Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group

NWI SCI Group-February Meeting at the Vater house

2012-02-01T12:19:00.001-06:00

Hello all,

I know its been a long time and this may be short notice, but Anne Vater and her husband have invited us to their new house in Crown Point, Indiana for a get together this Saturday, February 4th, 2012. I would like anyone who is interested in getting reacquainted to please reply to this message so we know how many to expect. We are talking about ordering pizza from... you guessed it Gelsosmo's for this gathering. There is one near their house. I don't know who else has been missing the taste of Gel's pizza, but I'm looking forward to it.

I almost feel like Jake Blues.. We're gettin' the group back together.

I' would like to visit and see how everyone has been doing and what we've all been up to. I would also like us to discuss the future direction of the NWI SCI Group. What does it mean to each of us and the community as a whole? What sort of goals, if any, are we interested in accomplishing? ...and what is the level of interest and commitment that each of us are willing and able to put into accomplishing these goals? Any and all ideas are welcome. Any and all interest levels are welcome. So, if you can make it... Bring your appetite! Bring your imagination and thinking caps! Bring any interested family and friends! I hope to see you all at the Vater House on Saturday.

Saturday, February 4th, 2012
1pm - 4pm
The Vater House
12640 Pennsylvania St
Crown Point, IN 46307
map
H: 219-779-9878
C: 219-7468261

July Meeting

2011-07-08T12:48:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone,

Gary and Heidi Pierce have invited us to their house for a cookout for the July meeting. They have a swimming pool with a lift and a stocked pond in the back yard, so bring a suit and/or a fishing pole if you are interested. Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, and soda will be provided. Please RSVP and bring a side dish if you are able.

Sunday, July 10^th, 2011

1pm - ?

Gary and Heidi's House

440 Elk Creek Ct.
Hebron, IN 45341

Map

June Meeting and more...

2011-05-31T17:05:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone,

Our next meeting will be:

Sunday June 5, 2011
1:00 pm at
Gelsosomo's Pizza
2605 LaPorte Ave
Valparaiso IN
477-4255
map | driving directions

*Please RSVP for the meeting. Hope to see you there!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Some dates to keep in mind are:

*June 4 -
Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Program
Annual Open House & Lunch
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Christening of 2.4 meter GUST
http://www.juddgoldmansailing.org/event_calendar.html

*June 8, 9 -
RHI Sports’ annual water ski clinic
8:00am to 5:00pm
Morse Reservoir at Red Bridge Park
697 West Jackson St.
Cicero IN, 46034
$10 per Skier per day. Lunch is available and free both days!
To register please go to: http://2011rhispwaterskiclinic.eventbrite.com. If you have any questions, please contact RHI Sports by phone at: 317-329-2281 or by email at: rhisp@rhin.com. Hope to see you there.

*Adaptive Adventures also has a number of events that may be of interest to some of you as well. From handcycling, kayaking in Chicago; to water skiing in Twin Lakes, WI; to camping in Savanna, IL. Check them out at http://adaptiveadventures.org/events

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If anyone else has any information they would like to share, please feel free to do so.

May Meeting and More...

2011-04-29T20:34:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone,

Our next meeting will be:

Sunday May 1, 2011
1:00 pm at
Gelsosomo's Pizza
2605 LaPorte Ave
Valparaiso IN
477-4255
map | driving directions

*Please RSVP for the meeting. Hope to see you there!

A few of us attended a wheelchair tennis clinic at Turnstone Center in Forte Wayne, Indiana on Saturday, April 16, 2011. The pictures can be found here.

Other dates to keep in mind are:

Saturday, May 15 -
Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation
Day at the Races
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Indianapolis, IN
http://www.samschmidt.org/events

June 4 -
Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Program
Annual Open House & Lunch
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Christening of 2.4 meter GUST
http://www.juddgoldmansailing.org/event_calendar.html

Other News:

Unite 2 Fight Paralysis has videos from Working 2 Walk 2010, a science symposium where scientists working on curing paralysis meet with 200 patient advocates and their families. http://www.vimeo.com/u2fp

ADA Compliance - If you are ever in doubt of whether a concert venue of stadium is operating under the ADA her is the resource to check. http://www.ada.gov/stdspdf.htm

Kim's friend's band is playing at the Michigan City American Legion on Saturday if anyone is interested in going. They are interested in doing a benefit concert for our group, so it might be nice to check them out and give them a little support before they head out on tour this summer.

Wheelchair Tennis Clinic

2011-04-29T02:01:00.002-05:00

The Turnstone Center and Wildwood Raquet Club hosted a wheelchair tennis clinic on April 16, 2011. It was a good time, with a pretty good turn out for the morning session. About half the people continued on to the afternoon session.

Check In 10:00am - 10:30am
Opening Session at Turnstone 10:30am - 12:30pm
Lunch at Turnstone at 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Afternoon Session at Wildwood Racquet Club at 2:00pm - 4:00pm

My daughter went with me and got to experience tennis from a sports chair and standing. I thoroughly enjoyed the day and wouldn't mind having a sports chair of my own so that I could play tennis locally... because the chair does make that much of a difference.

On the Ice At the United Center

2011-04-08T19:23:00.002-05:00

On March 26, 2011, two members of the NWI SCI Group played in an exhibition sled hockey game with the RIC Blackhawks before the Blackhawks faced off against the Ducks. Here are some pictures. Congratulations Gary and Paul!

A Thank You from the Lab of Dr. Hans Kierstead

2011-03-10T17:42:00.006-06:00

In December of 2010, the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group donated $2000 to the University of California-Irvine to help fund the research of Dr. Hans Kierstead. We got this thank you card in the mail in the beginning of March.

March Meeting - date change and more...

2011-02-20T21:43:00.004-06:00

Hello Everyone,

The date of our next meeting has been changed to:

Saturday, March 5, 2011
1:00 pm at
Gelsosomo's Pizza
2605 LaPorte Ave
Valparaiso IN
477-4255
map | driving directions

*Please RSVP for the meeting. Hope to see you there!

The date of our March meeting has been moved due to the fact that three members of the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group have started playing sled hockey with the RIC Blackhawks and there is a scrimmage scheduled for the RIC Blackhawks to play GLASA’s Falcons sled hockey team on Sunday, March 6^th and March 13^th from 3:15pm – 5:30pm at the Hot Shot rink in Lake Bluff, IL.

Gary and Paul have been going to practices for a while now and I just started. If you are free and interested in supporting the fellow NWI members in their Sled Hockey endeavors, please feel free to ask one of us for more information.

To learn more about RIC Blackhawk Sled Hockey...

--------------------------------------
*Hopefully those members who took part in the adaptive ski trips with Adaptive Adventures will be in attendance to regale us with their tails of adventure, as well.
--------------------------------------

A message from Kim...

My friend Drew and his band This Last Dance are having a FREE show in Michigan City and he wants us to attend!

March 3rd, 10pm
Ryan's Irish Pub
401 Franklin St
Michigan City, IN

It's a pretty open bar, but if we need to, Drew said that we can sit to the side where they will be. They want to do fundraisers for us so this is a great way to find out what their music sounds like. I think they're awesome! Hope to see you all there!

February Meeting

2011-02-03T13:04:00.002-06:00

Hello Everyone,

I hope that you have all made it through the Blizzard of 2011 and have gotten yourselves dug out by now. This is just a reminder that the February meeting of the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group will be:

Sunday, February 6, 2011
1:00 pm at
Gelsosomo's Pizza
2605 LaPorte Ave
Valparaiso IN
477-4255
map | driving directions

Bring your Valentine out for some pizza...
Please RSVP if possible... Hope to see you there!

Adaptive Snow Skiing

2011-01-24T01:10:00.003-06:00

Hello Everyone,

On January 18th, 2011 three members of the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group participated in the Adaptive Ski and Ride Program at Wilmot Mountain. The pictures can be found here.

Anyone interested in participating in future skiing outings please read the email below and contact Diana Helt (dhelt@ric.org) and Angela Allen (angela@adaptiveadventures.org ). Let me know if you get scheduled, because the NWI SCI Group would like to pay for your lift ticket to help facilitate your adaptive skiing experience.

My Skiing Experience...

I had never been skiing before this trip, and I was definitely nervous going into it. The organizers and the volunteers really instill confidence though and make you feel as comfortable as possible. We started out getting basic instruction on the equipment and getting fitted into our skis in the warmth of the lodge. Once secure, we headed just outside the door to get back into the skis on the snow. That's where you get more instruction on turning, stopping, and getting on the lift. Turning the mono-ski was surprisingly easy. After getting acquainted with the skis, Joel said our group looked balanced, stable, comfortable, and confident... and if we felt that way we should start skiing. We skipped the "bunny hill" and went straight to the ski lift to hit the slopes. They stop the lift to help you get on the lift chair with your instructor/volunteer and may or may not stop at the top to let you off. You are on the seat, in your ski, and clipped to the lift the whole way up. Once you're on top, it's time to go down the hill. It was an amazing experience! I couldn't even tell that my instructor was right behind me holding on to the straps the whole way down the first couple of times.We probably got to take 4 or 5 runs before it was time to go. I have to say that it was one of the more exciting, exhilarating, and awesomely terrifying experiences I've had in a long time. I will go again!

If anyone else cares to write about their skiing or any other experience I would love to post it on this blogsite.

Joe White

Goodbye 2010, Hello 2011!

2011-01-24T00:38:00.003-06:00

Hello Everyone,

2010 seemed like a busy year for some, if not most of us. We have a couple of new college graduates, some of us took adaptive sailing lessons, some of us have a new pool, and still others have started playing sled hockey. If you have learned something new or picked up a new hobby or sport that you'd like to share with everyone, let me know. I'd love to send an email out and post about it on nwiscig.blogspot.com. We had a great turnout for the Spinal Cord Injury Walk this year as well. Just over 120 people were in attendance raising over $6000. We donated $2000 of it to Unite 2 Fight Paralysis, and $2000 to research facility committed to curing paralysis

It seems that we've lost a couple of group members and their families to the beautiful Denver Colorado area. I can't wait to go visit. The up side to wheelchair friends moving across the country is that you know you have a wheelchair accessible place to visit when you get a chance. Or at least one can hold out hope for that being the case.

For those of you who are sticking it out in Northwest Indiana, we are planning to stay just as busy in the upcoming year. We should be able to look forward to local kayak/canoe outings along with the possibility of more adaptive sailing, adaptive scuba diving, adaptive water skiing, and handcycle rides. If you have any other ideas, let me know. We are open to suggestions.

