National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month

Support spinal cord injury awareness during September! Nearly 300,000 Americans live with spinal cord injuries. Research advances and advocacy improve quality of life for those affected.

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National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month - Support spinal cord injury awareness during September! Nearly 300,000 Americans live with spinal cord injuries. Research advances and advocacy improve quality of life for those affected.

About National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month

Support spinal cord injury awareness during September! Nearly 300,000 Americans live with spinal cord injuries. Research advances and advocacy improve quality of life for those affected.

History & origins

National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month is observed in September in the United States. Its exact origin is not fully clear, but a 2018 U.S. Senate resolution recognized September as National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month to improve treatments and resources for people living with spinal cord injuries. The observance is closely tied to advocacy and rehabilitation organizations such as the Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems and the MSKTC, which share education and research-based resources each September.

Why it matters

This observance highlights a major public health issue: spinal cord injuries can cause lifelong mobility, sensory, and independence challenges, and they affect hundreds of thousands of Americans. It also draws attention to research, accessible design, and disability rights, all of which can improve daily life not only for people with SCI but for families, caregivers, employers, and communities.

How to celebrate

Support SCI research. Learn about spinal cord injuries. Improve accessibility. Advocate for disability rights. Share survivor stories.

Facts

Nearly 300,000 Americans live with SCI
17,000 new cases occur annually in the US
Motor vehicle crashes cause 38% of SCIs
Research is advancing treatment options
Accessibility improvements benefit everyone

Frequently asked questions

When is National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month in 2026?

National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month in 2026 is observed throughout September 2026. It is a month-long observance rather than a single-day holiday.

What is National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month?

It is a month dedicated to increasing understanding of spinal cord injuries and the needs of people living with them. The focus is on education, research, accessibility, and long-term support.

Who started National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month?

The exact founder is unclear, but the observance was formally recognized in 2018 by a U.S. Senate resolution. Advocacy and rehabilitation groups helped popularize it through awareness campaigns and resources.

How do you celebrate National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month?

You can support SCI research, learn about spinal cord injuries, and share survivor stories. Improving accessibility and advocating for disability rights are also meaningful ways to take part.

Is National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month an official holiday?

No, it is not a holiday. It is an awareness observance in the United States that encourages education, advocacy, and support for people affected by SCI.

Help others discover this day by sharing it.