Paralyzed Veterans of America issued the following:
WASHINGTON, April 17, 2020 -- Paralyzed Veterans of America is launching Stories from the Inside,
a national awareness and support campaign, featuring long-time
supporter Ben Affleck and paralyzed veterans sharing their fears and
struggles from the confinement of their homes due to COVID-19.
PVA is taking action during the crisis to ensure the nation's most
catastrophically injured veterans have access to resources they need to
survive.
With underlying health issues, paralyzed veterans, and all people
with serious disabilities, are at the greatest risk for deadly
repercussions should they contract COVID-19. Many in this vulnerable
population use wheelchairs and rely on others for daily care and vital
supplies. They remain trapped in their homes with growing concerns about
exposure, limited supplies, increased anxiety, or depression. A trend
that will continue for their foreseeable futures.
Stories from the Inside includes
a plea from Affleck to viewers to join him in supporting Paralyzed
Veterans of America. From financial assistance to purchase supplies and
food, to urging lawmakers to prioritize veteran health care, benefits,
and civil rights, PVA represents those who cannot advocate for
themselves during this crisis.
"The specialized care required for someone with a spinal cord injury
or disease is not always available in typical health facilities. It is
crucial that we make sure the needs of paralyzed veterans, and all
people with disabilities, are not forgotten during this pandemic,"
said David Zurfluh, national president of Paralyzed Veterans of America.
"Through the generosity of donors, we can remain the front-line
warriors for paralyzed veterans. Tasks that used to be a challenge, like
going to the grocery store, are now practically impossible. They are
going to need us for months ahead."
PVA national service officers work from within Department of Veterans
Affairs Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder centers and they continue to
work on the front line, ensuring these veterans are getting the care
they need, processing benefits claims and advocating on behalf of
paralyzed veterans and their caregivers.
PVA chapters across the country have enacted emergency relief
programs and wellness efforts. "In this time of crisis, not all help is
medically related," said Zurfluh. "Sometimes just having someone to ask,
'How are you?' can make the difference between feeling alone and afraid
to knowing you're supported. I make calls every day and tell every
member I speak to, 'You are not forgotten. We're here and we care about
you.'"
To support the life-saving efforts of PVA during this crisis, or if you are a paralyzed veteran in need of assistance, visit HelpPVA.org for more information.
