In a resounding show of solidarity and awareness, over 300+ participants came together for a wheelchair rally on Spinal Cord Injury Day organised by Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi in collaboration with the Spinal Cord Society, Spine Wellness & Care Foundation, Association of Spine Surgeons of India and 11 other National Societies with support of Director General of Health Services, Government of India. The event highlighted this year’s global theme — “Fall Prevention – Spinal Cord Protection” — and highlighted the significance of awareness, prevention and enabling modern technologies in the spinal cord care.
The rally was flagged off by local MLA Karnail Singh and Raj Kumar Gupta, President in the presence of senior doctors, community leaders who witnessed the commendable participation from the persons with spinal cord injuries who turned the spotlight on resilience and inclusion.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr H.S. Chhabra, Director, Spine & Rehabilitation Services, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi said, “Spinal cord injury can happen to anyone, anywhere and consequences of the same are life changing. It is very unfortunate that awareness regarding the prevention and rehabilitation remains very low in our society. Through initiatives like today’s wheelchair rally, we want to give a strong message that spinal cord injuries are preventable and with the help of right care, technology and support system individual can live meaningful and productive life. Our focus should be on prevention through fall safety, road safety and early medical intervention alongside to empower those who are already affected”
Alongside medical experts and rehabilitation team also educated the public on preventive measures, early interventions and modern technology that can transform the lives of those who are suffering from spinal cord injury.
The rally concluded with an interactive session where all the participants shared their experiences and doctors emphasised upon the role of advanced, modern technologies such as advanced wheelchairs, exoskeletons, and digital rehabilitation tools in restoring independence.