that needed to be fully replaced, water damage and no working air conditioning.

Terrell Patterson - ‘They Gave Me The Hope I Needed’

Terrell Patterson’s home was severely damaged by Hurricane Ida making it uninhabitable and needing major repairs. Terrell and his family struggled to find accessible housing as they tried to piece their lives back together and return to their home.

April & Maddie Young - ‘They Were There For Us’

April and Maddie Young had their home completely destroyed by Hurricane Ida. Maddie was in need of accessible home modifications but the damage caused by Ida dashed any hope of that possibility.

Jason Homer - ‘We Had Our Lives Back’

Jason Homer evacuated his home of 19 years to ride out Hurricane Ida in Houston. When he returned, he saw firsthand the devastating aftermath. Everything from his home’s siding and roof to his accessible van were damaged by Ida’s powerful winds.