BOCCIA NATIONALSVETERAN TREATMENTINSIDE THIS EDITION

2017 Paralyzed Veterans of America Boccia Nationals - St. Louis, MO August 18-19, 2017

Competition in this year’s first PVA Boccia Nationals is open to Veterans having spinal cord injuries, amputations, poly-trauma, multiple sclerosis, or other neurological conditions. Veterans must also be eligible to receive care as a VA medical facility. No previous victories or tournament championships are required in this year’s PVA Boccia Nationals. Play is required in a wheelchair. ...continued on page 9.

Why Veteran Treatment Matters.

“The willingness with which our young people

are likely to serve in any war, no matter how

justified, shall be directly proportional to how

they perceive veterans of earlier wars were

treated and appreciated by our nation.” —

George Washington

President George Washington’s proclamation that a nation will be judged by how it treatsits

defenders ....continued on pg 2.

CORDWORDThe Monthly Newsletter of the New England Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America

JULY 2017

COPYRIGHT © 2017. NEW ENGLAND PVA. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

ADVANCED PROSTHESIS 4

VA ACCOUNTABILITY ACT 4

SUMMER IS HERE 5

2017 BOCCIA NATIONALS 9

VA SCI RESEARCH PROGRAMS 13

CLASSIFIEDS 15

Sherman Gillums, Jr. PVA Executive Director

www.newenglandpva.org2

The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by our nation. — George Washington

President George Washington’s proclamation that a nation will be judged by how it treats its defenders—meaning its veterans – seems not only prescient but apropos in our current day and age. The judges who matter most are the young people who will be tomorrow’s defenders, and their judgment will inform their decisions to raise their right hands, take the oath and fight for their country. Or choose not to serve.

Nine percent of the American population made the decision to fight for their country after Pearl Harbor, the first historic attack on the homeland in modern history that pulled the U.S. into World War II. Compare that to less than one percent of the population that served after the second historic attack on the homeland on September 11, 2001. The gulf between then and now, regarding the collective willingness to serve, begs a few questions: Have we simply become a less patriotic nation? Or are we just more cynical, given how military service is depicted and perhaps devalued today?

Some reports suggest that along with a cook, mail carrier, corrections officer, and taxi driver, any enlisted military occupation is considered among the worst jobs in America. The speculated reasons are stress, work environment, emotional factors, income level, and career prospects. Assuming this is true—or even just perceived to be true by young people—it’s no wonder the allure of military service has diminished. The numbers tell the story as evidenced by the ninety-nine percent of America who didn’t serve after 9/11 and ninety-three percent of which have never served in the military in any era. The fact is, most U.S. citizens

have decided not to serve in uniform.

And, why should they? They are inundated with perpetual bad news about life in and after the military. Veteran suicide, veteran unemployment, veteran homelessness, delayed access to VA healthcare, delayed receipt of VA benefits, military sexual trauma, scandal in the military, the long-term effects of Agent Orange, burn pits, Anthrax vaccinations, Camp Lejeune water contamination and rampant post-traumatic stress are among the persistent headline-grabbing issues. All this has made it hard to see an upside to joining the military for the kid who was born on or soon after September 11, 2001, and will be old enough to join the military next year.Here’s what that young person will likely not know, however. While our government faces many problems in how it administers benefits and healthcare to veterans, many veterans, because of their military service, enjoy financial security, have good educations, possess strong work ethics, and receive excellent healthcare. Veterans are also generally well-regarded by their local communities and receive many city and county benefits, such as property tax exemptions, college tuition assistance and even dedicated parking spaces in some areas for Purple Heart recipients. V

eterans also regularly benefit from random acts of kindness by strangers in the form of upgrades to first class on flights, anonymously paid dinner tabs, and a simple “thank you for your service” by citizens who don’t care what you look like, what your politics are or the number of military decorations you’ve earned. All that matters is their service.

Veteran status is one of the few stations in American society where race, religion, and gender are eclipsed by merit and character of service. Most importantly, to become a veteran, one must pass tests of will, character, selflessness, and dedication unlike any other occupation, and is rewarded with a lifelong badge of honor that is coveted by many, yet earned by few. It is the one place in society where the term “hero” is least likely to be an exaggerated characterization, whether one served as a cook or a general in harm’s way.

