Unite 2 Fight Paralysis originated from a simple discussion on an internet message board in early 2005. Members were adrift after losing their most visible advocate and spokesman, Christopher Reeve. What if they – ordinary people affected by paralysis – met in Washington and lobbied for paralysis cure research and passage of the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Act?
Three months of feverish work resulted in a successful one-day rally. 150 people, who had met only via the internet, learned the power of unity and advocacy. That April day was a turning point for 3 members of the rally’s steering committee. After meeting face-to-face and sharing the energy of that first rally, they realized that their work had only begun. Later that spring the 3 women founded Unite 2 Fight Paralysis (U2FP), a 501©3 organization dedicated to the education, unification and empowerment of all survivors of paralysis.
Following the 2005 Rally, Unite 2 Fight Paralysis expanded its efforts and hosted a 3-day Working 2 Walk Symposium and Rally in 2006 and 2007. Leaders in the quest to find a cure for paralysis came from around the globe to participate. Working 2 Walk has now become an annual event that is eagerly anticipated by researchers and patient advocates alike.
Following Working 2 Walk 2006, U2FP launched Bridges 2 Hope, an online book of stories from the paralysis community. U2FP was recognized by Squidoo as “One of the 59 Smartest Orgs Online” for Bridges 2 Hope, a project that gives a face and voice to survivors of paralysis.
From its humble beginnings, Unite 2 Fight Paralysis has rapidly grown into a nationally recognized leader in the cure effort. The leadership team now includes volunteers from around the country. In the midst of growth, however, U2FP remains an all-volunteer, grassroots organization representing those who live with paralysis on a daily basis. Members are passionate and dedicated in their determination to see a cure, and believe the best way to achieve their dream is to present a united & consistent message to government, industry, science and the general public.
Unite 2 Fight Paralysis
5640 Alder Rd
Hood River OR 97031
888-202-1992
http://u2fp.org
unite@unite2fightparalysis.org
