Happy New Year!
Feelings of excitement and hope tend to accompany new beginnings. So too it is often the case that each new year brings with it a renewed sense of optimism about what the future might hold. This optimism is shared in the short video clip below. It is from a recent news segment regarding medical breakthroughs that could be on the horizon in 2012.
The discussion about SCIs and nerve regeneration start at the 2:40 mark of the video.
It is worth noting that 2011 was one of the most significant years in the history of SCI research. Several breakthroughs were achieved that were once thought inconceivable:
In May, Rob Summers, a man paralyzed from the waist down after being hit by a car in 2006, regained the ability to stand, take steps on a treadmill and move his hips, knees, ankles and toes voluntarily as a result of an experimental treatment developed at UCLA and the University of Louisville. Doctors now believe this treatment could potentially treat 10% to 15% of people living with an SCI and allow them to regain some function of their legs.
In July, researchers at Case Western Reserve University coaxed skittish nerve fibers to bridge a gap in damaged spinal cords and forge new connections. The experimental repairs revived partially paralyzed diaphragm muscles, restoring normal breathing in 9 of 11 test animals. Researchers call the result “the culmination of 30 years of work” and continue work towards advancing the treatment.
In September, the Allen Institute for Brain Science announced the discovery of a new class of cells in the spinal cord that act like neural stem cells, offering a fresh avenue in the search for therapies to treat SCIs.
And in October, The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation published updates on several ongoing, independent, human stem cell trials. Results range from safety studies showing no adverse affects in patients after being implanted with embryonic stem cells 12 months earlier; promotion of significant and persistent recovery in walking ability when implanted in mice; anecdotal reports from several other studies citing recovery in individuals with acute SCIs.
These stories are just a few of the remarkable happenings within the scientific and medical community when it comes to treating SCIs. I continue to remain optimistic about the future and possibility of one day benefiting from the exciting advancements taking place. However, my hope is certainly not a substitution for my continuing disciplined work ethic, not only physically, but also mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support! Stand Strong!
Scott