For the record, I don’t believe we are a less patriotic society. Nor are we smarter simply because fewer Americans choose to avoid the perceived pitfalls of military service. Americans are content to love our troops because most citizens don’t have to bethose troops. That’s fine, I suppose, as long as we are willing to reward those who choose to run toward the sound of danger—repeatedly, in many cases—so others never have to. It is that reward, in the form of benefits, good quality of life, social standing and respect that will ensure future generations of Americans will value military service enough to endure its rigors.

To that end, America must build on that value with each new generation by treating veterans well. It’s not just the right thing to do; it is the best recruitment strategy for the future of our nation’s military.

Previously published by LibertyNation.com on 5/12/17

Why Veteran Treatment Matters

CORDWORD 3

As we celebrate America’s birthday and 241 years of independence, let us reflect upon what bonds all Americans together - regardless of political party, race, color, religion, man or woman. What bonds us together is the singular belief in the equality of Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. It is in this undeniable belief that we served our great nation with professionalism and pride.

While many of us take this time to gather together to remember friends, give thanks, and enjoy time with family, let us not forget the countless service men and women deployed throughout the world continuing the mission of protecting our freedom and liberties.

When I think about our Nation’s resolve and the sacrifices so many have made in its name and cause, I believe President Kennedy said it best in his inaugural speech - “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty.”

As always, we’re continually looking for member contributions to the CordWord. It can be of any subject, whether a written article or photo display that you feel might be of interest to other members.

If you’d like to submit something for the CordWord, please email it to media@newenglandpva.org. You can also send any feedback or suggestions to the same address.

As always, I welcome any thoughts, feedback or suggestions you may have for the CordWord.

I wish you all a Happy and Safe 4th of July!

CordWord Editor

From the Editor’s Desk

NEW ENGLAND PVA OFFICERS

President Wayne Ross Vice President Mike Guilbault Secretary Peter Moore Treasurer Charles Schena National Director Neal Williams ADA Coordinator Neal Williams

EXECUTIVE BOARD

John Brako Walter Farrington Michael Moran Michael Negrete Mark Sanders Jim Wallack

STAFF Debra Freed Executive Director Jerry Cole Admin/Bookkeeper

New England PVA Chapter1208 VFW Parkway, Suite 301West Roxbury, MA 02132T (617) 942-8678 or 1-(800) 660-1181F (857) 203-9685

CHAPTER ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM DIRECTORS PVA NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICES

Michael G. Negrete Board of Directors Media and Communications Director

USMC and USCG Veteran Cold War and Persian Gulf Veteran

www.newenglandpva.orginfo@newenglandpva.orgOffice Hours: Mon-Fri, 9:00am-4:30pm

PROGRAM DIRECTORS

Bass Trail Liaison Jim Wallack Community Outreach Mike Guilbault Development Director Wayne Ross Media & Communications Michael Negrete Membership Officer Mike Guilbault MS Liaison John Brako NEPVA Peer Mentor Rep. Mike Guilbault Scholarship Chairman Wayne Ross Sports Director Mike Guilbault Assistant Sports Director Michael Moran Volunteer Coordinator Debra Freed Women Veterans’ Liaison Debra Freed

Boston VA Regional Office J.F.K. Federal Bldg. - Room - 1575 C Boston, MA 02203 T (617) 303-1395 or 1-800-795-3607 F (617) 303-1396 Joseph E. Badzmierowski Director of Field Services

West Roxbury VAMC 1400 VFW Parkway, Room AG 60 West Roxbury, MA 02132 T (857) 203-6091 Heather Cherniack Eastern Region Director

Togus, VARO, 1 VA Center Bldg. 248, Room 112 Augusta , ME 04330 T (207) 621-7394 or 866-795-1911 F(207) 621-4829 Scott Eggleston, National Service Officer Serving Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont

www.newenglandpva.org4

NEW YORK —Today, Secretary of Veterans Affairs David J. Shulkin, M.D. unveiled the world’s most advanced commercial prosthetic — the Life Under Kinetic Evolution (LUKE) arm — during a visit to the VA New York Harbor Health Care System’s Manhattan campus.

The event also included a demonstration of the technology by the first Veteran amputees to receive the device.

