Wake Me up When September’s Gone

Today is the last day of September.

And while I could have told you 30 days ago that September is National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness month, now seems like just as good a time as any. After all, awareness shouldn’t wane just because a month passes by.

During this past month, more than 900 individuals became paralyzed as the result of an SCI. One every 48 minutes.

This number pales in comparison to the number of individuals diagnosed with cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, or some other terrible health malady – and that is exactly why one month a year is not enough awareness to make a difference.

I realize that not everyone is affected by an SCI, but at some point throughout their lives, I’m willing to bet everyone will know someone who knows someone, etc. Obviously, if you’re reading this post, you are already in that collective.

September may have come and gone, but the need to develop new neuroprotection, pharmacological, and regeneration treatments to reduce, prevent, and reverse paralysis continues. Increased education and investment in research are key factors to improve the outcomes for victims of spinal cord injuries.

So please consider my ask that you carry the torch forward, not just in Septembers, but every day of the year. Continue to spread awareness, consider investing in initiatives that can help, whether research related or quality-of-life related (such as Getting Back Up), and don’t be afraid to ask others to do the same.

You never know who’s life could change over the next 48 minutes.

Stand Strong!

Scott