It’s hard to overstate the daily challenges faced by people living with spinal cord injuries (SCI). From the physical and mental health toll to the barriers in accessing adequate care, life with SCI can feel like a constant uphill battle. However, for the first time in years, I’m genuinely optimistic about what the future holds…. thanks to work being done by Vancouver’s Praxis Spinal Cord Institute. In their own words, “Praxis is a Canadian-based not-for-profit that leads global collaboration in spinal cord injury research, innovation and care. We accelerate the translation of discoveries and best practices into improved treatments for people with SCI.
Don’t be fooled Praxis isn’t just another research organization. It’s a hub for innovation, collaboration, and real-world impact. Unlike many focused on SCI, Praxis doesn’t stop at conducting research—they’re focused on translating discoveries into tangible solutions that improve lives. As someone who lives with SCI, I know how critical it is to have organizations that not only understand the complexities of these injuries but are also committed to tackling them. Full disclosure: I’m a board member at Praxis. But my belief in their work goes beyond my affiliation with them. Their mission isn’t just aspirational, they’re filling the gaps where innovation has often stalled. Nowhere is this more evident than in their SCI Accelerate program, a 12-week accelerator designed to fast-track the commercialization of potentially transformational technologies.
Accelerate is not just about funding or mentorship—it’s about identifying real-world problems and delivering practical, life-changing solutions. A few examples: For anyone with SCI, bladder and bowel care isn’t just a medical issue; it’s a quality-of-life issue. Planning your day around bathroom breaks can feel deeply limiting. Dignify Therapeutics is working on pharmaceutical solutions to restore control and dignity …a stark reminder that impactful innovators go after problems many would rather ignore. On the communication front …typing, texting, or navigating tech can be challenging. Reachable Technologies is creating tools for people with SCI to stay connected. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about not excluding anyone from the conversations and opportunities! And, mobility is another cornerstone of independence where India’s NeoMotion is rethinking wheelchairs and mobility aids, creating functional, user centric, affordable products especially in underserved regions. And, North American founded Bowhead’s adaptive bikes allow people to explore off-road trails and reconnect with nature. It’s not just about the thrill of the ride; it’s about reclaiming joy and freedom in a way that’s often overlooked in conversations about accessibility. After watching YouTube videos of the Bowhead in action, I hope to get my own bike soon!
Innovation doesn’t happen in a vacuum or by accident. By collaboratively involving consumers, researchers, and industry leaders, Praxis unwavering addresses real, unmet needs—a blueprint for how other organizations could approach disability innovation—not as a side project but as a central mission.
As I look ahead, I’m optimistic that we can make life better for those who need it most. After all, dignity, independence, and joy aren’t luxuries—they’re human rights. Let’s keep pushing to make them a reality for everyone.
Joel Dembe is a Paralympian, public speaker and is now a senior communications manager at RBC. He’s also Co-Chair of RBC REACH, Royal Bank of Canada’s advisory group for clients and employees living with disabilities.
He serves as a Chair of the Patron’s Council for the Canadian Abilities Foundation.
Photo: praxisinstitute.org