A collaboration between VA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and industry, the LUKE Arm is the product of nearly eight years of testing and research, and holds the potential to significantly benefit Veterans and others with upper-extremity amputations. Unlike less-advanced prosthetics, the entire LUKE arm can move as one unit, reducing the labor-intensive process of controlling one joint at a time. The LUKE arm also features the first commercially available powered shoulder, with up to 10 powered degrees of freedom.

Simply stated, the LUKE arm will help restore Veterans’ ability to perform a variety of one and two-handed activities. With accompanying

rehabilitation, recipients can use the LUKE arm to perform tasks, such as drinking from a glass, picking up small pieces of food to eat, cooking or gift-wrapping presents.

“The LUKE arm is a shining example of why VA exists,” Secretary Shulkin said. “There is no commercial market for this type of technology. The patient population is simply too small to motivate private companies to pursue these types of advancements on their own. This is why VA and its research efforts – efforts that could not be replicated in the private sector – are so important.”

Fred Downs and Artie McAuley are the first Veterans to receive the LUKE arm.

“The LUKE arm is a great tool, especially for high-level amputees like me,” McAuley said. “I’m amazed by the technology, and the level of flexibility and full range of motion, which allows me to do much more independently.”

Fred Downs added, “The technology has definitely been an improvement in my ability to perform day to day activities, most notably in grasping. It’s useful when an opposing hand is needed, in the workshop or while cooking.”

In fiscal year 2016, VA provided care for nearly 90,000 Veterans with amputations, more than 20,000 of whom had upper-limb involvement.

VA Secretary Shulkin Unveils World’s Most Advanced Commercial ProsthesisNew Release first appreared on www.va.gov June 30, 2017

Article first appreared on VAntage Point June, 23, 2017

With the stroke of a pen, President Trump made what he called one of “the largest reforms to the VA in its history” today with the signing of the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017.

“Today we are taking a very historic action,” the president said. “This law will finally give the VA secretary the authority to remove federal employees who fail and endanger our Veterans — and to do so quickly and effectively.”

“In just a short time we’ve already achieved transformative change at the VA and, we’re just getting started,” Trump added.

VA Secretary Dr. David Shulkin also spoke at the event, and introduced Army Veteran Michael Verardo and his wife Sarah. A sergeant with the 82nd Airborne, Verardo was injured by an IED explosion in Afghanistan in 2010 and has had more than 100 surgeries and countless hours of therapy. After experiencing issues with timely appointments at VA, Verardo met with Shulkin earlier this year and urged reform.

“Today is a new day and this administration has fulfilled its promise to put a Veteran in charge of his own care,” Verardo told those gathered for the bill signing. “Thank you for ensuring that we are not forgotten and that we will receive the care that we deserve.”

“The President and I are committed to fixing the VA,” Secretary Shulkin explained. “Veterans deserve an organization they can trust.”

Earlier Friday, Shulkin spoke at an event hosted by the Bush Institute and explained what the new law enables VA to do.

“I’m grateful to Congress and the president for moving forward with this,” Shulkin told the morning audience. “There is bipartisan support to help us fix issues that have been broken for a long time.”

“I believe that to be able to move people out who have lost their way is part of the solution to be able to fix VA. It’s good news for Veterans, their families. It’s good news for our employees,” Shulkin said.

“Keeping Our Promises”- President Trump Signs VA Accountability Act

CORDWORD 5

Wow, July already. By the time you read this some of us would have gone

to the 37th National Veterans Wheelchair Games in Cincinnati, OH while

others attended the New England Summer Sports Clinic in Providence,

Rhode Island. Unfortunately, they fell on the same week this year.

According to my information, that will not happen next year. Highlights of

both will be in the August issue.

Please remember that the Chapter must remain apolitical. We do our

best to be as informative of the issues concerning military veterans and

their families as possible. Here are a few things we are currently following:

Many folks may think that now Summer is here legislators can take a long

time off. Not so. They work during the Summer just like many of us do.

That being said, many of your federal Senators and Representatives have

hosted or will be hosting Town Halls, either live, virtual, or just by phone.

We do our best to get the information out as quickly as possible leaving

the rest up to you. Yes, YOU! Sitting around and complaining about how

things are being done is wasteful and does nothing to get things changed.

I do try to keep track of various bills at the state level and federal level.

