There are a wide variety of paralysis resources designed to help with:
- Medical information regarding paralysis
- Choosing the right rehabilitation program
- Coping and living with paralysis
- Knowledge on assistive equipment designed to make life easier
- Rights and benefits of the paralyzed person
- Research on new therapies and treatments
Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center
The Paralysis Resource Center is part of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, and offers a supportive community complete with active discussions and journals to the paralyzed population. Support is offered on topics related to medical issues, coping and lifestyle issues, rehabilitation, assistive technology and equipment, and financial concerns. There is also a section for family, parents, and caregivers. The Paralysis Resource Center can be accessed at http://www.paralysis.org/
American Paraplegia Society
With the goal of improving the quality of medical care delivered to people with spinal cord injuries, the American Paraplegia Society promotes research and reviews scientific findings. The can be accessed at http://www.apssci.org/
American Spinal Injury Association
ASIA comprises medical specialists devoted to the treatment of spinal cord injuries, and establishes and promotes standards for health care, education, and research regarding spinal cord injuries. ASIA can be accessed at http://www.asia-spinalinjury.org/
The Darrell Gwynn Fondation
Dedicated to finding a cure for spinal cord injuries, the Darrell Gwynn Foundation also helps improve the quality of life of spinal cord injured persons by providing special equipment or services. They can be accessed at http://www.darrellgwynnfoundation.org/
Fight 2 Walk Foundation
Provides advice, case work, counseling, and funding to those with spinal cord injuries. They can be accessed at http://www.fight2walk.org/
Miami Project to Cure Paralysis
Located at the University of Miami this is the world’s largest research center devoted to the cure and care of paralysis. They can be accessed at http://www.miamiproject.miami.edu/
National Spinal Cord Injury Association
Designed to help people with spinal cord injuries achieve independence and live life to the fullest. They can be accessed at https://unitedspinal.org/
The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research
The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) provides a comprehensive network of support related to the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities, including those who have disabilities as a result of spinal cord injuries. NIDRR specializes in conducting research in the areas of employment, health and function, technology, independent living, and community integration with the goal of bringing as many opportunities as possible to those with disabilities. NIDRR’s Spinal Cord Injuries Model Systems Program is devoted entirely to those with spinal cord injuries, and can be accessed at
Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities
Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a nonprofit organization that reviews and grants accreditation services for care-related facilities and programs. As their standards are rigorous, only the best rehabilitation programs earn their seal of approval. CARF can be accessed at http://www.carf.org/home/