In late January, I had the opportunity to give three lectures to three 11th grade history classes at the Transit Technology School in Brooklyn, New York. My lectures were about my personal experiences in the Battle of Hue City. The students’ interest in that particular time in our nation’s history had been sparked by their […]

Last month, I had the honor of introducing you to the five new members who signed up on January 5, 2004—the date of the official launching of United Spinal Association. It would be great to continue this in-depth introduction of new members, but during the first month alone close to 100 new members were added! […]

by Chris Pierson
United Spinal and VetsFirst team up to serve a new generation of America’s greatest citizens.
In December, the holiday season was a little brighter for 90 families of soldiers wounded in Iraq who were spending Christmas at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, DC. Each family received a $50 gift certificate to […]

by Kim Ruff-Wilbert, Carolyn Hubbard, and Crystal Powder
United Spinal Association analysts explain the new Medicare prescription drug benefit.
On Saturday, November 22, 2003, the United States House of Representatives passed the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003, and the Senate followed suit voting in favor of the bill on Tuesday, November […]

by John Rooney and Rochelle Haynes
Voting rights advocates weigh the costs of ensuring election security against implementing universal access.
On October 29, 2002, President Bush signed the Help America Vote Act (HAVA). The law provides federal funding to states over the next three years to assist in the upgrading of each state’s voting equipment […]

by Terry Moakley
The number of accessible subway stations in the Big Apple has risen, making it easier for New Yorkers and tourists with disabilities to speed around the five boroughs underground.
The time is at hand when we update New Yorkers, and those who plan to visit the Big Apple soon, concerning progress in […]

by Stephen Sofer, PhD
The federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) was enacted in 1996 and became effective (in part) on April 14, 2003. The HIPAA legislation is a series of laws addressing two central themes: the portability of health insurance and accountability in the use of medical records.
According to the […]

by Lisa Gesson
Going to the theater has often been a challenge for people with disabilities. Concerns about getting in the door, reaching the ticket window, being able to reach and enjoy your seat, use the bathroom and purchase concessions have not made theater trips the relaxing and fun events they should be for people with […]

by Lisa Gesson
You know there’s a problem. You live in the United States, you are a contributing member of society and your rights are being violated. You’re at the end of your patience and you’re ready to speak out and rock the boat. You are about to call in or visit an office and make […]

Gordon Mansfield, former Executive Director of Paralyzed Veterans of America and a long-time friend of Eastern Paralyzed Veterans Association/United Spinal Association, was sworn in on January 30, as deputy secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the VA has announced.
“[Mansfield] has played a key role in our accomplishments for veterans, helping secure […]

by Jessica B. Mayer
Employment is a vital issue for people with disabilities. There are an estimated 54 million persons with disabilities in the United States. The unemployment rate for this population who are of work age is around 60%. Additionally, 55% of college graduates with disabilities are unemployed. The government saves $3 billion for […]

by Danny Perry
In the 1990s, the United Spinal Association Nets, a wheelchair basketball team co-sponsored by the New Jersey Nets and the Association, dominated the Eastern Wheelchair Basketball Conference (EWBC). That dominance continued through 2001 until the New York Rollin’ Knicks stepped up and captured consecutive conference crowns. Going into the 2003–2004 season, it […]

by Danny Perry
Over the past few years, United Spinal Association has been working hard at obtaining sponsorship from professional sports franchises for its adaptive sports teams. Already onboard are the New York Mets, New York Jets, New York Islanders and the New Jersey Nets. The New York Rangers are the newest franchise to […]

Disabilities Lexicon is focused on common words and terms related to Spinal Cord Disorders

Medical professionals often speak in jargon, or write in shorthand, that is unfamiliar to patients with spinal cord disabilities and their families. Understanding what they are talking about is critical.

An introduction to Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), sometimes called Lou Gehrig’s disease.

An introduction to Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

An introduction to Polio (also know as poliomyelitis).

An intrdoction to Spina Bifida

Introduction to Spinal Cord Injury series includes various aspects of the disability that range from Understanding SCI to Sexuality and Reproductive Health.