PVA is a great source for issues at the federal level. I am proud of our New

England Legislators both at the state and federal levels. Many of them

have staunchly protected and defended military veteran programs. And

hopefully, many are aware of some positive action at the federal level as

well.

I have been tracking three bills at the federal level: HR 1472, HR 2904, one

better known as “Obamacare.” HR 1472 was introduced by Congressman

Jim Langevin of Rhode Island’s 2nd Congressional district. He truly knows

first hand about requiring caregivers. For those who are not familiar

with his story, Mr. Langevin was injured at the age of 16 while a police

cadet. Mr. Langevin (Jim) as he prefers became an instant quadriplegic

from an errant bullet by a police officer who was showing the weapon

to other cadets. I do not know the full history but I do know that Jim

Langevin could have lived most of his life on the settlement he reached

with the city and state. He has chosen to devote his time and energy to

his constituents in his home state, throughout New England, and the

country.

Mr. Langevin requires caregiving services 24/7. Even though he was never

a military veteran, he knows first hand how difficult it is to get caregiving

services even from immediate family. HR 1472 is to expand eligibility

to the family caregiver program beyond those who were injured prior

to 9.11.2001. There are many, many veterans who require caregiving

services prior to 9/11. So, if you have a chance to participate in any type

of Town Hall given by Congressman Langevin, please do. He cannot do

this alone, the Chapter cannot do this alone. We need to make our voices

heard.

Another bill HR2904 and its Senate counterpart S1366 that I am watching

- Restore Honor to Service Members Act. This bill would would require

the Secretary of Defense to review the discharge characterization of

former members of the Armed Forces who were discharged by reason of

their sexual orientation of the member, and for other purposes.

Because there are so many bills pertaining to the issue of what has been

dubbed “Obamacare” here is the third bill I/We are tracking: the original

title of which is: Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The current

administration wants to rescind the Act and come up with its own

version. Right now, the House came up with its own version and now the

Senate which should have voted by the 4th of July holiday is wrangling

with its version. Why is this important to you? For those veterans who are

non-service connected, it is VERY IMPORTANT especially if you are on or

use some form of Medicaid services to cover what the VA cannot because

you are non-service connected. Again, your Chapter Board members and

the staff are a very small group. However, with over 875 members New

England wide, we can make some real noise. Don’t sit back and believe

that others are going to do the work for you. There will be plenty of town

halls, whether in person or virtual or over the phone.

On a lighter note. Sigmund Hough, PhD, Psychology SCI on A2- West

Roxbury had asked for the Chapter’s assistance concerning something

for children to do while visiting family on A2 at the West Roxbury VA. So, a

corner of the A2 SCI Day room is now a dedicated area for children to hang

out while visiting family. We thank Dr. Hough and all of A2 for their time

and consideration in setting up this area.

DEBRA FREED - Executive Director, New England PVA

Working Through The Summer

www.newenglandpva.org6

Skin Protection

Ultraviolet Radiation

Protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun is very important during the spring and summer months. During the warmer months, the Earth is tilted in a way that allows more of the sun’s Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays to make it the surface. More UVB rays means hotter temperatures and an increased risk to skin. The sun’s Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays reach the Earth’s surface year round.

Harmful Effects

Ultraviolet A and B radiation from the sun can cause or contribute to a number of harmful effects to your skin including painful sunburn, cancer and aging. For those with fair skin, lupus, or those who take medications such as antibiotics or antihistamines, the risks are greater.

Protection

To protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun, consider wearing protective clothing such as hats, long sleeves, pants, or even sun-safe clothing, which is designed to provide even more protection. Also, consider sunblock for UVA radiation or sunscreen for UVB radiation. To ensure maximum protection, choose a product that will protect against both UVA and UVB.

Hearing Protection

Noisy Activities

Warmer months mean more opportunities to engage in activities that could result in noise-induced hearing loss. These activities include boating, motorcycling, sporting events, music concerts, or even mowing the lawn.

Harmful Effects

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) sets safe noise levels at 85 dB. Noise levels higher than this can result in Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) or tinnitus. Those with NIHL have difficulty understanding other people when they talk, especially on the phone or in a noisy room. Tinnitus is a constant ringing, buzzing or roaring sound in one or both ears. The bad news is NIHL and tinnitus can be permanent, but the good news is they are preventable.

