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The National Spinal Cord Injury Association was established in 1948. The NSCIA has many chapters throughout the United States. Some members have physical disabilities while others do not. Chapter members participate in a variety of activities. They work with local and national officials and agencies to develop better programs and services and act as community advocates for improved access, housing, transportation, employment, and leisure time activities for disabled people. Peer support and other services are also provided. These are fundamental aspects of living that 500,000 people with spinal cord injuries or diseases must cope with after they have been rehabilitated and have returned to community life.
More and more persons are getting involved in activities of the NSCIA. Through the collective efforts of staff, chapters, board members, and other volunteers, the Association is improving care, producing results in research, and addressing everyday living issues that confront all people who use wheelchairs.
The Association serves not only persons with spinal cord injuries but also persons who have diseases or conditions, the effects of which are similar to those of spinal cord injuries. Multiple sclerosis, which affects young adults, is one example. Friedreich's ataxia, which manifests itself during teen-age years and appears to run in families, is another. Spina bifida develops before birth during growth of the fetus. Varying degrees of paralysis often result. The individuals affected frequently use wheelchairs and therefore must cope with many of the same problems that confront persons with spinal cord injuries. |
