Every year, more than 12,000 people in the United States sustain a spinal cord injury. A spinal cord injury / disease (SCI/D) changes a person’s life in an instant, and can have life-changing consequences.

What is a spinal cord injury / disease?

More than 5 million Americans are living with paralysis, one in 4 of them a result of spinal cord injury or disease. The spinal cord is the major channel through which motor and sensory information travels between the brain and body.

When injury or disease of the spinal cord occurs, conduction of sensory and motor signals across the site of lesion(s) is impaired, resulting in loss of motor and/or sensory function. To further define, tetraplegia refers to impairment of function in the arms as well as the trunk, legs and pelvic organs. Paraplegia refers to impairment of arm functioning is spared and trunk, legs and pelvic organ involvement is dependent of the level of injury.

Injuries are classified as incomplete if partial preservation of sensory and/or motor function is present below the level of injury, to include sensation at the lowest segment of spinal cord; and complete when sensory and motor function is absent in the lowest segment of the spinal cord.

Life Expectancy & Symptoms

Prior to the 1970’s, life expectancy for people with SCI/D was significantly reduced, mostly because of urological or respiratory infections. Since the improved management of infections, life expectancy has increased; however, respiratory diseases and septicemia remain the leading cause of death for individuals with SCI/D. It is important for caregivers and clinicians to recognize atypical signs and symptoms of infection, including, but not limited to fever, chills, spasms, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue as warning signs of infection in individuals with SCI/D.

Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD)

Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) is a preventable condition that can result in death if not quickly treated. Those with spinal cord injury at the sixth nerve of the thoracic spine or above are most commonly at risk, and in some cases the seventh and eighth nerve. AD can affect individuals with complete and incomplete injuries.

Common signs and symptoms of AD include sudden/significant elevation of blood pressure, severe headache, profuse sweating, goosebumps, blurred vision, seeing spots, flushed skin, nasal congestion, slowed pulse, tightness in chest, and anxiety. If any of these are experienced, emergency treatment must be initiated to include: sit up or raise head to 90 degrees and remain upright until blood pressure is normal, based on individuals baseline blood pressure; check/empty bowel or bladder; loosen or remove tight clothing; monitor blood pressure every 5 minutes; and call health care professional, even if symptoms resolve.

Spinal Cord Disease

In addition to those injured traumatically, neurologic impairment of the spinal cord (myelopathy) may predominantly occur in diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), benign or malignant tumors, spinal stenosis, arterio-venous malformations, epidural abscess, and other vascular, inflammatory, or infections of the spinal cord itself.

Similar to spinal cord injury, spinal cord disease causes various patterns of deficits depending on which nerve tracts within the spinal cord or which spinal roots outside of the cord are damaged. Common warning signs of spinal cord disease include paresis, loss of sensation, change in reflexes, and autonomic dysfunction (bowel/bladder, erectile dysfunction, loss of ability to sweat).

Spinal Cord Injury / Disease Care

With increased longevity for persons with SCI/D, co-morbidities such as metabolic disease, endocrine disease, and musculoskeletal disorders are becoming increasingly common and require comprehensive specialty care for the prevention or early detection of health complications seen in the aging population.

Within the Veterans Health Administration, the Spinal Cord Injury and Disease System of Care provides an interdisciplinary team approach to manage the physical, psychological, environmental, and interpersonal support of individuals living with SCI/D. At the onset of rehabilitation and throughout life time, this comprehensive system of care helps individuals with SCI/D attain, preserve, and enhance the health and quality of life.

Publications: Clinical Practice Guidelines

Clinical practice guidelines provide recommendations for healthcare specialists based on evidence-based research conducted by the Consortium for Spinal Cord Medicine. Click here for free downloadable PDFs.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system, and is the most common neurolgical disorder in young adults. It is a chronic disease that is often disabling, but isn’t fatal. Most people with MS live productive lives and learn to cope with their symptoms and limitations. Click here for more information.

What is ALS and what causes it?

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease) weakens and eventually destroys the body’s motor neurons, making functions such as walking and talking very difficult. Paralysis quickly results.

While the exact cause of ALS is unknown, risk factors include aging and a family history of the disease. Most people who contract the disease are between the ages of 40 and 70, though younger people can also contract the disease.

Click here for more information.

SPINAL CORD RESEARCH & EDUCATION

More than 750,000 people in the United States, including veterans, live with spinal cord injury or disease (SCI/D). Paralyzed Veterans of America (Paralyzed Veterans) supports research, educational programs, and other initiatives that unite people and activities toward a single mission: improved quality of life for everyone with SCI/D.

Click here for more information.

Events in June 2025

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
May 26, 2025(1 event)


May 26, 2025

Northwest PVA

Memorial Day Programs

May 26, 2025

We are pleased to share that the Northwest Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (NWPVA) will again be sponsoring wreaths for each of the War Memorials on the Capitol Campus. Our thanks go to NWPVA for coordinating this beautiful display. This year Joy Cochran, Kevin Ferguson and Neal Gardenhire will represent NWPVA and will place each wreath. If you are in the Olympia area and would like to join our Memorial Day Wreath Walk, we will begin at 9:30am at the WWII Memorial. The WWII Memorial is located near the beginning of the North Diagonal parking area. After we stop at the WWII Memorial, we will walk to the WWI Memorial, then over to the Vietnam Memorial and we will end at the Korean War Memorial which is across Capital Way. Parking is usually wide open at this time (1225 Capitol Way S. or 1115 Water St. SW Olympia, WA 98501).