• Typical Lawn Mower – 85 to 90 dB, hearing damage occurs in 8 hours at this level

• Speedboat – can exceed 90 dB

• Motorcycle – can exceed 95 dB

• Sporting Event – as much as 115 dB, hearing damage can occur in 15 minutes

As a rule of thumb, if you have to shout to be heard by the person standing next to you or notice your ears are ringing after exposure, your environment is too loud.

Protection

Hearing protection is useful when you cannot or choose not to avoid noise exposure. The two most popular forms of hearing protection are earplugs and earmuffs. Earplugs are inserted into the ear canal and earmuffs cover the ears. You can use one or both to protect your hearing. Both forms of protection work by decreasing the volume, or dB, of the noise reaching the sensitive structures in your inner ear.

About the author: Matthew E. Freeman is part of the Health Promotion Disease Prevention Committee at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, Mo.

Article first appreared on VAntage Point June, 13, 2017

Summer is Here: Protect Your Skin and Your Hearing

CORDWORD 7

Connect With What Matters

Being there makes a di� erenceRecently the Ride-Away team joined forces with MobilityWorks so that we could provide our veterans with the largest selection of mobility solutions that best � t their physical capabilities and lifestyle. Veterans have unique needs so we treat each of them as individuals. First of all, we listen. Then, we work together � nd the best solution. Collectively, Ride-Away and MobilityWorks will continue to build on our mission to help veterans connect with who and what matters most.

MobilityWorks has more than 50 locations across the country with the largest selection of accessible vehicles and adaptive solutions:

• Minivans, full-size vans and trucks

• The latest in adaptive technology

• Complete maintenance and service

• Rental vans — veterans receive a 10% discount

MobilityWorks is committed to serving you. Contact us today so we can evaluate your needs and � nd a solution that best � ts your lifestyle.

Trucks

SUVs

Lifts and stowage products Electronic control systems

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USA’s largest accessible van dealer!

Gray 32 Lewiston Road, Unit 2BGray, ME 04039207-747-2064

Essex Junction5C David DriveEssex Junction, VT 05452802-222-0265

Londonderry54 Wentworth AvenueLondonderry, NH 03053603-210-4610

North Attleboro57 George Leven DriveNorth Attleboro MA 02760508-859-0940

Norwood333 Boston Providence TurnpikeNorwood, MA 02062 781-222-3622

East Hartford104 Pitkin StreeetEast Hartford, CT 06108860-215-4100

www.newenglandpva.org8

CORDWORD 9

2017PVABocciaNationalsAugust18-19,2017

Eligibility:

Competitioninthisyear’sfirstPVABocciaNationalsisopentoVeteranshavingspinalcordinjuries,amputations,poly-trauma,multiplesclerosis,orotherneurologicalconditions.

VeteransmustalsobeeligibletoreceivecareasaVAmedicalfacility.Nopreviousvictoriesortournamentchampionshipsarerequiredinthisyear’sPVABocciaNationals.Playisrequiredin

awheelchair.

RegistrationFilingDeadlineisJuly28,2017

Allathletesmustregisterbysubmittingtheenclosedregistrationform,postmarkedonorbeforeJuly25,2017.Allforms,includingacopyofaVAIDcardmustbecompletedand

submittedtoGatewayPVAChapter.

Mailcompletedpacketsandregistrationfee–PacketmustincludetheRegistrationFormandParticipationWaiver

GatewayPVAChapter

Attn:ChrisBlanchardExecutiveDirector1311LindberghPlazaCenter

St.Louis,MO63132

Registrationislimitedto50athletes.Completedregistrationformsareacceptedintheordertheyarereceived.

RegistrationFeeis$50.00perplayer.Paymentwillbeacceptedbypersonalcheck,cashier’scheckormoneyordermadepayabletoGPVA.RegistrationfeecoversallplayersfortheAwardsBanquet-DinneronSaturday19,2017&Lunchesforbothdaysofcompetition

PlayFormatincludesawardsfor1stthru3rdplaceinthefollowingcategorieswith

individualplayonlyfortheseclassesPara/Open,Quadriplegic,Ramp

CaregiversParticipantsneedingacaregivermustarrangethatsupportontheirown.MedicalStaffis

notavailabletoprovideattendantsupport.