These are the tentative dates for the NWI SCI Group meeting for the rest of the year. We will try to send out a reminder email every couple of weeks. If anyone wishes to receive any other form of reminder let us know how we can accommodate you.

Sunday, February 6,2011

Sunday, March 6, 2011
Sunday, April 3, 2011

Sunday, May 1, 2011
Sunday, June 5, 2011

Sunday, July 10, 2011*
Sunday, August 7, 2011

Sunday, September 11, 2011*
Sunday, October 2, 2011

Sunday, November 6, 2011
Sunday, December 4, 2011

*Denotes 2nd Sunday of the month due to holiday weekend.

Check back to see what's going on and what's gone on...

Joe White

Wheelchair Accessible Caves

2010-10-02T14:04:00.003-05:00

A little over a year ago my daughter asked if I could ever take her to go see some caves. To which I immediately replied, "I'm sure I could. We have to do some research first though." I don't know if you've ever done a search for wheelchair accessible caves before, but nature isn't too wheelchair accessible sometimes.

I read a number of reviews, and went to so many websites that my head started to spin. It was a little confusing, because I would read websites that said there was no wheelchair access and then read reviews that would say some of the caves were accessible. I think the discrepancy has something to do with the difference between "wheelchair accessible" and "handicap accessible". Just because something is handicap accessible, doesn't mean that it will work out for wheelchair users.

We got to Mammoth Cave National Park, and I expected to be able to do something there cave related. After all, it's a national park. Nope... none of their cave tours are wheelchair accessible. All tours start at the Visitor Center, then a (non-wheelchair accessible)bus takes you to the mouth of the cave. I was told that I could follow the bus to the entrance of the big cave so I could hear a story, but then my daughter couldn't even go on the tour alone since she was only 12.

One of the rangers got an excited look on his face and told us to hang on, he'd be right back. He came back with a pamphlet for Cub Run Cave in Cub Run, KY. They have built a boardwalk that goes about 1/2 mile into the cave. I believe they did this just to keep people from walking on and contaminating the cave floor. It would have been great if the owner had the forethought to make the ramp ADA accessible... no such luck though. There are 12 steps to get up to the boardwalk. I just got out of the wheelchair and bumped up the steps on my butt and got back in the chair with a slightly wet butt. It a little narrow, so I could only turn around at certain spots. The tour guide was super great and friendly, however due to liability purposes can't help anyone up and down the steps. They supposedly have tentative plans to someday get rid of the stairs and slope the ramp down to the cave floor.

I took some pictures but the Cub Run Cave website has some good pictures as well. If you're interested in caves, and you have help or can bump up 12 steps, it's well worth the trip.

The other cave that we found was the Kentucky Action Park/Outlaw Cave in Cave City, KY. There isn't a ramp or boardwalk in this cave. The entrance is ground level though, a little rough... but there are no steps. The two caves and how they're treated couldn't be more different, but I think they're both great experiences though, especially considering the limited wheelchair accessible options.

Happy Caving!

Handcycling, anyone?

2010-10-02T13:15:00.004-05:00

Our Mission, as the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group, is to improve the quality of life for those with spinal cord injuries, living in Northwest Indiana; through education, advocacy, peer support, and recreational outings.

As the director of the NWI SCI Group, I would like to help further our cause by offering to go on a handcycle ride with anyone interested in experiencing handcycling.

I have two different styles... a Quickie Mach II and a Top End XLT.

I wold even be willing to loan one of my personal handcycles out for a short time as well. I find that riding gives me a feeling of freedom and independence that I don't experience in many other ways. I know the cycling season is coming to an end shortly, but there's always next summer.

Contact me at nwiscig@gmail.com or call 219-531-0055 for more information.

Let's ride!

Joe

Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2010 Outcome

2010-10-02T12:03:00.006-05:00

The Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2010 was on September 26th, 2010. We had just over 100 participants, and raised $5600 this year.

Thank you to all who participated, donated, and volunteered. Thank you to our sponsors, Allen and Associates, Wagenar Steel, and Elegan Sportswear. Chesterton Physical Therapy, Inc. supplied water and Family Catering prepared the hot dogs and Sloppy Joes.

All of the proceeds are to benefit the activities of the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group, Unite 2 Fight Paralysis, and paralysis research. Donations are tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Tax ID# 27-1583899

Picture of the event are coming soon.

Shirts from the event are for sale for only $10 each plus $5 shipping per order.
Send sizes and appropriate donation amount to:

NWI SCIG
1052 Joliet Rd
Valparaiso, IN 46385

...or donate online at www.sciwalk.info

September meeting and more...

2010-08-28T20:37:00.006-05:00

September is almost here and we hare having this month's meeting on Sunday, September 6th, 2010. Due to the many positive reviews from the August meeting, it will be at my house Cookout Style again.

I realize that it's Labor Day Weekend so if you already have plans you are forgiven, if not well... here's a cookout to go to.

I will supply the hot dogs and hamburgers, please feel free to bring a dish and tasty beverage of your choice. It promises to be a good time (weather permitting).

Please RSVP, so we know how many to expect.

Sunday, September 6th, 2010

Joe's House
1pm-?
1052 Joliet Rd
Valparaiso, IN 46383

Park across the street at McDaniels. Hope to see you there.

A few dates to save...

Popcorn Festival, Valparaiso, IN - Saturday, September 11, 2010
(I have registered our group for a spot in the parade. We need volunteers to help with decorating a truck with popcorn, walk/roll/ride a handcycle, and pass out material in the parade. Parade starts at 10am, line up at 8. View Parade Route here.)

Spinal Cord Injury Walk - Sunday, September 26, 2010
(Pamphlets and sponsor forms can be found online. Let's go out and kick some butt getting donations)

Working 2 Walk, Science Symposium, Phoenix, AZ - November 11th -13th, 2010

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2010-08-28T15:31:00.001-05:00

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Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2010

2010-08-26T13:41:00.003-05:00

Butterfield Family Pavilion/Fairgrounds Park

704 McCord Rd, Valparaiso, IN 46385

Please preregister at www.sciwalk.info

Schedule of Events

12pm - Registration/shirt pick up
1pm - 5K/3.1 mile Fitness Walk and Roll
2pm - FOOD, MUSIC, RAFFLES, SILENT AUCTION, and MORE
...

Proceeds to benefit the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group

Our Mission is, to improve the quality of life for those with spinal cord injuries, living in Northwest Indiana; through education, advocacy, peer support, and recreational outings.

Preregister by Monday September 13, 2010 to guarantee your shirt...

Day at the Races in Chicago with the sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation

2010-08-13T20:46:00.000-05:00

The August meeting

2010-08-09T23:31:00.003-05:00

Wow! What a good time. More people showed up than were expected. That's always a more welcome outcome than less people. Burgers and hot dogs were provided, and others ended up bringing many side dishes. There was good conversation all around, but the highlight for me was playing bags (cornhole) and Frisbee when Ben got his basketball chair out of his car. Thanks to all who attended. I'm looking forward to seeing you on September 5th, just three weeks before the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2010.

Here are a few picture from the August cookout meeting...

August Meeting and more...

2010-07-28T17:31:00.002-05:00

August is almost here and we hare having this month's meeting on Sunday, August 1st at my house Cookout Style.

I will supply the hot dogs and hamburgers, please feel free to bring a dish and tasty beverage of your choice. It promises to be a good time (weather permitting).

Please RSVP, so we know how many to expect.

Sunday, August 1st, 2010

Joe's House
1pm-?
1052 Joliet Rd
Valparaiso, IN 46383

Park across the street at McDaniels. Hope to see you there.

A few dates to save...

Spinal Cord Injury Walk - Sunday, September 26, 2010

Working 2 Walk, Science Symposium, Phoenix, AZ - November 11th -13th, 2010
(We are working on a possible fund raiser that would include a Grand Canyon hike immediately following Working 2 Walk this fall, please let me know if you are interested in attending one or both.)

Joe White
Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group
219-531-0055
nwiscig.blogspot.com

July Meeting and more...

2010-07-02T20:29:00.001-05:00

Hello all,

July is upon us and we hare having this month's meeting on Sunday, July 11th as not to compete with everyone's 4th of July Holiday plans this weekend.

Please RSVP, so we know how many to expect.

Sunday, July 11th, 2010

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria
1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383

Hope to see you there.

A few dates to save...

Spinal Cord Injury Walk, Valparaiso, IN - Sunday, September 26, 2010

Working 2 Walk, Science Symposium, Phoenix, AZ - November 11th -13th, 2010
(We are working on a possible fund raiser that would include a Grand Canyon hike immediately following Working 2 Walk this fall, please let me know if you are interested in attending one or both.)

Joe White
Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group
219-531-0055
nwiscig.blogspot.com

May Meeting and More

2010-03-31T14:20:00.002-05:00

Hello all,

We will be meeting again on Saturday, March 6. Please email an RSVP and come on out for some free pizza and good company.

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

Hope to see you there.

May's meeting will be Sunday, May 2nd... location TBA.

The following information was sent to me regarding current Spinal Cord Injury Research. Contact nwiscig@gmail for flyer attachments that can be printed as well.

----------------------------------------------------------

This is a SCI science summary prepared by Chris Connolly, Dennis Connolly, and Jon O'Connor.

Please see the attached SCI research information which updates the progress of the best researchers and independant publicly-held companies.

#1: CDRF history of spinal cord research (then & now). See ThenAndNow_newsletter1.pdf

#2: Reeve Irvine Center of primate research with Dr. Zhigang. This published and peer-reviewed nerve regeneration study is the first of its kind. The fact this is being done in a primate model is a big step from working with rats since the primate nervous system is complex and similar to ours. See ReeveIrvinePublication_newsletter1.pdf

#3: Dr. Tuszynski of UCSD who is working with chronically injured primates utilizing a combination treatment of bone marrow stem cell and growth-promoting proteins. See Tuszynski_newsletter1.pdf and Sci Res&Bioeng_newsletter1.pdf

#4: Dr. Karimi
Dr. Karimiof Toronto Canada is working on a combinational strategy for neural repair after chronic SCI. See Karimi_newsletter1.pdf

#5: Dr. Wise Young

Dr. Young is currently conducting clinical trials in China investigating the efficacy of umbilical cord blood transplants in the treatment of spinal cord injury.

