New Statistics Reveal True Extent Of Spinal Cord Injury

14 Nov 2005

Media Release - 14 November 2005

The Minister Responsible for the TAC, John Lenders, today launched Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Week, to raise awareness about spinal cord injury and to highlight its true impact on individuals, families and the community.

 “On average last year, a person sustained a spinal cord injury every four days, and as a result are now living with paraplegia or quadriplegia, with a third of those injuries caused by road trauma,” Mr Lenders said.

“And so the TAC welcomes the opportunity to work in partnership with ParaQuad in promoting this week - encouraging people to talk about what it means to have a spinal cord injury and what can be done to prevent one.”  

CEO of ParaQuad Peter Prendergast added that spinal cord injury was particularly prevalent among young people.

“It’s always so disturbing to see the number of young people who end up with a permanent disability like a spinal cord injury, as the result of a preventable road trauma.

“It is so vital for our community to educate young people about risk prevention.”

Mr Lenders said people could take significant steps to protect themselves from a spinal cord injury on the road.

“The most important safeguard is to always wear a seatbelt if you are travelling in a car or full protective gear if riding a motorcycle.

“This is followed closely by not drinking and driving or riding, not speeding and pulling over at the first signs of fatigue.

“But this week isn’t just about prevention; it is about people getting involved, reconnecting with their communities and being acknowledged for their achievements despite their injuries.

“Sometimes these achievements are as simple as participating in a familiar activity or trying something new.”

Activities held throughout Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Week include: a golf day hosted by the Daddo family, a 'rock and roll' challenge hosted by Metropolitan Fire Brigade Running Club and the Hand Cyclists Association and a rugby exhibition hosted by Wheelchair Sports Victoria.