2017 PVA BOCCIA NATIONALS

Download Application and Complete Details at www.newenglandpva.org

www.newenglandpva.org10

MobilityAdaptive

Equipment

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We work with the VA for you. New van upgrades every 2 years saving

you $25,000 on average and sometimes very little out of pocket.

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*Please call for details and qualifi cations

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If you can’t come to uswe’ll come to you

LIFETIMEWARRANTY(Call or visit us for

more information)

CORDWORD 11

Community Boating is offering 2 sessions:

Sunday July 2nd: 10:00 – 3:00 Registration closes by Friday, June 30th

Saturday August 12th: 10:00 – 3:00 Registration closes Wednesday, August 9th

**Transportation is not provided**

https://www.community-boating.org/ 21 David G Mugar Way, Boston, MA 02114 (617) 523-1038

www.newenglandpva.org12

Be ready for this year’s Olympics…

Come join us to watch

at the Cape Cod Curling Club37 Highfield Drive, Falmouth, MA • 508-540-2414 • www.capecodcurling.org

A stone’s throw from area beaches, ferries,dining, and shopping. Stop by and discovera sport that is fun, friendly, and steeped instrategy and tradition.

Our annual SummerSpiel attracts curlersfrom throughout the US, Canada, Europe,and Asia, making it the largest off-seasoncurling tournament in the world!

Play begins at 9:00 each morning and contin-ues until 10:00 each night, with men, women,juniors, and wheelchair curlers competing.

Call 508-540-2414 for a more detailed sched-ule, or stop by when convenient and enjoy theaction and camaraderie. There is no charge.

HighfieldTheatre

Sports Center

Cape Cod Curling Club

Falmouth AcademyRailroad Tracksand Bike Path De

pot A

venu

e

Quee

ns B

uyw

ay

Downtown Falmouth

Route 28

International Curling(except July 12th)

July 6-23,2017

CORDWORD 13

MAKE A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION TODAY!

Mail your check of any amount to:

Paralyzed Veterans of America New England Chapter 1208 VFW Parkway, Suite 301 West Roxbury, MA 02132

Please write “CordWord” in the memo section of your check.

The Veterans Administration is heavily involved in Spinal Cord Injury and

neural research in multiple areas including technological advancements

and biological advancements to improve mobility and to restore motor

and sensory function to Veterans with SCI and those whose nerves have

been damaged by other conditions such as ALS, multiple scleroses and

diabetes.

The VA is currently in the second year of a clinical trial of the ReWalk

exoskeleton system that uses powered leg attachments to enable

paraplegics to stand upright, walk and turn. Powered exoskeletons are

a new and emerging technology that require extensive clinical training

and expertise. To ensure that Veterans with SCI meet clinical criteria to

safely and effectively use the ReWalk, Veterans with SCI interested in

being evaluated for use of the device should be referred to one of the 24

Veterans Health Administration SCI Centers. A veteran can be referred by

his/her VA provider or can self-refer to a SCI clinic. There are parameters

that must be met for successful application of the ReWalk. The use of the

ReWalk is not appropriate for all SCI veterans.

The VA has been involved with the development of BrainGate. This is a

study involving the implantation of sensors in the brain that monitors

brain activity in the patient. The information the sensors gather is sent

to a device that is programmed to interpret and convert the data to

control an external device such as a computer or a robotic arm or other

robotic device by thought alone. There have been clinical trials where

a computer curser was successfully controlled by this method allowing

the patient to open email and to control a television. Other clinical trials

showed patients were able to control robotic arms for reaching and

grasping. The research continues with BrainGate2. This phase utilizes

the same type brain-computer interface combined with small electrical

pulses to paralyzed muscles to restore or improve their function by

bypassing nerve damage. There are currently 10 people with paralysis

across the country assessing the safety and feasibility of this technology.

BrainGate is a pure research study and is not available for treatment at

this time. The SCI clinics cannot provide access to this technology.

The Veterans Administration is also pursuing research to develop a stem

cell-based therapy to repair the chronically injured spinal cord and to

maximize functional recovery. Research will focus on the promising

biology of stem cells to replace lost or damaged cells and form new

neural circuits in combination with rehabilitation strategies to train the

spinal cord to use the new circuits.