Dr. Young has also been working with other leading neurosurgeons and directors of rehabilitation from across the US as well as two US companies to develop protocols for US-based human clinical trials. Preparations are being made for US Phase II trials to be initiated which will be the first human clinical trials for people with chronic injuries. These trials will help to asses the safety, feasibility and efficacy.

#6: Dr. Stephen Davies

Dr. Davies has been researching intensely for the last year plus and is currently peer-reviewing some new findings before making them public.

Dr. Davies' research focuses specifically on "1). Overcoming the effects of axon growth inhibitors found at sites of injury and throughout the environment of the injured adult central nervous system, 2) Development of glial restricted precursor derived astrocyte (GDA) technologies to generate specific types of astrocyte glia that are suitable for repairing the injured or diseased spinal cord and brain."

#7 Dr. Kerr

Dr. Kerr is currently working at Biogen, which is in Cambridge. He is also at Harvard. He has recently left John Hopkins.

Publicly held companies to keep an eye on include:

#1: Geron - out of Irvine, CA; this company has a scheduled Phase 1 human trial for the third quarter of 2010 utilizing stem cells. Hopefully this will move forward; the FDA cancelled their last scheduled trial.

www.geron.com

#2: Acorda Therapeutics - Acorda is a company based out of New York. Acorda focuses on SCI and MS predominantly. While they have some commercial stage therapies currently available for MS they are in the R&D and pre-clinical stage with a couple of therapies targeted at SCI.

www.acorda.com

#3: In Vivo Therapeutics; this company is based out of Boston and is currently petitioning the FDA for an acute human SCI trial for late 2010 or early 2011. Keep an eye on this one, very strong team.

www.Invivotherapeutics.com

2010-03-24T20:36:00.002-05:00

	Plan to join us in Phoenix for the 5th Annual Working 2 Walk Science & Advocacy Symposium, November 11-13, 2010. Featuring the latest research news from our leading scientists, hands-on advocacy workshops, and community networking opportunities, W2W is a unique event that you won't want to miss. After 3 years in Washington, DC, and our first regional event last year in Chicago, this is our first visit to the West Coast. We are excited to meet a new group of advocates and share the Working 2 Walk experience. In the words of a previous attendee, "Thank you so much for the opportunity to attend "Working 2 Walk. I enjoyed seeing the new research, networking with attendees, and speaking one on one with lead scientists. The experience was invaluable."

Our venue for 2010

is the Phoenix Airport Marriott, and our co-host is The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation. The Foundation and Unite 2 Fight Paralysis share a common mission to find a cure for spinal cord injury, and we are proud to join as partners in presenting Working 2 Walk 2010.

This will be an exciting year in the world of paralysis research. Several promising therapies should move to human clinical trials while laboratory breakthroughs continue around the world. We will be sharing the very latest and most accurate reports in Phoenix. For more information and event details as they become available, visit our Working 2 Walk web page.

Over the next few weeks, U2FP
will be upgrading our website to improve the visitor experience. Navigation, communications, event registration, and payment processing will all be enhanced, and we hope you enjoy the changes. The transition should be seamless for viewers, but please forgive any unexpected down time that might occur.

Working 2 Walk 2010

2010-03-24T20:26:00.001-05:00

	Plan to join us in Phoenix for the 5th Annual Working 2 Walk Science & Advocacy Symposium, November 11-13, 2010. Featuring the latest research news from our leading scientists, hands-on advocacy workshops, and community networking opportunities, W2W is a unique event that you won't want to miss. After 3 years in Washington, DC, and our first regional event last year in Chicago, this is our first visit to the West Coast. We are excited to meet a new group of advocates and share the Working 2 Walk experience. In the words of a previous attendee, "Thank you so much for the opportunity to attend "Working 2 Walk. I enjoyed seeing the new research, networking with attendees, and speaking one on one with lead scientists. The experience was invaluable."

	Our venue for 2010is the Phoenix Airport Marriott, and our co-host is The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation. The Foundation and Unite 2 Fight Paralysis share a common mission to find a cure for spinal cord injury, and we are proud to join as partners in presenting Working 2 Walk 2010. This will be an exciting year in the world of paralysis research. Several promising therapies should move to human clinical trials while laboratory breakthroughs continue around the world. We will be sharing the very latest and most accurate reports in Phoenix. For more information and event details as they become available, visit our Working 2 Walk web page.

	Over the next few weeks we will be upgrading our website to improve the visitor experience. Navigation, communications, event registration, and payment processing will all be enhanced, and we hope you enjoy the changes. The transition should be seamless for viewers, but please forgive any unexpected down time that might occur.

March Meeting and more...

2010-03-03T20:40:00.001-06:00

Hello all,

We will be meeting again on Saturday, March 6. Please email an RSVP and come on out for some free pizza and good company.

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

Hope to see you there.

If you're involved in any SCI related sports or hobbies, we'd like to hear about it.

If you have a job or go to school, we'd like to hear more about that too.

Please take the time to help us update our files by emailing the completed the questionnaire below?

___________________________________________

It's that time of year again. I am in the process of finding and updating contact information, and I thought I would throw in a little survey as well. Please reply with the missing information as soon as possible.

Name:

Address:

Phone:

Alternative email:

Your affiliation with SCIs or the NWI SCI Group:

Injury Level:

Injury Date:

Injury Cause:

Family members:

Do you have a degree? If so, in what/Graduation date?

Do you work? If so, where/job description/how long?

What are some of your hobbies or interests?

Do you or have you participated in any SCI adaptive sports or activities? If so, what/where?

Do you or have you participated in any rehab programs after your acute rehab hospital stay? If so, where/when?

Do you or have you attended any NWI SCI Group meetings? If so, what was/is your impression?

Do you or have you attended a NWI SCI Walk? If so, what was/is your impression?

Thank you for participating in this contact info update and survey. Please remember to contact us with any interesting, fun, educational, or exciting personal or spinal cord injury related news so we can pass it on to the rest of the group. We, as people with spinal cord injuries, are a rather sizable hidden minority in the local community and in the country. The more resources and networking connections we have, the better equipped we are to deal with all that life has in store for us. Please remember to check out www.nwiscig.blogspot.com for more information about the group and activities of the group.

Thank you for your time and consideration,

Joe White
Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group
219-531-0055
nwiscig.blogspot.com

Have you ever wanted to learn to fly?

2010-02-15T22:26:00.000-06:00

Able Flight and Purdue University have partnered for a unique flight training program for people with disabilities for this summer. All training, travel, and lodging expenses will be paid under the Able Flight Scholarship program. Students will live in accessible university housing and train in specially adapted aircraft. It will be possible for students to earn an FAA pilots license by the end of the 4-5 week training program.

A number of Able Flight scholarship recipients with spinal cord injuries have completed training and are now licensed pilots. You can see profiles of many of our Scholarship winners here: http://www.ableflight.org/scholarships/65.html.

Applications are available on the Scholarship page on Able Flight's website (http://www.ableflight.org/scholarships.html), and applicants are strongly encouraged to read the "Frequently Asked Questions" (FAQs) page as well.

Current or incoming Purdue students are given first priority for consideration, followed by Indiana high school juniors and seniors (must be at least 17 years old), Purdue graduates, and then other Indiana residents.

Please note that the training will be intensive and challenging, so only highly motivated applicants should apply. Applicants must also have a schedule that would allow them to spend up to 5 weeks in West Lafayette beginning in early June.

We appreciate your help in spreading the word on this opportunity.You should find answers to most questions on our website, but you may also feel free to contact me for additional information.

Best regards,
Charles --
Charles H. Stites
Executive Director

cstites@ableflight.org
www.ableflight.org
919-942-4699

2010-02-02T11:40:00.002-06:00

Feb. 26th the Chicago Bulls play against Portland, the Chicago Wheelchair Bulls will be playing at halftime. Cheap (standing room) tix are only $10.

http://www.nba.com/bulls/tickets/individual.html

Here are some pictures of a Wheelchair Bulls game in 2007

Paid Research Surveys

2010-02-01T23:16:00.002-06:00

Both the University of Michigan and the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago are currently conducting surveys for SCI's. They consist of 4 surveys that take 45 -60 minutes. U of M pays $100 total, RIC is a little more. That's $25 an hour plus.
Contact info is...

R I C
Ana Miskovic
312-238-0713
amiskovic@ric.org

U of M
Jane Walters
734-763-9773
janewal@umich.edu

For the U of M you have to be on their registry, it takes a few weeks.

February Meeting

2010-02-01T22:27:00.003-06:00

Hello all,

We will be meeting again on Saturday, February 6. Please email an RSVP and come on out for some free pizza and good company. We will be discussing ideas for fundraisers, and activities for later this year.

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

Hope to see you there.

January 2010 Meeting

2010-01-04T13:03:00.001-06:00

Hello all,

We will be getting together again for a post holiday meeting on Saturday, January 9th at...

Gary and Heidi's House

(Email nwiscig@gmail.com or call 219-531-0055 for directions)

I look forward to seeing you all again and hearing how you've all been for the past couple of months. This month will be a post holiday carry-in meeting. I will be supplying a spiral cut ham, but we need your help to truly make it a success. Please reply to all if you are willing to bring a side dish or desert. A big thanks goes out to Gary and Heidi for hosting and any one else who contributes.

We would like to get an idea of where the group is heading and what there is to do this year as far as activities, outings and fund raising opportunities, so bring your imaginations and your appetites this month.

See ya soon,

Joe White
Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group
219-531-0055
nwiscig.blogspot.com

December Meeting

2009-12-03T16:43:00.001-06:00

This month our meeting will be Saturday December 5th, 1:00 p.m. at

Pepe's of Merrillville

8011 Broadway

Merrillville IN 46410

29-769-7191

map/directions

Conveniently located near Westfield/Southlake Mall (shopping traffic ).

November Meeting

2009-11-05T11:43:00.001-06:00

This month we'll be going on the road

We'll be meeting:

Saturday, November 7th

1:00 p.m.

GELSOSOMO'S PIZZERIA

5184 N. Franklin St

Michigan City IN

Map/Directions

Hope to you all there, especially all of our LaPorte County friends.

We're looking to go to Lake County soon, any suggestions where will be greatly appreciated.

Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2009 Recap

2009-10-20T14:45:00.005-05:00

Saturday, October 10th, 2009 was the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2009. We couldn't have asked for a better October day this year considering the weather recently. In the middle of a two week stretch of rain and temperatures in the high 40s, we had a beautiful sunny day in the low to mid 50s.

