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A Chapter of the United Spinal Association
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My Kinda Party ...
Was a HUGE success!
Thank you to all who attended and our sponsors.
Mobility Works
Elite Care Management
Coloplast
Corboy & Demetrio
Ron and Diana Nawrocki
Monica Scalise was awarded the James E. Smittkamp Award.
The Jah Moe Band was awarded The Kara Foundation Award.
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Bank of America Chicago Marathon
October 8, 2017
We are thrilled to have our team, Run For Those Who Roll, participate in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in 2017. If you have your own marathon entry, you can still join our team!
Its easy to support our runner!
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Interested in getting
more involved with
SCIA?
Become a member of our association!
Are you Spinal Cord
injured?
Membership is
free to those who are
spinal cord injured.
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James l. Decker
November, 2016
Thomas E. Cusack
January, 2017
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Tuesday, March 28, 2017 @ 5pm
Christ Hospital Support Group
Oak Lawn, IL
Wednesday, July 26, 2017
SCIA Golf Outing
Gleneagles Country Club
Lemont, IL
Sunday, October 8, 2017
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
Come cheer on our team!
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Power Wheelchair- Quatum Q Logic QB Reclining Power Wheelchair. Black- 5-6 years old with a head rest, right side joy stick. Chair battery is 1 year old. Seat size 20" X 23" (goes under back rest).
Contact jimandlind@att.net
2012 Van- Black 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan mini van with side ramp, power open, lowered floor, no hand controls. 16,250 miles.
Contact jimandlind@att.net
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You Can Support SCIA, and it won't cost you a penny!
Are you an Amazon shopper? Amazon will donate 0.5% of the price of your purchases to Spinal Cord Injury Association of Illinois whenever you shop
AmazonSmile. Visit
www.smile.amazon.com/ch/36-3149036 and select SCIA as your charity of choice. Its easy and won't cost you a penny!
SCIA is a member of the Combined Federal Campaign, an employee giving program. Campaigns are currently going on, so ask anyone you know who works for the federal government, including your mail carrier or anyone in the military, to consider designating SCIA as the recipient of their contributions. Our ID number for federal government employees is 48552.
*Remember SCIA when making any memorial contributions or honoring birthdays, weddings, graduations, or other special occasions. Contact us for memorial contribution envelopes.
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MaKeathon- Great Opportunity
This is a 72-hour marathon where a product is designed and built to solve a solution.
In a 72-hour time frame, engineers and designers are paired up with people of various abilities to come up with a physical solution to a real life challenge. The marathon is 72-hours and the product is designed and built within this time frame.
Last year, a mouth grabber was designed for a person who was born without arms and legs. This piece of equipment helped the person use her mouth to grip and move objects. For more examples and information, please see the attached and / or go to
http://www.makeathonnu.tomglobal.org/ .
If you know someone in your network that would be interested in having a team come up with a product that can provide a solution to one of their challenges, please forward this email to them and have them contact
For more information click HERE
Please note, here are the important
dates to remember are:
1. Application deadline - March 22
2. Selection - March 31
3. Introduction to the team - Week of April 10
4. Makeathon @ Kellogg - April 28 - 30
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Losing health care benefits is not an option
A note from United Spinal
Many people with disabilities may lose their health services and benefits! Many lives may be at stake!
We refuse to return to the DIS-ABLING past when people with a disability could not get adequate health care. We have fought hard and long for change and refuse to be victimized and marginalized once more by misguided policy making. Contact your elected officials now!
The House of Representatives is expected to introduce a bill to cut Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and to begin committee work on a replacement immediately. The result would be two major blows to individuals with disabilities.
- Because of the ACA, health insurers can't deny health insurance if you have a disability or chronic condition - the pre-existing condition protection.
- Because of the ACA, there aren't arbitrary financial limits to how much health care you can get in a year or in your lifetime.
- Because of the ACA, more people with disabilities receive supports and live in the community, not institutions.
- Loss of home and community-based services and supports. Waiting lists would quickly grow.
- Loss of other critical services such as personal care, mental health, prescription drugs, and rehabilitative services. If funds become more scarce, states may decide to stop providing these services altogether.
- Being forced into unnecessary institutionalization. States could return to the days of "warehousing" people with disabilities in institutions.
- Health care costs being shifted to individuals or family members to make up for the federal cuts. The costs of providing health care and long term services and supports will not go away, but will be shifted to individuals, parents, states, and providers.
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United Spinal Survey
Our unified voice in Washington can make a difference on the issues that matter to you. We count on people like you to guide us by letting us know what matters to you. Please take a few minutes of your time to fill out United Spinal's 2017 Public Policy Survey.
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Mobility Works New Location
On February 27, 2017 Mobility Works moved from Skokie to Niles.
*Their new location is
9207 North Milwaukee Avenue Niles, IL 60714.
A note from Regional Manager Joseph Canda:
The team you know and love is still here to help you find the solution that best fits your physical needs and lifestyle. In addition, our NMEDA 'QAP' certified service department is always here to ensure trouble-free operation of existing adaptive equipment.
