In a powerful display of resilience and community spirit, over 100 wheelchair users and approximately 500 participants gathered at the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) Auditorium to commemorate Spinal Cord Injury Day. The event, which also marked the culmination of the fourth edition of National Injury Prevention Week (September 1-7), was organized under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India. It served as a vibrant platform to raise awareness about spinal cord injuries (SCI) while emphasizing the importance of prevention, rehabilitation, and comprehensive care.

Throughout the week, spine care experts and representatives from 14 national spine care societies engaged in an array of activities, including outdoor sports, cultural performances, seminars, webinars, and panel discussions. These efforts sought to support individuals living with spinal cord injuries, showcasing both the challenges they face and the successes they achieve.

The highlight of the event was the participation of over 100 wheelchair users in sports such as Wheelchair Table Tennis, Boccia, Wheelchair Racing, and Wheelchair Hurdles. The spirit of competition was accompanied by an inclusive health check-up camp, while the day culminated in a high-energy cultural program featuring wheelchair dance performances and professional wheelchair stunts, captivating the audience both in-person and via live stream.

Prof. (Dr.) Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, expressed the urgency of preventing spinal cord injuries: "Spinal Cord Injury Day reminds us of the importance of prevention, as no amount of rehabilitation can fully restore a life free of disability. Many of those affected are young people whose lives are forever altered by preventable accidents. We must reflect on our actions and prioritize safety, especially among the youth." He also praised the participants for their courage and resilience, dubbing them "brand ambassadors" for spinal injury prevention.

Dr. Harvinder Singh Chhabra, President of the Spinal Cord Society and Chief of the Spine and Rehabilitation Centre at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, also emphasized the significant progress in spinal care and rehabilitation. "This year's National Injury Prevention Week has underscored the courage of individuals living with spinal cord injuries. Our collective efforts in prevention, early intervention, and comprehensive care are vital to improving the quality of life for those affected. We are committed to advancing spinal care through education, research, and support, ensuring dignity and fulfillment for all."

As part of the observance, experts and survivors came together to share their stories of recovery and triumph over adversity. One such inspiring story was shared by Red Bull adventure sports expert Fabian Lentsch, who spoke about overcoming a spinal injury sustained during paragliding in Ladakh. His journey highlighted the psychological aspects of recovery, shedding light on the power of the human spirit.

The significance of injury prevention was further reinforced by statistics from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), which reported that 16,397 people lost their lives in road accidents in 2021 due to not wearing seat belts. This alarming figure underscores the need for ongoing efforts in raising safety awareness and reducing preventable injuries.

The week-long event also featured an array of engaging activities aimed at promoting awareness, including online competitions, panel discussions, and a webinar exploring the psychological impact of spinal cord injuries. On September 5th, Spinal Cord Injury Day was celebrated at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, with inclusive dance performances and wheelchair activities further showcasing the indomitable spirit of individuals living with SCI.

National Injury Prevention Week 2024 has been a beacon of hope, bringing together healthcare professionals, survivors, and the community to promote safety, rehabilitation, and support for individuals with spinal cord injuries. The event not only highlighted the importance of prevention but also celebrated the remarkable strength and determination of those affected, reminding us all that with the right support, life after injury can be both meaningful and fulfilling.