There were 150+ people in attendance. After people registered and got their shirts, there was plenty of time to get a bite to eat, , listen to live music, and brownse the many silent auction items that were donated. It may have been a brisk trip around the track, but the hot coffee, hot chocolate, and warm hearts and personalities inside the pavilion was more than enough to make up for it.

We would like to take the opportunity to to thank all of our sponsors, volunteers,and the participants that made the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2009 such a success for the third year in a row. We look forward to gathering again next year to show our support and raise awareness and funds for spinal cord injury research, advocacy, and the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group.

2009-10-17T21:09:00.012-05:00

Hello everyone, Happy Halloween.

This month we'll be going on the road

We'll be meeting:

Saturday, November 7th

1:00 p.m.

GELSOSOMO'S PIZZERIA

5184 N. Franklin St

Michigan City IN

Map/Directions

Hope to you all there, especially all of our LaPorte County friends

We're looking to go to Lake County soon, any suggestions where will be greatly appreciated.

2009-09-27T18:50:00.004-05:00

October Meeting

Hello all,

We will be meeting once again on Saturday, October 3 2009 at...

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte AvenueValparaiso, IN 46383
map driving directions

Hope to see you there.

Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2009

2009-09-14T11:07:00.002-05:00

You have been invited to participate in the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2009!

This year we have seen some amazing developments with the passage of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act and the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act. Now is the time to press on and continue advocating for cure research.

The Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group is also growing as more spinal cord injured individuals become aware of our monthly meetings. The support we receive from each other in all areas of life is an invaluable resource for most of us.

We are asking for your support as a walker or a team leader in the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2009, so we may continue to support the research and advocacy needed to help future spinal cord injuries, and to keep the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group going strong to encourage those in the region living with spinal cord injuries to live happy, healthy and productive lives.

The Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2009 will be held on October 10, 2009 at the Old Fairgrounds Park in Valparaiso, Indiana from Noon to 4pm, with Cornhole/Bean Bag Toss Tournament to follow at 6pm. Map

Click here to pre-register for the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2009 online or go to sciwalk.info

Schedule of Events

Noon – 1pm Registration/T-shirt pick up

1pm – 2pm 5k/1.3 Mile Fitness Walk

2pm – 4pm Food, Music by Less than 11, Auction/Raffles

6pm Cornhole/Bean Bag Toss Tournament

-$50 registration fee

-1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place trophies and cash prizes

Click here to pre-register for the Cornhole/Bean Bag Toss Tournament online or go to sciwalk.info

Auction items include:

4 Box Seat tickets to a 2010 Gary RailCats game, a Chicago Blackhawks baseball bat signed by Stan Mikita and Ben Eager, a Chicago Bears baseball cap signed by Otis Wilson of the ’85 Bears, 2 Cubs ticket vouchers for the 2010 season, gift certificates from local restaurants and businesses, metal lawn sculptures from local artist, Cornhole board sets to name a few.

**If you are unable to attend but would still like to contribute, you can donate online here.

Attached are flyers and other information for the event. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Joe White
Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group
219-531-0055
nwiscig.blogspot.com

September Meeting

2009-08-24T12:47:00.000-05:00

Hello all,

We will be meeting again on Saturday, September 5th at...

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

Hope to see you there.

Save the Date

2009-07-18T16:42:00.030-05:00

Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2009

At the Old Fairgrounds Park
Butterfeild Pavilion
704 McCord Rd, Valparaiso, IN
October 10, 2009, Noon-4pm

Registration 12-1pm
Walk 1-2pm
Food/Auction/Music 2-4pm

proceeds to benefit
Unite 2 Fight Paralysis
the NWI Spinal Cord Injury Group
and Paralysis Research

To register or for more information email nwiscig@gmail.com
or call 219-531-0055

August Meeting

2009-07-18T16:21:00.003-05:00

Hello all,

We will be meeting again on Saturday, August 1st at...

Gary and Heidi's House

1pm-? (Featuring Lisa Sullivan's pork tacos)

Please call or email for directions

Hope to see you there.

May Meeting

2009-04-30T09:23:00.000-05:00

Hello all,

We will be meeting again on Saturday, May 2nd at...

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

Hope to see you there.

March Meeting

2009-03-06T18:23:00.002-06:00

We will be meeting again on Saturday, March 7th at...

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

This month we will be eating free pizza supplied by the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group and discussing some goals that we might have for the upcoming year including participation in the Chesterton Bicycle blast, the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2009, the Abilities Expo.

The February meeting was great, thanks to everyone who made it out. We'll see you this week.

February Meeting

2009-01-27T00:40:00.004-06:00

Hello all,

I hope everyone had a great holiday season. There is no doubt that most of us have settled back into the daily grind of life. Over the past few months, a few of us have gone to the Rehab Institute of Chicago for their "Second Look Program". Some have taken up new hobbies like scuba diving or gone on trips. Still others have gotten engaged, started school again, or started new careers. Hopefully we can all get together for some food, some stories, and good times.

It has been requested that our next meeting be in Laporte County. I figured why not?

So our February meeting will be on Saturday February 7th, 2009 at 1pm at...

Hacienda Mexican Restaurants

1pm-?

2148 N Karwick Road, Michigan City, IN 46360

http://haciendafiesta.com

(219) 879-4404

(219) 879-9489 (fax)

map

This is our first time meeting at the Hacienda, so please RSVP as soon as possible so I can call the restaurant and reserve the space needed.

See ya there.

Joe White
Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group
219-531-0055
nwiscig.blogspot.com

January Meeting

2008-12-26T00:38:00.003-06:00

We will be meeting again on Saturday, January 3rd at...

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

This month we will be eating free pizza supplied by the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group and discussing some goals that we might have for the upcoming year.

The December meeting was great, thanks to everyone who made it out. We'll see you next week.

2008-12-14T19:50:00.002-06:00

http://wheelchairbulls. com/schedule. html

A message from our friend, Ben, who plays for the Wheelchair Bulls...

"Our next games that are nearby will be at the holiday sports fest at McCormick Place the 27th & 28th. The Mayor's Office of Special Events presents Mayor Daley's Holiday Sports Festival, so save the date, it's FREE and begins Saturday, December 27 through Monday, December 29 at McCormick Place in Halls A & B (2301 S. Martin Luther King Drive), presented by the City of Chicago, Chicago Park District, and McCormick Place.
10a-4pm"

If you have never seen Wheelchair basketball in person, you should check this out. If you have, then you know what I mean. This is the most opportune place to go, too. There are so many sports at this Holiday Sports festival, it's ridiculous. Last year I saw sled hockey, and a ping pong tournament as well.

December's Meeting

2008-12-09T14:56:00.001-06:00

We will be meeting on Saturday, December 13th, 4pm at...

Kelsey's Steak House
2300 Morthland Drive
Valparaiso, IN 46383

(219) 465-4022
map

I am excited about this one... a little change is god sometimes.
It's our way of saying thank you for the hard work and/or Happy Holidays!

I need to have a head count for the reservation by Friday,
so if everyone could RSVP as soon as possible that would be great.

I hope to hear from you soon and see you on Saturday!

Joe White
Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group
219-531-0055
nwiscig.blogspot.com

Public Transportation to Chicago

2008-12-05T01:51:00.024-06:00

On November 7, 2008 I took my daughter on a trip to Chicago. We set out to Millennium Park, Rainforest Cafe, and Adler Planetarium using public transportation.

We started of with the South Shore Line train. Both the Dune Park, in Chesterton, and the Portage/Ogden Dunes stops are wheelchair accessible. I prefer Ogden Dunes, because there is a covered platform at that stop. Dune Park has an aluminum lift the conductor has to drag to the train and crank up by hand. It is functional, but it seems like just one more step.

Once at the Portage/Ogden Dunes stop, you make your way up the ramp and press the red button on the East wall. This signals to the train that they have to pull up to the platform. The train doors will open, conductor will come out and lower a small yellow "drawbridge". This surface was within about 4 inches of the train door. I just popped a wheelie over the slightly uneven gap.

When you get on the train, there is a seating area with one seat removed. I'm pretty sure there is a spot like this on each car. Some cars have restrooms. Unfortunately, the one we were in did not. This meant we got the adventure of changing cars through those little doors at the end. This is not a good idea while the train is moving. The Isles are plenty wide enough for most manual chairs, the doors are a tight fit though. While the train is moving the doors are moving side to side where the diamond plate floors are, and seem like they could easily damage a chair if you got cought in between them . We went through as the train was sitting at a stop and it worked out well.

Once I was in the other car, it was time to try the restroom. It was tight, but my chair fit so it wasn't as bad as an airplane restroom. If you want to get on to the toilet, you have to be able to do a 180 degree transfer.

As of right now, the 12th St./Roosevelt Rd stop is not wheelchair accessible. To get to the museum campus or Solider Field, you have to go to one of the last two stops and take a bus or a cab back up to that area.

We got off at the end of the line, Millennium Station/Randolph St. There is an elevator that brings you up on the corner of Michigan Ave and Randolph. To get to Millennium Park, you have to cross north, then cross east, then cross south... it's a city thing. We checked out the Sky Cloud, or as I like to call it the "Bean" and took some pictures. It started to drizzle and get cold, so we headed to Rainforest Cafe next for dinner.

We were going to take the El to Grand St, but to our dismay the Grand stop is not accessible. This meant we were limited to taking a bus, or a cab. Bus i twas, part of the decision to use public transportation was to save a little bit on money. The buses are pretty easy to use as long as you can understand the bus routs and the bus schedule. I am pretty new to this public transportation thing, but we were able to figure it out and got off the bus about 2 blocks from the Rainforest Cafe.

The Spinal Cord Injury Walk outcome

2008-09-24T11:00:00.003-05:00

Thank you to everyone that attended, donated to, or sponsored the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2008 on Sunday, September 21, 2008. We had a good turn out and beautiful day. So far the event has raised $11,000 for paralysis research, advocacy, and the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group.

We still have some t-shirts available for $10. Contact Joe at 219-531-0055 to get a one of a kind event shirt.

A few pictures from the walk can be viewed by clicking this slide show.

Joe

Spinal Cord Injury Walk/ Roll/Ride 2008 Registration

2008-08-24T20:04:00.009-05:00

Hello all,

The Spinal Cord Injury Walk/Roll/Ride 2008 is scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2008 and the preregistration deadline is right around the corner. Shirts are guaranteed if you are registered by September 12, 2008

To register, simply email or call with your name, address, phone #, and shirt size. If you are walking with a team, feel free to include your team name and goal amount as well. Then show up at the Old Fair Grounds Park at 12pm on September 21, 2008 ready to receive your shirt and walk, and have fun.