Following the wreath laying, there will be a Memorial Day Ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda sponsored by the Thurston County Veterans Council. Music begins at 10:30am and the program begins at 11am. The Vietnam Vets Legacy Vets Motorcycle Club is also holding an event at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Motorcycles will arrive around noon, and the ceremony begins at 12:20pm.

We are pleased to share that the Northwest Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (NWPVA) will again be sponsoring a wreath at Seattle’s Garden of Remembrance. This year James Lauck and DeeAnne Cooper will represent NWPVA and will place a wreath on site. We will begin at 10am Location is the Outdoor Garden at Benaroya Hall, 200 University Street, Seattle, WA.

May 27, 2025(1 event)


May 27, 2025

May 28, 2025
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Jun 1, 2025
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Jun 7, 2025
Jun 8, 2025(1 event)


Jun 8, 2025 Jun 13, 2025

Jun 9, 2025(1 event)


Jun 8, 2025 Jun 13, 2025

Jun 10, 2025(1 event)


Jun 8, 2025 Jun 13, 2025

Jun 11, 2025(2 events)


Jun 8, 2025 Jun 13, 2025


Jun 11, 2025

Jun 12, 2025(1 event)


Jun 8, 2025 Jun 13, 2025

Jun 13, 2025(1 event)


Jun 8, 2025 Jun 13, 2025

Jun 14, 2025
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Jun 19, 2025(2 events)


Jun 19, 2025

SCI Dayroom- 4pm – 6pm PST

1660 South Columbian Way

Seattle, WA 98108-1532

Jun 20, 2025
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Jun 27, 2025
Jun 28, 2025(1 event)

Jun 28, 2025

Date: June 28th, 2025 @ 9 am

Place: Paul Bunyan Rifle and Sportsman’s Club, 17902 Meridian E. Puyallup, WA 98375

RSVP: Include below information when you RSVP before June 14, 2025, at www.northwestpva1977.com

  • Each shooting participant's full name (Member, Caregiver & Family Member).
  • Each non-shooting participant's full name (Member, Caregiver & Family Member).
  • Type of shotgun and rounds bringing.

 

Trap Shooting: A Day of Camaraderie, Competition, and Clay Pigeons!

Sharpen your skills and prepare for an unforgettable day of marksmanship and fun—because the Northwest Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (NWPVA), in partnership with the Paul Bunyan Rifle and Sportsman’s Club, is bringing back the long-awaited Trap Shoot Competition!

On June 28th, Sportsmen and Sportswomen will gather at the Paul Bunyan Rifle and Sportsman’s Club in Puyallup, WA, where the thunderous crack of shotguns will echo through the air as participants take aim at flying clay pigeons. Whether you're an experienced shooter or a first-time participant, this event promises a thrilling challenge, great company, and a welcoming atmosphere for all. This event isn’t just about who has the best eye and reflexes—it’s about community, competition, and connection. Designed to be fully accessible, the trap shoot welcomes wheelchair participants and their families. So, whether you’re taking your best shot or cheering from the sidelines, there’s fun to be had by everyone!

🎯 Here’s what you need to know:

Date: June 28th, 2025. Please arrive by 9 am.

  • Range Briefing: 10 am, Paul Bunyan Rifle Sportsman’s Club Staff
  • Location: Paul Bunyan Rifle and Sportsman’s Club, 17902 Meridian E. Puyallup, WA 98375
  • Capacity: 30 total participants
    • 20 spots reserved for wheelchair shooters.
    • 10 spots for Caregivers or Family Members.
  • Format: Two rounds of shooting (shotgun rounds are provided).
    • 12 & 20 gauge shotguns will be available onsite for participants.
    • You can also bring your own shotgun & ammo.
    • Each participant will fire 25 shots per round (50 total).

No cost to enter— Just bring yourself and Family Members for a fun-time event.

🏆 Prizes and Competition
Do you have what it takes to claim first place bragging rights? There will be awards for the top three shooters, so bring your A-game and see how your skills stack up!

🍔 Food & Facilities A Day
A day outdoors calls for good food and good company! During the event, there will be plenty of food and refreshments, ensuring that participants and spectators alike can relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Accessible restroom facilities are available to ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible.

📢 Spread the Word & Secure Your Spot!
With only 30 total participant slots available, sign-ups will fill fast—so don’t miss your chance!

Please send RSVP No Later Than June 14th to NWPVA at www.northwestpva1977.com, by referencing the Paul Bunyan Rifle and Sportsman’s Club Trap Shoot. Be sure to include all relevant participation details below with your RSVP:

  • Each shooting participant's full name (Member, Caregiver & Family Member).
  • Each non-shooting participant's full name (Member, Caregiver & Family Member).
  • Type of shotgun and rounds bringing.

"Your input is invaluable in ensuring we can fully prepare for the event and accommodate all attendees. Thank you for your time and assistance!"

Jun 29, 2025
Jun 30, 2025
Jul 1, 2025
Jul 2, 2025
Jul 3, 2025
Jul 4, 2025(1 event)

Jul 4, 2025

Meet at Northwest PVA Chapter @7am for Registration
616 SW 152nd St, Burien, WA 98166
RSVP by June 23, 2025; katiejoy.cochran@gmail.com

Jul 5, 2025
Jul 6, 2025