Fragility to Resilience

On World Spinal Cord Injury Day, we are reminded to raise awareness, advocate equal opportunities, and support dignity, rehabilitation, and inclusion for millions living with spinal cord injuries

- ANIL RAJPUT

The Spinal cord is one of the most critical parts of the human body. The 'World Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Day' is observed annually on September 5 to raise public awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with spinal cord injuries and to promote inclusivity and prevention. This global initiative was established by the International Spinal Cord Society (ISCOS) in 2016 to encourage better support for those affected and to highlight the need for appropriate care, rehabilitation services, and preventative measures.

Active participation and support are essential in promoting awareness around spinal cord injuries. In this regard, the 'Illness to Wellness Foundation' (ITWF) is dedicated to promoting holistic well-being by raising awareness through health education, sustainable hygiene, lifestyle changes, and blending ancient wisdom with modern technology. Launched in 2014, the Illness to Wellness (ITW) Campaign focuses on preventive care and creating a healthier India through education and community engagement. The campaign raises awareness about key health issues, including personal hygiene, especially handwashing in schools, mental wellness, and lifestyle-related diseases. Through community engagement and educational programs, the campaign has expanded its reach across multiple states, striving to build a healthier and more informed India.

The role of the spinal cord is to conduct information from the brain to the periphery and vice versa. It is organised segmentally, with 31 pairs of spinal nerves emanating from it. An injury to the spinal cord may disrupt this conduit between the body and brain and can lead to deficits in sensation, movement, autonomic regulation, and death.