Walker Registration and Sponsor forms, and flyers can be found right here. Just click the alide show.

Last year more than 180 people attended the walk and it was a huge success. This year should be even better. It is a great way to raise awareness for spinal cord injuries, exercise, and spend time with family and friends. There will be live music, a silent auction, door prizes, food, and a 5k-fitness walk.

We are pleased to announce the addition of a poker run this year. For those of you who are not familiar with a poker run, it is usually done on a motorcycle and consists of a route with five stops. A playing card is received at each stop and the highest poker hand wins. The route for this year can be found on the attached flyer. Registration for the poker run is 10:30-12 at the Fair Grounds Park and ends at Martini's. The last bike must be in by 5pm and prizes will be given away at 6pm. There will be live music and food provided at the end.

Pictures of the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2007 can be found at http://picasaweb.google.com/nwiscig/SpinalCordInjuryWalk9292007.

The proceeds will benefit spinal cord injury research, advocacy groups and the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group. For more information call 219-531-0055 or email nwiscig@gmail.com.

I hope to see everyone on Sunday, September 21, 2008 for an unforgettable day of fun and fund raising!

Sincerely,

Joe White

Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group

219-531-0055

nwiscig.blogspot.com

Indiana Dunes State Park and the Chair

2008-08-12T09:57:00.008-05:00

Sunday, I went to get my Access pass for the national parks. I figured since I was almost all the way there, I would check out the dunes and see what they had to offer. A season pass for disabled visitors cost $18. That's half the price of regular season pass. We parked right up by the Pavilion/bath house and thought we would get something to eat. They have an elevator to the second floor, you just have to ask the ice cream girl or the life guards. The elevator is just inside the middle doors on the parking lot side of the building. Once on the second floor, You notice you are getting off in the back of the kitchen. Wheelchair accessibility sometimes means you get to roll through the behind the scenes stuff.

On the way to the elevator I noticed a crazy looking power chair in a closet. This peaked my interest, so I asked about it. This is a powerchair with tracks on it like a tank. It is meant for beach use and can be checked out if you have your ID and Can give up your chair for collateral. The life guard brought it around and I went for a stroll down the beach with my daughter for the first time in five years.
It was quite an adventure. I first noticed that something was not exactly right with the steering. It kept taking me much farther to the left than I wanted to go. It seemed that if I backed up a bit and tried again, it was alright. Upon further inspection, I noticed the little wheels kept spinning in the track. The track needed tightened up. We went to the sign where the state park meets Johnson's Beach and I thought I'd see if it goes up hill very well. Unfortunately it didn't go up hill very well. The wheels kept spinning... even if I tried to go up backwards. I figured I would turn around and try to go back to the pavilion when I just stopped going anywhere. I stopped going, because the track had come off of the right side.

I thought, "This is another fine mess I've gotten myself into." I was stuck on the beach in a really big power chair. I sent my daughter to the lifeguard station to get help While I just sat and enjoyed the beach. I also met quite a few people. I guess a power wheelchair that has tank tracks on it stands out in a crowd. I don't mind meeting new people, in fact it gives me a chance to talk about the group, give out a card and raise awareness a little. There were many helpful offers from passers by and the people around, however I thought I would just wait for the park officials to rescue me. I ended up using my cell phone to call the park office and request assistance. My daughter got to ride on the back of the 4-wheeler, which she loved. The DNR officers came shortly after. Together with the life guards they tipped the chair and put the track back on. Say "hi" to Officer Brandt and Officer Bruno.
Officer Brandt assured me that they would order new tracks and get the awesome beach char back in working order as soon as possible. If lifeguards are not on duty you can request the chair at the entrance gait or call the park office at 219-926-1952. All in all, it was a good day. Thanks to everyone who helped make it that way.

Wheelchair accessible beaches in Northwest Indiana

2008-08-07T12:17:00.005-05:00

I understand it's almost the end of summer, but there's always next year.

We have discovered a few little known facts about the Indiana National Lake Shore.

From the National Park Service website http://www.nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm ...

"The major sites in the park are accessible with assistance. The West Beach Bathhouse, the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education, and the Dorothy Buell Memorial Visitor Center are fully accessible by wheelchair. Accessible parking and restroom services are available throughout the park. A standard wheelchair is available for loan at the Paul H. Douglas Center.

Indiana Dunes has made significant achievements in providing access to beach areas. However, access to the waters of Lake Michigan pose challenging accessibility problems. Presently, these beach areas are accessible: West Beach, Lake View Picnic area, Dunbar Beach, and Porter Beach."

I have since found out that the lift at Lake View Picnic area has been abandoned due to numerous maintenance issues. West Beach has a ramp down to the beach and offers two beach wheelchairs for use on the sand. To request these chairs, call the Dispatch Center at 219-395-8640 or ask the booth attendant at the gate entrance. Driving directions to West Beach can be found here.

Another fun fact...

Access Pass

"America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass– Access Pass - Free (replaced the Golden Assess Pass)
This is a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. The pass can only be obtained in person at the Dorothy Buell Memorial Visitor Center or other federal recreation sites where it is accepted.

The Golden Access Passports will continue to be honored according to the provisions of the pass. Only paper version of the Golden Access Passports may be exchanged free of charge for new plastic passes.

Additional information on Access Pass"

I have heard that Washington Park in Michigan City, Indiana has a lift, yet I have not had a chance to look into that beach. I will update this page as soon as I find out more.

Have fun at the beach!

Joe

Movie update

2008-08-07T11:56:00.008-05:00

Success, Success!

We have had two movie screenings so far and they went quite well. When we organize something we always shoot for the moon and hope for the best. Our screenings went as follows...

Christopher Reeve: Hope In Motion on July 20th, 2008 had 48 people in attendance and...

Mapping Stem Cell Research: Terra Incogneta on August 3rd, 2008 had 55 people in attendance.

These are considered successes for many reasons. One being, people actually cared enough about the topic to show up. This exhibits tremendous support from the community, family, and friends. Two being the average of 53 people would not be able to fit comfortably in a living room or even conference room. If you were one of the attendees, thank you for the support and please take the time to comment about your experience. If you weren't there for the first two movies, we hope to see you at our next.

August 17th at 2 pm
MURDERBALL… Trailer

Murderball is an intimate and personal look at life in a wheelchair. The story chronicles the journey of the United States Para Olympic Quad Rugby Team from 2002 to 2004 ending in Athens, Greece with a championship game against their rivals from Canada.

Also...

Please reserve the date for the

Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2008

At the Old Fairgrounds Park/Butterfield Pavilion,

704 McCord Rd, Valparaiso, Indiana

September 21, 2008, Noon-5pm

The proceeds will benefit spinal cord injury research, advocacy groups and the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group.

Volunteers and sponsors are needed for this event also. Please contact nwiscig@gmail for more information.

I can email flyers for all events, but If preprinted flyers are needed I will try to get them to you as soon as possible.

Thanks for your help.

Joe White
Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group
219-531-0055
nwiscig.blogspot.com

August meeting and more

2008-07-25T15:23:00.003-05:00

We will be meeting again on Saturday, August 2nd at...

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

This month we will be eating free pizza supplied by the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group and discussing the details of the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2008. I have many flyers for everyone to hand out for each event and some Walk brochures so anyone interested can start getting donations. We still need as many business sponsors as we can get along with donated items for silent auction and raffle.

The Screening of Christopher Reeve: Hope In Motion on July 20 attracted 50 people. I consider that a success. We rented a theater with 150 seats, so there was plenty of room for more people. As I sat there looking across the crowd, I thought this is a bigger crowd than I could fit in in my living room. Everyone learned a lot and enjoyed it so much that when Part 2 started unexpectedly they just sat quietly and kept watching until the final credits rolled. It was perfect timing, because the theater had to be cleaned for the next movie.

Remember...

August 3rd at 2 pm
MAPPING STEM CELL RESEARCH : Terra Incognita… Trailer

This film puts a human face on this controversial subject. When neurologist Dr. Jack Kessler's daughter injured her spine in a skiing accident, he turned his energies toward finding a method to repair damaged spinal cords, re-focusing his research on developing a therapy using embryonic stem cells to regenerate the damaged parts of the nervous system. His research has taken him into a politically very sensitive area in which Catholic and fundamentalist Christian views about the beginning of life exert a powerful influence.

I hope to see as many of you as possible next weekend.

Joe

Movies, Movies, Movies, and more

2008-07-03T20:44:00.018-05:00

Hello,

My name is Joe White and I am very excited to announce that the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group is bringing three spinal cord injury documentaries to Northwest Indiana for free showings at the...

6550 US Highway 6
Portage, IN 46368

Donations will be accepted at the door.

Please spread the word about these films. They are all very entertaining, informative, and inspirational films that can be enjoyed by everyone. I personally think anyone with a SCI or anyone who knows someone with a SCI should see these films.

The movies are:

July 20th at 2 pm
Christopher Reeve: Hope in Motion… Trailer

This intimate portrait focuses on Chris's remarkable recovery of movement and his constant fight to fully regain his mobility. Following Chris closely over many months of treatment and public campaigning for funds for stem cell research, this film was completed shortly before his death and shows his struggle to keep his hope alive. Sadly, Chris died before his most fervent wish could come to pass. What emerges through this film is a portrait of an intelligent, determined, candid and outspoken man who was able to maintain his sense of humor in the face of adversity. His inspiring personality will shine through as you follow his unpredictable, emotional journey.

August 3rd at 2 pm
MAPPING STEM CELL RESEARCH : Terra Incognita… Trailer

August 17th at 2 pm
MURDERBALL… Trailer

*We are still looking for sponsors for these events. Please contact nwiscig@gmail for more information.

Also...

The Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2008 is scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2008.

The proceeds will benefit spinal cord injury research, advocacy groups and the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group.

Volunteers and sponsors are needed for this event also. Please contact nwiscig@gmail for more information.

I can email flyers for all events, but If preprinted flyers are needed I will try to get them to you as soon as possible.

Thanks for your help.

