¦ July 26, 2010
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
20 Year Anniversary Salute

It’s been 20 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) became the law of our land. Before then, individual states mandated rules such as cut curbs, building access and transportation, which resulted in wide variations. You never knew what to expect.

Effective accessibility laws have enabled people in wheelchairs to become a part of our society. Prior to ADA, sidewalks were a barrier for people in wheelchairs; restaurants, movie theaters, symphony halls, sports venues were all places people simply could not go and, if they tried, now on earth would they use a restroom?
 
ADA made it possible for the best and brightest of our citizens who happen to be in wheelchairs to reach their full potential as leaders in business, politics, sports and entertainment. And ADA made it possible for the rest of us to enjoy life with special friends, family and co-workers. The Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation funds accessible playgrounds so children, parents and grandparents can all simply enjoy afternoon of fun together.

In the last 20 years, the Internet has made it possible for people to network on the subject of spinal cord injury, share ideas, plans and goals. In the last 10 years, the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation has become a leader in the charge to cure paralysis.   

“All of us at the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation believe there is a cure for paralysis and are working diligently toward that future. Your donations, prayers and good wishes will help us achieve our goal. Together we can get it done!”, commented Ida Cahill, president/CEO of the Foundation.

Now, there’s no stopping those of us who believe that a cure for spinal cord injury within our lifetime is not a dream but a certainty. The Americans with Disabilities Act not only opened the door, but ensured that it was wide enough for a wheelchair. We salute the people who made those first victories happen and vow to continue their work for as long as it takes.