Whether you're in the market for a new vehicle, just want to take a peek at the new Pacifica or need a mobility maintenance, our team is here to ensure you connect with what matters most.
Please contact us at 847-673-4300 with questions regarding our move or to schedule your next service appointment at our new location.
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Self-Help Center Biennial Conference
The Self-Help Center's Biennial Conference is Friday, April 7 at the Hawthorne Suites in Champaign. Please refer to the attached brochure for more details.
We have a great day lined up for you with engaging, knowledgeable speakers who will bring their expertise in Communication and Connection.
We are most pleased to have as our special guest and keynote speaker Dr. Elaine Shpungin, Founder and Director of Conflict 180 Consulting. Her key note address is entitled, "Listening Underneath: Three Keys to Turning Conflict Into Connection". Our break-out sessions also feature speakers who are experts in their field. Please refer to the attached document for a description of the sessions.
On-line registration will be opening soon! 6 CE's are available for this event. You may also register by printing the attached brochure and mailing or faxing to the address/number below.
Family Service
405 S. State Street
Champaign
, IL 61820
217-352-0099, ext. 144
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American Association of People with Disabilities
Visit www.aapd.com to learn how AAPD works to improve the lives of people with disabilities by acting as a convener, connector, and catalyst for change, increasing the political and ecomonic power of people with disabilities.
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Survey:
Employment of individuals with disabilities and the role of assistive technology
Researchers at the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of New Hampshire are conducting a survey to research focusing on employment of individuals with disabilities and the role of assistive technology. The survey is designed to examine the usability and cost benefits of assistive technology at workplace.
If you have a disability, are employed or self-employed and require an assistive device or technology to fulfill their work, please take a look at this survey.The findings of this survey is expected to have implications for improving employment opportunities and productivity of individuals with disabilities through the implementation of assistive technology.
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Manual Wheelchair User App
The University of Pittsburgh is doing a study on a new app for manual wheelchair users and are looking for participants.
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Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
A note from Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center
Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC) Releases Two New Factsheets
The MSKTC has released the factsheets, "Adaptive Sports and Recreation" and "Exercise After SCI." Cheri Blauwet, MD and Jayne Donovan, MD, both of the Spaulding New England Regional Spinal Cord Injury Center (SNERSCIC), authored the resources. The factsheets emphasize the important role that exercise and adaptive sports and recreation activities can play after a spinal cord injury. "Adaptive Sports and Recreation" describes different types of sports and sports equipment, and can be accessed here. "Exercise After SCI," which provides tips for getting involved in and planning exercise activities, can be accessed here. Both factsheets are available in English and Spanish and may be reproduced and distributed freely with appropriate attribution.
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Gizmos Fun Factory Special Needs Time
Gizmos is a 47,000 square foot family fun center that just opened in November. Starting February 6, Gizmos Fun Factory is closing to the general public the first and third Monday of each month from 4 pm-8 pm (day and time subject to change during holidays and school breaks).
Individuals with special needs and their families can enjoy 4 hours of unlimited play on our 7 major attractions for $20 per participant. Each participant will also receive a $10 game card to use on over 70 different arcade games. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes for the attractions and socks for Tinker Tot Toyland.
If you have a group of 50 participants or more, each participant will be only $15. We also offer group parties for birthdays and other small outings with 13 people or more. Please contact Shelby Lalich at s.lalich@gizmosfunfactory.com for more information.
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Embracing Inclusion
Embracing Inclusion: People With Disabilities Enriching the Workforce is our new publication. Our goal is to erase many of the negative stereotypes affiliated with people with disabilities trying to obtain gainful employment. Embracing Inclusion is a collection of photographs and profiles of people with a disability as they see themselves in the workplace.
A soft-bound book of 96 pages of glossy, four-color print, personal stories are shared to offer a visual composition demonstrating that those with a disability in the workplace need not be disabled. Introduced by Dr. Temple Grandin, President George H. Bush, Senator Tom Harking (retired) and actor Robert David Hall, all share their thoughts on the employment of people with disabilities.
Inclusion was written to:
* Allow potential employers a look at a positive workforce with a
wide range of abilities.
* Give employment counselors an instrument to demonstrate
successful work situations.
* Give parents an inspiring look at potential opportunities for
their child with a disability.
* Encourage others with a disability that self-worth, income,
and professional enrichment can exist through employment.
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Easy Reach Toilet Seat
The Easy Reach toilet seat was designed to mitigate multiple risks that are involved in a healthcare facility. Our mission is simple: Easier care and better quality of life. We want to ensure that your staff and your patients are both operating in a safe and convenient environment. Below we have listed out what we believe are the most valuable features for you and the benefits that come along with them.