Joe White
Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group
219-531-0055
nwiscig.blogspot.com

Adaptive Waterski Clinic

2008-07-03T16:51:00.005-05:00

There will be an adaptive water ski clinic in Tin Lakes, Wisconsin on July 14th, 22nd, 23rd, and 24th. Twin Lakes, WI is about three hours from Valparaiso, IN. To be honest, the drive there, skiing, and the drive back makes for a long day. A long day that is well worth the effort and gas money in my opinion. I've been to at least ten of these clinics in the last three years and have had a great time almost every time.

From Waterskiing Twin Lakes 2007

July Meeting

2008-06-28T17:22:00.004-05:00

We will be meeting again on Saturday, July 5th.

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

This month we will be eating free pizza handing out information on the upcoming movies the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group will be presenting at the Portage 16 theater and the Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2008 fund raiser on September 21st. There are many new things on the horizon for the NWI SCI Group, input from all members is welcome.

Please contact nwiscig@gmail to rsvp.

August 2nd will be the next scheduled meeting.

The group meetings are open to anyone. Persons with or without spinal cord injury, friends or family, or anyone just wanting to learn more about spinal cord injuries are welcome.

We hope to see you there.

Joe

Working 2 Walk pictures

2008-06-28T16:01:00.008-05:00

Unite 2 Fight Paralysis, a national advocacy organization has posted pictures from the last four years of their Working 2 Walk Symposium/Rallies.

W2W is a three day event held in Washington DC, that unites the scientists working on a cure for paralysis and the patient advocates lobbying and raising awareness. For two days there is an exchange of ideas between the two groups, from which encouragement and inspiration grows. The third day is reserved for visiting your lawmakers and telling them what is most important to you, and urging them to support legislation that could have a positive effect on the lives of those living with paralysis.

All four can be found here or the slide shows are below.

Also, Kate Willette wrote an entertaining and informative blog that covered the entire event. You can find links to her blog by clicking here.

June Meeting

2008-06-05T22:34:00.005-05:00

This months meeting will be on Saturday, June 7th, 2008.

We will be trying something a little different this month. Instead of pizza, we're having a cookout with hamburgers and hotdogs at:

Joe's House

1pm - ?

1052 Joliet Rd
Valparaiso, IN 46385

Map

Please RSVP at 219-531-0055 or nwiscig@gmail.com, so we know about how much food to get.
It should be a good time. If you have any beverage requests, don't be shy. We'll see you Saturday.

Day at the Races

2008-05-16T14:19:00.011-05:00

May 15th, 2008 was the Day at the Races hosted by the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation. The day started out by making the drive from NW Indiana to Indianapolis, which is only about two and a half hours away. Once we got there we all met in a parking lot outside the Indianapolis Speedway. The foundation handed out all of our credentials, passes, and a bag filled with all kinds of goodies.

We were then escorted to the infield parking lot and taken to the Green/Andretti hospitality tent for a complimentary lunch. San Schmidt spoke during lunch about his injury and the drive to keep going even after such a life changing event. The Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation has set up a collage scholarship program for people with spinal cord injuries.

After hearing from Sam and the sponsors of the event, we got the chance to check out Sam's new van sponsored by VMI, and there was a meet and greet photo session with the Firehawk, James Davison, and Sam Schmidt. We got complimentary backpacks, hats, and t-shirts from UMP Urologicals.

Next we were taken to a wheelchair accessible bleacher area just before turn 2. The view is great from this area. We had the rest of the day to meander around the garage area, watch the time trials from the bleacher area, or from right behind the pits.
On behalf of the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sam Schmidt, the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation, and all off the volunteers and sponsors for the opportunity to attend the Day at the Races in Indianapolis.

Joe

Racing to Recovery

2008-05-16T12:44:00.010-05:00

This has been a pretty busy week. Monday, May 12th, was the Racing to Recovery Gala hosted by the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation . It was an interesting experience. I am amazed at what some people can do and put together to raise money and awareness for worthy causes. The evening was filled with awards, and silent and live auctions. I wish I had been more familiar with some of the drivers, because many of them came out to support the Sam and the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation.

Here is a link to the Indy Car Coverage.

Pictures can be found at samschmidt.org

If anyone is interested in attending this event next year, visit samschmidt.org or contact the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group by email next April for more information. It is an evening worth checking out, especially for race fans.

Joe

Working 2 Walk 2008

2008-05-16T12:24:00.006-05:00

If you couldn't attend this year's Working 2 Walk, Kate Willette wrote an entertaining and informative blog that covered the entire event. You can find links to her blog by clicking here.

Now a message from Unite 2 Fight Paralysis:

Dear Friends,

Just 2 weeks ago, Working 2 Walk 2008 concluded with legislative visits on Capitol Hill. Since we left Washington, there have been more than 400 new spinal cord injuries in the United States. Over the last 2 weeks. approximately $575 million has been spent caring for people with chronic spinal cord injuries.* Have you taken 5-10 minutes out of the last 2 weeks to phone or email your Senator's office and ask him/her to cosponsor the CDRPA?

We heard the message repeatedly at Working 2 Walk. Our researchers are excited by discoveries in their labs as they push forward to solve the complex puzzle of restoring function in the spinal cord. The biggest hurdle now is "translation" of laboratory principles to human application. The field of spinal cord injury is especially stymied by lack of 1. Coordinated Research; 2. A Clinical Trial Network; and 3. Funding.

The CDRPA addresses 1 and 2, and passage is within our grasp. Yes it is being held up by one Senator's hold, but we can apply pressure NOT by attacking that Senator, but by PERSISTENTLY communicating with our home state Senator's office about the urgency of this bill and asking him/her to cosponsor. If he/she is already a cosponsor, ask them to reach out to a colleague.

Can you spare 5-10 minutes ONCE A WEEK to contact your Senator and explain why this bill is so important? That we have been working for its passage for over 4 years? That precious time has already been lost waiting for its passage? What advancing research and restoration of even one level of function might mean to you?

Ask your friends and family to help you. Senate offices DO keep track of how many contacts they receive on a particular issue. Program your Senator's phone number into your cell phone, and follow up with a call ONCE A WEEK to see if they've signed on to the bill. The Senate is in recess May 24-June 1. Look for a Town Hall meeting in your area or schedule an appointment if possible.

Nobody else will do this for us. The message of Working 2 Walk was that the CDRPA is an essential and urgent first step to get curative therapies on the road to human application. All of the information you need on the bill itself, how to contact your Senator, FAQ's, etc. is available on the U2FP CDRPA web page.

Let's swing into action and see if we can get over 50 cosponsors signed on by June 15 (we're at 33 right now)!

Marilyn Smith, President
Unite 2 Fight Paralysis

*Source: Spinal Cord Injury Information Center. http://www.spinalcord.uab.edu/

Working 2 Walk 2008

We can't say it enough. HUGE Thank You's to:

- Our wonderful researchers who took time out of their busy schedules to bring us up to date on progress in their labs;

- The army of volunteers who worked hundreds of hours to take care of all the details that made W2W such a success;

- Our generous and supportive partners and sponsors, without whom W2W would never be possible.

Kennedy Krieger Institute
Sci-Step Inc
NWISCIG
Sam Schmidt Foundation
National Rehab Hospital
Acorda Therapeutics
Novartis
Alseres Pharmaceuticals
Pride Mobility
CSCIR
Integra Foundation
Restorative Therapies
Medtronics
Bioness
Project Walk
Craig Hospital
Push to Walk
Boston Medical
Next Steps Chicago
Determined2Heal

Working 2 Walk 2008

2008-04-13T22:42:00.002-05:00

We are in the midst of the W2W Symposium. Today was the Science Day and we have been mixing and mingling swith scientist and advocate from across the country. Tomorrow is the Advocacy Day when I speak in behalf of the NWI SCI Group and we brush up on our dos and don'ts of legislative meetings. I can't wait to tell you all about it during May's meeting.

Joe

Local Wheelchair Basketball Exhibition

2008-04-13T22:37:00.003-05:00

Wheelchair & Ambulatory Tennis Clinic

2008-04-13T22:18:00.002-05:00

Instructed by Two-time U.S. Paralympian Karin Korb

A Program of RHI Sports, Indianapolis Community Tennis Association
and sponsored by the Indianapolis Racquet Club

When: April 20th, 2008
9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. (Youth Session)
11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. (Adult Session)

Where: Indy Racquet Club
8249 Dean Road
Indianapolis, IN 46240

Instructor: Two-time U.S. Paralympian Karin Korb and member of seven U.S.A. World Teams. Ms. Korb was the first female athlete with a physical disability to receive a Division I athletic scholarship to play collegiate wheelchair tennis.

Who: Any youth and adult athletes as well as interested pros, potential mentors and volunteers who are interested in learning teaching techniques such as court movement strategies, wheelchair pushing techniques and proper tennis strokes

Cost: $10 for Everyone

RSVP: Please contact Pat Dean: pat.dean@rhin.com / (317)-329-2281 Or Julie Fritz: jlfritz58@sbcglobal.net / (317)-925-9775.

A Day at the Races 2008

2008-04-13T21:55:00.007-05:00

The Sam schmidt Paralysis Foundation has released it's calender of event for this year. The Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group is proud to be associated wit this organization. If you haven't ever been to an Indy Car time trial you ar in for a treat. The Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation Provides admitance to the track, lunch and a pit tour on 05/15/2008 for A Day at the Races. If you have been, than you know how much fun it can be.

Also consider the 9th Annual Racing to Recovery Gala Dinner on 05/12/2008.

Please contact me at nwiscig@gmail .com or Ida Cahill at icahill@samschmidt.org for more details.

Joe

March Meeting

2008-02-15T13:14:00.003-06:00

We will be meeting again on Saturday, March 1st.

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

This month we have a guest speaker. Lenita Y. Gipson from Hollister, Incorporated will be speaking about Urinary Tract Infections, proper technique, Insurance company issues, giving free samples, and free pizza. What more could you ask for.

Please contact nwiscig@gmail to rsvp.

April 5th will be the next scheduled meeting.

The group meetings are open to anyone. Persons with or without spinal cord injury, friends or family, or anyone just wanting to learn more about spinal cord injuries are welcome.

We hope to see you there.

