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SCI and Activities

For More Information contact: OPVA Hospital Liaison,

After having a spinal cord injury, many people look to athletic or artistic activities as rewarding past times. What kind of activities are available? Well, what kind of things do you like to do? The sky is the limit. In every state, there are organizations that teach people with spinal cord injuries new ways to participate in sports and the arts. Some of the sports include swimming, basketball, skiing, weight lifting, tennis and rugby. Each state seems to have its own highlight. For example, Rhode Island has a program for adapted sailing. Colorado offers courses in disabled skiing.

All over the United States, Disabled Sports USA provides recreational services to people with disabilities. Their programs involve both adults and children. Check out their website at www.dsusa.org. There are many programs available in which you can develop your skills and talents. There are even competitive programs for many of the sports.

The Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offer programs as well. They are open to everyone; you don't have to be a veteran to be involved. Each year, they put all in the largest wheelchair sporting event in the nation -- the National Veterans Wheelchair Games. Find out more at their website - www.pva.org.

Each year, Oregon PVA hosts a Walk, Run and Roll. It is aimed at raising public awareness of the abilities of those with SCI and to provide an opportunity for wheelchair athletes to excel.

Becoming involved in wheelchair athletic events promotes your self-image, raises your fitness level, boost your self-confidence and increases your independence. There's nothing to stop you but yourself.