A note from the inventor, Jason Derrington:
Six years ago I reached a turning point in my life; I was shot multiple times
while being in the wrong place at the wrong time. It left me paralyzed from the waist down and has changed the way I function in every day life. After being instantly humbled, I struggled with the difficult task of living life in a wheelchair. For instance, I was stuck in an airport bathroom and let's just say it was a horrible experience! These circumstances led to the fruition of my invention, the Easy Reach. I have persevered throughout the creation of my product and have now started the manufacturing process, along with receiving my first pre-orders. If you would like to learn more information about the Easy Reach toilet seat, or how to pre-order my product, please contact me through the form below. I am currently looking for distributors.
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Got Healthcare?
A note from United Spinal Association
Reach out to your Senators and Representatives today to let them know why the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicaid are essential to people with disabilities and their families.
Take Action:
Call your Senators and Representatives today 202-224-3121.
Now is the time for ACTION, every call matters!
What to Say:
- I am your constituent.
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- I am a person with a disability or I am a family member of someone with a disability or I am a professional in the disability field.
- Do NOT repeal the ACA without a replacement that maintains or improves coverage and protections.
- Do NOT allow change to the structure of Medicaid - cuts to Medicaid must not be part of any ACA replacement.
- The ACA and Medicaid helps me/my family member to have health care and community based services.
URGENT TAKE ACTION TO PREVENT GUTTING OF THE ACA AND MEDICAID
The House of Representatives is expected to introduce a bill to cut Medicaid and the ACA on February 27 and to begin committee work immediately.
You must reach out to your Senators and Representatives to let them know why the ACA and Medicaid are essential to you and your families.
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AD Mirror System
AD Mirror Systems® are manufactured of high-grade, sealed 1.0" and 0.5"stainless steel. Four types of complete systems are available; the Home Mirror System®, Trooper Mirror System®, Foot Mirror System, and Hospital Mirror System®.
A clear viewing area is provided by a 6.5" × 7.5" sealed mirror, with adjustable rotation and elevation, with the Mirror Systems®. The curved structure, shaped like a branch, is designed to lean at a slight angle, thereby applying light pressure to the mast section. When placed where needed, it remains there, without the need for cams, levers, knobs, or other devices to secure or tighten it. The ability to easily assemble and adjust the mirror is useful to patients with dexterity and arthritic issues. The mast sections are of various lengths and can be interchanged, providing the patient with an assortment of mirror heights. The horseshoe base allows the unit to be placed under or between the bed's box spring and the mattress. The assembled mirrors are left in place to allow for easy set-up and access. The base is also designed for use under a wheelchair or furniture. The unit can be used in the bathroom and shower or packed into a large suitcase for travel.
The Trooper Mirror System® has the same capabilities and qualities as the Home Mirror System®. However, it is lighter and fits into a backpack for camping and outside activities.
The Trooper Mirror System® can be used by patients with diabetes mellitus who require a high mirror position to closely view the bottom of their feet or other areas of their body with skin issues.
The foot inspection mirror (Foot Mirror System®) is designed to allow easy inspection of the feet.
or call us toll free at
1.888.959.6770 extension 102
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SCI Support Groups:
For those who are injured and their families.
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Advocate Christ Medical Center
Spinal Cord Injury Peer Support Group
4440 W. 95th Street
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Resumes
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 5:00pm
Rehab Gym 026S
Ground Floor
Contact Mercedes Rauen at SCIA
Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hosptial
Lives In Motion
26W171 Roosevelt Road
3rd Floor Therapy Gym
Wheaton, IL 60187
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 6-7:30pm
Speaker: Dan Tun, Dare2Tri
Contact Monica Scalise for meeting dates and locations
Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago at Homewood
1055 W. 175th Street, Homewood, IL 60430
Meets 4th Wednesday of the month at 6:00pm
or
Brenda Canning at 312-238-1137
SCI Support Group Rockford IL
Van Matre Rehab Hospital
950 S. Mulford Road
Rockford, IL 61108
Outpatient Gym
Meets the second Wednesday of each month @ 6:00pm
S.C.I.P Support Group
Heartland Health Care Center
444 W. Harrison St
Decatur, IL
Meets FIRST Thursday of each month 6:00pm
217-877-7333
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Hope Clinic Support Group
3137 Woodward St
Springfield, IL
Contact Christie Davis for more information
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SCIA Board of Directors
Vice President
Beth Gorman
Treasurer
Patricia Genardo
Directors
William Bogden
Patricia Collins
Colleen Glucksmann
Stephanie Krakauer, PT
Annie Krueger
Sarah Milcarek
Patricia Mucia
Jurate Neuman
Mike Pigoni
Chirag Shah, M.D.
Past President
Monica Scalise
Medical/Scientific Advisory Board
Roy Adair, M.D.
William Adair, M.D.
David Chen, M.D.
Michelle Gittler, M.D.
Jeffrey Oken, M.D.
Lawrence Vogel, M.D.
Staff
Mercedes Rauen, Executive Director
Kimberly Houston, Administrative Assistant
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The SCIA newsletter is an informational resource only. SCIA neither endorses nor recommends services provided by any of the sources listed therein.
SCIA Newsletter edited by Kimberly Houston.
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