Joe

Wheelchair basketball Feb 16-17

2008-02-15T12:57:00.003-06:00

Wheelchair basketball

WHEELER HOSTS YOUTH TOURNAMENT: Wheeler High School will host the Midwest Conference wheelchair basketball tournament this weekend. Round-robin play will be held in the prep (age 6-12), JV (early teens) and varsity (18 and under) divisions Saturday with bracket play Sunday. The field of 17 includes a Hammond-based team in the JV division and the Fort Wayne-based Turnstone Flyers, who are ranked second in the nation in the varsity division. Wheeler senior Jared Arambula is a member of the Flyers. Games will begin at 8:30 a.m. each day with the championships scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free.

http://nwi.com/articles/2008/02/15/sports/region_sports/doc252da5d2aa2b6a6b862573f000143a47.txt

ADAPTIVE SLED HOCKEY CLINIC

2008-02-13T12:09:00.006-06:00

RHI SPORTS

ADAPTIVE SLED HOCKEY CLINIC

WHEN: Saturday, March 8th

12:00 - 4:00 p.m.

WHERE: Ellenberger Park & Ice Rink

5301 E. ST. Clair Street

Indianapolis, IN

WHO: Anybody who wants to try out Sled hockey. This sport is more challenging for those who have decreased arm and hand coordination. However, we can always adapt the equipment if you want to try.

PRICE: $10 includes gear and lunch.

RESERVATIONS:

Please RSVP to:

Pat Dean via pdean@rhin.com

or call Pat at 317-329-2281 By

March 5^th

Basketball tournament this weekend

2008-01-16T13:25:00.000-06:00

Aurora Christian High School Locations

2255 Sullivan Road
Aurora, IL 60506

801 W. Illinois Avenue
Aurora, IL 60506

Saturday 1-19-08

9:00
Grand Rapids vs Bulls

Rockford vs. Ann Arbour

11:00
Grand Rapids vs. Indy
Bulls vs. Ann Arbour

2:00
Rockford vs. Indy
Grand Rapids vs. Ann Arbour

4:00
Rockford vs. Bulls

Sunday 1-20-08
10:00 Bulls vs. Indy

11:30 Grand Rapids vs.Rockford

1:00 Ann Arbour vs. Indy

For more information, contact Daniel Ferreira at danielferreira@chicagoparkdistrict.com

January Meeting

2008-01-03T12:40:00.000-06:00

We will be meeting again on Saturday, January 5th.

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

Please contact nwiscig@gmail to rsvp.

February 2nd will be the next scheduled meeting.

The group meetings are open to anyone. Persons with or without spinal cord injury, friends or family, or anyone just wanting to learn more about spinal cord injuries are welcome.

We hope to see you there.

Joe

Wheelchair Basketball

2008-01-01T17:19:00.000-06:00

I went to see the Chicago Wheelchair Bulls play at...

The annual Holiday Sports Festival, sponsored by the Mayor Daley's Office, the Chicago Park District and the host site, McCormick Place.

"Imagine the biggest indoor gym ever, then think even bigger than that. We're talking 1 million square feet of all-ages sporting events. The only thing you and the kids have to do is show up."

I didn't know much about it before I went, but there was golf, wall climbing, football, obstacle courses, a tot's zone, bowling, martial arts, table tennis, inflatable tumbling, fencing, badminton, boxing, fishing ponds, giant slides, skateboarding and bicycling and more. New this year they had cheerleading clinics, double-dutch jump rope and 2-ball. The event was wheelchair accessible and there was an adaptive sports area that included wheelchair basketball ans sled hockey.

Here are some pictures of the last game of the wheelchair basketball tournament, in which the Bullies took first place.

A Thank You from U2FP

2007-12-07T02:22:00.000-06:00

December 5, 2007

To Joseph White and the members of the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group:

Congratulations on the astounding success of your fund raising Spinal Cord Injury Walk. Not only did this event raise precious dollars for the paralysis community, it helped to spread awareness and visibility for our efforts to reach a cure. We at Unite 2 Fight Paralysis are proud and grateful to work with everyone at NWISCIG.

Please accept our most sincere thanks for your donation of $5,000 to U2FP. We hope that many of you will be able to join us at Working 2 Walk, our annual event in Washington, DC, that brings together members of the community to learn about the latest research and advocate for funding.

Once again, thank you for all of your hard work in reaching out to your local community. You have provided a model for advocates around the country.

All the best,

Susan Maus, Marilyn Smith & Betheny Winkler

Unite 2 Fight Paralysis Board of Directors

2007-12-02T17:46:00.000-06:00

Unite 2 Fight Paralysis has started promoting Working 2 Walk 2008. This is a great event that I have attended for the past three years. I am honored to be involved with Unite 2 Fight Paralysis and to have had the opportunity to meet with the scientists and politicians that directly influence paralysis research. For more information, please click the link below or contact Joe at nwiscig@gmail.com for a 2006 or 2007 W2W Symposium/Rally report.

Plan to join us for the 3rd annual Working 2 Walk in Washington

as leading researchers and advocates in the effort to find a cure for paralysis gather at the Kellogg Conference Hotel on the campus of Gallaudet University. The event will bring together members of the scientific, rehabilitative, and patient advocate communities for a lively exchange of information and ideas.

We have changed the Symposium’s format for 2008 and scheduled a variety of breakout sessions that will allow for small group discussions, increased opportunities for interaction between leaders of the various communities, and the ability to choose topics of particular interest. Following the first two days of meetings and workshops, leaders will visit Capitol Hill on Tuesday, April 15, to meet with legislators and discuss the costs of care vs. cure and the need for increased research funding.

Working 2 Walk is a unique opportunity that you won't want to miss.

“I want to thank you once again for inviting me. It was such an exciting day. It meant so much to me to meet so many advocates for SCI research and to hear everyone's story. I certainly feel a heightened drive to work on chronic SCI. I told my students after the event that I think every young researcher should attend this event.”

Dr. Juanita J. Anders, PhD, USUHS

Wheelchair Basketball

2007-11-30T22:38:00.000-06:00

Ben is playing basketball with the Chicago Wheelchair Bulls this year. They have a coup[le of home games and tournaments. Check them out if you get a chance.

2007/2008 Schedule

Date	Location	Record
10/20 Kids Camp 2007	Mozart Park - Chicago Park District
10/27/07-10/28/07	Champaign
11/10/07-11/11/07	Home
11/18/07-11/19/07	Rockford
12/7/07-12/9/07	San Antonio
12/15/07-12/16/07	Home
1/11/07 - 1/13/07	Birmingham
1/19/08-1/20/08	Home
2/1/08-2/3/08	Lexington
2/23/08-2/24/08	Kids Day 2008 NEDSRA
3/1/08-3/2/08	Home

***Champaign, IL 10/27 - 10/28

Saturday 10/27

1:00 pm ________ vs. Champaign Fire (Conference)

7:00 pm ________ vs. U of I Men

Sunday 10/28

10:45 am ________ vs. RIC Hornets (Conference)

Games played at the IMPE Building which is near Memorial Stadium

If interested in playing in the Home Tournaments please contact Joe Gerardi at jfg28@aol.com

A free movie screening

2007-11-30T09:39:00.000-06:00

Terra Incognita 2007

Terra Incognita is a feature length documentary film and companion civic engagement campaign featuring the story of Dr. Jack Kessler, the current chair of Northwestern University's Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurological Sciences, and his daughter, Allison, an undergraduate student at Harvard University. When Kessler was invited to head up the Neurology Department at Northwestern, his focus was on using stem cells to help cure diabetes. However, soon after his move to Chicago, Allison -- then age 15, was injured in a skiing accident and paralyzed from the waist down. In the moments following the accident, Dr. Kessler made the decision to change the focus of his research to begin looking for a cure for spinal cord injuries using embryonic stem cells. Through Kessler's story, we bring the stem cell debate to the public for discussion. The film follows the constantly evolving interplay between the promise of new discoveries, the controversy of modern science and the resilience and courage of people living every day with devastating disease and injury.

Please contact us if you'd like to host a community screening of the film.

90 minutes

Saturday, December 15th 2:00pm
Chicago Cultural Center
78 E Washington St
Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 744-6630
Get directions

"Terra Incognita" screening
Join Kartemquin and Independent Lens for a Community Cinema screening of Kartemquin's recent stem cell documentary, "Mapping Stem Cell Research: Terra Incognita."
admission is free.

I will most likely be going to see this movie again. It is a great documentary that is both touching and informative. Contact me at nwisci@gmail.com for more information about possibly riding together.

The film will also be broadcast nationally on PBS' Independent Lens on January
15th.

Joe

Scuba Diving

2007-11-24T02:08:00.001-06:00

I would like to know who is interested in Scuba Diving lessons with the Scuba Tank, here in Valparaiso. They have offered an Experience Scuba Clinic to the NWISCI Group and maybe special lessons to interested parties. It sounds like a great life experience to me. Anyone interested can contact me at nwiscig@gmail.com for more information. Their website is www.scubatank.com, check it out.

December meeting

2007-11-24T01:57:00.000-06:00

We will be meeting again on Saturday, December 1st.

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

Please contact nwiscig@gmail to rsvp.

The group meetings are open to anyone. Persons with or without spinal cord injury, friends or family, or anyone just wanting to learn more about spinal cord injuries are welcome.

We hope to see you there.

Joe

November/December Meeting

2007-11-04T15:45:00.000-06:00

Saturday, November 3rd was the last meeting. We had six people attend. It was a good time. We talked about everything from the SCI Walk, to going to school, to parenting, to falling out of your chair, to ADA and wheelchair accessible vs. handicap accessible, to water skiing and snow skiing, to scientists/researchers, to relationships, to insurance/Medicare. Just to name a few topics.

We will be meeting again on Saturday, December 1st.

Gelsosomo's Pizzeria

1pm-?
2605 Laporte Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
map | driving directions

We hope to see you there.

jOE

Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2007

2007-10-03T23:21:00.000-05:00

The walk was a great success! I would like to thank everyone that came out to participate, and all of sponsors and volunteers that made it possible.

We met a lot of new people, got some exercise, had some good food, won some awesome items donated by local businesses and artists, listened to some good music, and raised just over $13,000. When we combine that with prepaid sponsors and do some more math, that's around $15,000 to split three ways. The Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group, Unite 2 Fight Paralysis, and paralysis research will all benefit from everyone's hard work and cooperation.

Here are some pictures from Mike Gard and a few from Jennifer Aitchison. Check back frequently for future postings, and meeting dates and times.

Thanks,

Joe

Sci-Step

2007-08-26T22:16:00.001-05:00

In the third week of August Ben and I took advantage of the free week that Sci-Step offers. I thought it was an awesome experience.

Sci-Step describes their therapy program as an "Activity based recovery program"

"In the past, rehabilitation after a spinal cord injury focused on adaptation to the injury. It was believed that the possibility of improvement would occur during the first six months and that recovery more than two years after an injury was unattainable.

