When someone first gets a SCI, they usually go through a period of rehabilitation after the initial hospital stay. This includes occupational and physical therapy which is crucial to learning the basics of taking care of your body, moving around independently, and using a wheelchair or other mobility aids. Dealing with such a life-altering injury can also affect emotions and motivation making it harder to fully engage in recovery, and it can lead to poor outcomes and inability to reach your full potential and goals. 

 

Hospital and rehab stays are becoming shorter or families may not live near a spinal cord injury center. This results in lack of support and resources, yet teens with SCI/D need extra help that goes beyond the hospital and rehab. Community and peer support is important because it can help you develop pride a sense of identity and pride, improve your health and well-being, and keep you moving towards your personal goals. 

 

There are not many programs specific to teens with SCI/D but here are three for you to check out this summer. These programs by BACKBONES, True Grit SCI, and Empower SCI are available for adolescent and young adult patients after hospitalization and offer peer support.