SCIO: World War Veterans rebuild lives, one victory at a time

D I D Y O U K N O W ?

WWII Veterans Founded Spinal Cord Injury Ontario (SCIO)

Honouring our Canadian soldiers holds special significance for those at Spinal Cord Injury Ontario (SCIO). William Adair, Chief Executive Officer, Spinal Cord Injury Ontario writes:

"I would like to take a moment to invite you to honor Canadian soldiers. As we are aware, the Canadian Paraplegic Association (CPA), which is now known as Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, was founded by World War II veterans who sustained a spinal cord injury during battle. These soldiers returned to Canada determined to help each other re-engage in civilian life, and, to enjoy the freedom they fought to protect for all countries around the world. Indeed they did a darn good job of it, establishing Lyndhurst Lodge as a rehabilitation center dedicated to helping these very soldiers rebuild their lives, and eventually helping civilians who sustained an SCI rebuild their lives as well.

Spinal Cord Injury Ontario can be very proud of the difference we continue to make in the lives of people who regain their rightful place as citizens in our communities. Last year, we assisted 2,136 Ontarians with rebuilding their lives, some of these individuals are Canadian veterans who sustained an SCI in the line of duty. It is fitting that we all take a moment November 11 to remember the contribution veterans have made to the freedoms we enjoy in Canada, and also to feel proud of the role we play in helping Ontarians rebuild their lives, one victory at a time. SCI Ontario continues the meaningful work of an organization started so many years ago by World War II veterans.

I invite you to visit our web site to view the video where Ken Langford tells his story of leading a Canadian Platoon in battle breaking through the German border in 1945. Ken sustained an SCI in this very battle, he returned to Canada and became the Managing Director of CPA and Lyndhurst Hospital for over 30 years. We need look no further for a true hero to our Mission."

F A C T S l

• There are 600 new spinal cord injuries every year in Ontario (more than one a day).
• Current estimates indicate that there are approximately 33,140 Ontarians living with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Spinal Cord Injury Ontario champions excellence in service, advocacy and quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries www.sciontario.org

R E F E R E N C E S l

1. http://www.sciontario.org/story/g-kenneth-langford