Over the last few years, experts committed to the philosophy that with the right combination of therapies, recovery is possible - even months or years after an injury, helped changed the future for individuals suffering from a spinal cord injury.

SCI-Step offers these proven techniques to acute and chronic spinal cord injuries, allowing the ability to recover independence, movement and sensation, as well as, attain improved health and quality of life." Sci-Step.com

	Functional Electrical Stimulation
	Gait Training
	Weight Bearing
	Cardiovascular Conditioning
	Orthodic Training
	Isolated Muscle Movements
	Strength Training
	Aquatic Therapy
	Acupuncture
	Massage Therapy
	Nutrition Counseling

We got there on Sunday and were very impressed by the housing that Sci-Step provides. There was a note on the table that read, "Welcome Joe and Ben. See you in the morning." We had a two bedroom apartment with all the comforts of home. On top of that, the complex has a pool, computer center, and a small movie theater that can be reserved.

Now the therapy...

We got to Sci-Step in the morning, finished some paper work and got right to work. The physical evaluation was almost like a workout for me. Matt stretched and tested the strength in my legs and then asked me to demonstrate my walking.

A little history about my function... I have a C6/7 incomplete spinal cord injury. This means that I have some sensation and motor function below my injury level. I can stand and even walk short distances with a walker. Unfortunately for me this also means that I have uncontrollable muscle spasms that make my legs shake, bounce and even contort into strange and painful positions. I take a fair amount of medications to combat that on a daily basis.

Up until this point I had been able to walk about 30 feet at a time with a walker, then I was done. That's about what I did. Then Matt says that we are going to try wall squats and gets one of those exercise balls. With Matt's help I did 20 wall squats and made it back to my chair. Now I 'm thinking that we're probably done. Nope, it's time to ride the "Ergys2" FES (functional electrical stimulation) bicycle. They put 12 pads on my legs and rear, set me up in the bike, and turned on the electrical stimulation. I have enough sensation that I could only handle an E-stim level of 30. That makes me "hyper sensitive". It takes a level of about 130 to cause a contraction strong enough to move the large leg muscles, but even at 30 there was a tingly zapping feeling that helped me initiate a muscle contraction. I rode this bike for an hour, helping my legs move the peddles around. I liked the RTI FES bike a little better. It works off of the same theories, but has a motor to help your legs around when your muscles fatigue. Now I was done. What a first day. My lower back, glutes, and legs felt like they were on fire. Interestingly enough I almost forgot to take my meds. Usually I can tell time by the way that my body feels and how soon I'm supposed to take my meds. This ended up being a theme for the week. My muscles were so relaxed that I didn't feel like I really needed my antispasmodic meds.

Our days in Mason, OH went just like that. We would get up, work out for three hours, eat lunch, head back to the apartment, and I would have to lay down for a while. Later we got the chance to enjoy the pool in the apartment complex.

My experience at Sci-Step showed me that I could control my spasms and strengthen my muscles at the same time, if I had the resources. I almost forgot... It wasn't all work and no fun. On Wednesday I got my first acupuncture treatment and on Thursday I got my first full body massage.

Maybe I can get Ben to comment on his experience at Sci-Step...?

jOE

Adaptive water ski clinic, Twin Lakes WI

2007-08-07T23:14:00.003-05:00

There was a pretty good turn out for the clinic. I went on August 1st and 2nd. It was a blast. The clinic was open to kids of all abilities and ages. Adaptive Adventures and Dreams For Kids also had a hand cycle vendor there and kayaks to try.

Water skiing is one of my favorite things to do since my injury, but there were a few people that have expressed concerns about how safe it is. The people organizing this clinic have done so for 12 years and take every safety precaution necessary. For beginners or people with little to no hand function or trunk control. They have a sit ski with outriggers. This makes it nearly impossible to tip over.

They also have a "chase boat", that follows all of the skiers. This boat has volunteers that are ready to assist in any way needed. For questions or a more detailed description, email or call. I will leave you with a few more pictures from the event.

Joe

September Meeting

2007-08-07T22:45:00.001-05:00

Our September meeting will be on August 25th. The first weekend in September is Labor Day Weekend and many people already have plans.

We will have the meeting at my house, 1pm. Email nwiscig@gmail.com or call 219-531-0055 for directions or more information.

Thanks,

Joe

Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2007

2007-07-20T11:07:00.000-05:00

Walk Those Who Can't

Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2007
At the Old Fairgrounds Park/Butterfield Pavilion
704 McCord Rd, Valparaiso, Indiana
September 29, 2007, Noon-5pm

Noon- turn in pledge envelopes/hand out shirts
1pm- 5k/3.1 mile fitness walk (that’s only 4 times around the track)
3pm- Information, food, music, raffles and a silent auction in Butterfield Pavilion

*Proceeds are to benefit Unite 2 Fight Paralysis, paralysis research, and the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group.

The Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group: Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those with spinal cord injuries living in Northwest Indiana, through education, advocacy, peer support, and recreational outings. www.nwiscig.blogspot.com

A few spinal cord injury facts…

Every 41 minutes, another American sustains a spinal cord injury resulting in paralysis. This translates to an estimated 11,000 new injuries annually.
The average age at injury is 38, with 56% of all injuries occurring between the ages of 16 and 35. Young adults reaching the peak of their earnings potential.
In addition to paralysis, secondary conditions resulting from a spinal cord injury include compromised respiratory, bowel, bladder and sexual function as well as chronic urinary tract infections and pressure sores.
The estimated annual direct costs of care for Americans living with paralysis due to spinal cord injury are $15 billion. One of the costliest conditions in our country.
Spinal cord injury knows no boundaries. In a split second it could happen to you, a family member, friend, or neighbor.

Sources: (1) Spinal Cord Injury Information Center, http://www.spinalcord.uab.edu/
(2) Care Cure; www.sciwire.com

For more information email nwiscig@gmail.com

or call 219-531-0055

Rally for the Cure: Chicago

2007-07-10T23:06:00.000-05:00

Rally Hits the Road: Chicago

Sunday, September 9, 5:00 p.m.

Navy Pier, Grand Ballroom

Featuring

Second City Comedy and Special Guests

Honoring

Sam Schmidt, IRL Race Car Driver

Dr. Jack Kessler, Northwestern University,

Dr. Wise Young, Rutgers University

2:30- 5:00 p.m.

Update on spinal cord injury research

Presentations by Dr. Jack Kessler and Dr. Wise Young.

5:00- 7:30 p.m.

Hors D’ Oeuvres- Silent Auction- Awards- 2nd City Performance

Tickets: $125/ person

Attire: Business to Cocktail.

Directions to Navy Pier: http://www.navypier.com/

All Proceeds to Benefit Spinal Cord Injury Research

Striving From Laboratory towards Human Application

For more information contact: Next Steps SCI Rehab

To purchase tickets online or sponsor the event

708.467.0657 nextsteps1@aol.com

Contributions are tax-deductible per IRS codes

One week of free physical therapy at SCI-Step

2007-07-08T12:16:00.000-05:00

They are a facility where determined individuals can concentrate on their recovery using the most advanced equipment combined with crucial rehabilitative components and the knowledge of dedicated medical professionals specializing in physiatry, physical therapy and exercise physiology.

SCI-Step is now offering a free trial weel of physical therapy, with housing, to those with spinal cord injuries. The staff is very friendly and accomodating. Located in Mason, Ohio , they are close enough to make the trip worthwhile.

Below is a quote from the SCI-Step website:

"Being in DC and meeting all the wonderful individuals gave me the inspiration to do more. We are now offering one week at no cost to anyone interested in trying out our program. We want everyone with an SCI to have the ability to experience all the beneficial components necessary for SCI recovery and health maintenance. Whether you come for a week or decide to stay longer, we want to help in any way that we can. For more information and to receive an application, please email me at mbrock@sci-step.com.
Already had a trial? We would love to have you here again!" -Michele Brock, Sci-Step.com

Spinal Cord Injury Walk 2007

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We are in the process of planning a fundraising walk for late September. The proceeds from this walk will benefit spinal cord injury research, Unite 2 Fight Paralysis, and the NWI spinal Cord Injury Group. Many volunteers will be needed to keep things in order. Please contact nwiscig@gmail.com for more information.

Joe

Meetings

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The Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group meets on the first Saturday of each month, at 1pm. Officially we meet at Porter Hospital's Education and Rehabilitation Center, 1401 Calumet, Valparaiso, IN. We have also been known to go to Gelsosmo's, in Valparaiso, to get lunch. Visit this site for updates on when future meetings will be.

Joe

A Day at the Races - September 8th, 2007 - Chicagoland Speedway

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"The Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation's Day at the Races program is again planning a Day at the Races program at Chicagoland Speedway.

The program is designed for people with spinal cord injuries to spend a day at the Speedway. For many guests it will be their first visit and the first time to watch IndyCar qualifying and races. The day is designed to be informal but one that is fun filled.

Lunch takes place in the Andretti Green Hospitality Tent where Sam Schmidt will address the guests and answer questions relating to his spinal cord injury, how he overcame his many challenges and his career as an IndyCar driver and now an IndyCar Pro Series Team Owner. Ida Cahill, President / CEO of the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation, will describe the work of the Foundation and provide resource materials.

Following lunch everyone will take a tour of the garage and pit areas and have the opportunity to meet IndyCar drivers and team owners. Space is limited. For further information contact the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation." http://samschmidt.org/

I got the chance to attend the "Day at the Races" in Indianapolis this June, and it was a great time.

Joe

Adaptive waterskiing in Wisconsin

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One of my favorite things to do since my accident, is water ski. There are two groups that host adaptive water ski clinics.

The Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana hosted one on June 6th and 7th, in Cicero, In.

The second clinic is hosted by Adaptive Adventures and Dreams for Kids. It will be held in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin on July 24 and July 31 - August 2.

These clinics usually have a fee of only $5, include lunch, and are open to all disabilities.

Water skiing is one of the few things that make me kind of forget about my wheelchair for a little bit. I urge everyone to check it out.

Joe

Welcome to the Northwest Indiana Spinal Cord Injury Group.

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This site was set up to keep people informed about the activities of the group. Whether it be the days and times of our meetings, events and outings, or new information about a cure for paralysis; it will be posted on this site. Our hopes are that the group grows and more people feel empowered to live happy, healthy, productive lives. Please feel free to leave comments and/or contact us at nwiscig@gmail.com.