These are some of the research areas the Veterans Administration is in

the forefront to improve the quality of life for SCI veterans and potentially

one day reverse the SCI.

For further information see VA memo dated Dec 10, 2015 “Clinical

Protocol for Veteran Use of the Re Walk Powered Exoskeleton”, ReWalk

Press Release dated April 6, 2017 and visit www.research.va.gov/topics.

Update on VA SCI Research ProgramsBRUCE WESTON - National Service Office, New York, NY

www.newenglandpva.org14

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Service Members’ Perspectives on Treatment: Exploring trust and the military-civilian divide.Kevin O’Leary, Psy D student at Antioch University New England in Keene NH is looking for veterans and service members for a study titled “Service Members’ Perspectives on Treatment: Exploring trust and the military-civilian divide.” The purpose of this study is to learn from veterans and service members on what therapists need to know and how to do better when working with military populations, and on service members’ experiences with civilians.

The only requirement to participate is to currently serve or to have served in the US military and have an opinion on therapy.

Participation involves a 10-20 minute online survey involving demographics, write-in questions, and multiple choice questions. For each competed survey $2 will be donated to The Massachusetts Military Heroes Fund. MMHF is a non-profit charity providing financial, social, and advocacy support for post-9/11 Gold Star families.

No identifying information, specifics about therapy or traumatic events will be gathered in this study and all data will be kept on a secure drive. Little to no risk is expected in completing the survey, however information on getting immediate help or connecting with mental health treatment will be available throughout.

If you would like to know more about the survey, or have questions please contact Kevin O’Leary at koleary@antioch.edu or Roger Peterson PhD at rpeterson@antioch.edu. This study is conducted under the direction of Roger Peterson PhD and approved by the Antioch University New England Institutional Review Board on October 25th 2016.

If you wish to participate, please follow this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SK6VNF8

2008 Ford E-350 with dual post liftHigh mileage 2008 Ford E-350 with dual post lift and many extras. $5,000 or best offer non-members or $4,000 or best offer life members of PVA with particular preference given to NEPVA members. Must pick up in Maine!

Call the NEPVA office at 800-660-1181.

CLASSIFIEDSClassifieds are printed at the Editor’s discretion. New England PVA neither endorses nor guarantees any of the products or services advertised.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE VEHICLES FOR SALE

Your Ad Could Be Here:

Classified ads must be prepaid and not commissionable. $1/word - personal, $1.50/word - business. Bold headers, no extra charge. Email inquiries to media@newenglandpva.org.

STUDY OPPORTUNITIES

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Paralyzed Veterans of AmericaNew England Chapter1208 VFW Parkway, Suite 301West Roxbury, MA 02132

T 800 660-1181F 857 203-9685

info@newenglandpva.orgwww.newenglandpva.org

Office Hours Mon-Fri, 9:00am-4:30pm

Serving Paralyzed Veterans and the Disabled Community Since 1947.

COMING EVENTS AND IMPORTANT DATESJuly: NO Chapter Board of Directors’ Meeting

July 16 through 23rd: NVWGames, Cincinnati, OH

July 17 through July 21: New England Summer Sports Clinic: Providence, RI

July 26th: Brockton Community Meeting & Pizza Party

July 28th: Worcester Bravehearts Baseball Military Appreciation Night, Worcester, MA

August 2nd: Chapter Board of Directors Meeting, Chapter Office

August 4 & 5th: Krazy Days of Summer, Middleborough’s Annual Street Fair

August 12: Intro to Sailing by Community Boating in Boston

August 16: Ice Cream Social: West Roxbury VA A-2.

Aug 18: Monument Beach Shoot Bourne, MA

Aug 26: Cookout at Lake Hiawather Bellingham, MA

August 23rd: Community Meeting @ Brockton LTV Bldg. 8

Sep 2: Shooting with Bellingham PD in Bellingham, MA

Sept. 8-10: NEPVA Bass Trail: Lake Winnepesaukee, Camp Robindel, Moultonborough, NH

Sep 15: Shooting at Shawmee Gun Club Sandwich, MA

Oct 5: Bass River Rod and Gun Club Shoot Yarmouth, MA

Sept. 22nd: PVA New England Chapter’s 70th Annual Banquet at Moseley’s On The Charles