United Spinal Association is committed to serving our nation’s veterans who use wheelchairs. Big changes are coming for our VetsFirst program! Watch this page and sign up below for our newsletter and updates.

About VetsFirst

VetsFirst is a program of United Spinal Association that assists veterans and their eligible family members in obtaining the benefits they are entitled to, deserve and need.
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Core Beliefs

Disabled veterans must have access to employment and educational opportunities; accessible housing; and transportation that allow them to live the lives they choose.
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Save Critical Spinal Cord Injury Research Program at Department of Defense

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) profoundly impact veterans and their families, with the VA serving as the largest care network for these complex conditions. The Spinal Cord Injury Research Program (SCIRP), established to address the high rates of SCI among returning warfighters, funds vital research into improved treatments and long-term care. However, Congress has eliminated the entire $40 million budget for SCIRP in fiscal year 2025, jeopardizing crucial advancements in SCI care, including tissue preservation, biomarker development, and rehabilitation strategies.

This funding cut threatens progress in improving the lives of over 300,000 individuals living with SCI, including many veterans. These funds support research aimed at maximizing function, managing chronic complications like pain and dysfunction, and addressing the psychosocial needs of patients and their families. Without SCIRP, critical research into new therapies and interventions will stall, hindering the development of better treatments and ultimately impacting the quality of life for those affected by SCI.

Take action now to restore these critical research and development investments guided by the vision to advance the treatment and management of SCI for military service members, veterans, their families, as well as all individuals living with SCI.

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Mental Health Resources for Veterans

VetsFirst, a program of United Spinal Association hosted a webinar to explore the various mental health resources available to veterans. If you’re facing challenges that affect your life, there is assistance available. You’re not alone. VA has a variety of mental health resources, information, treatment options, and more — all accessible to veterans, and those family members, caregivers, individuals, and/or organizations who support and advocate for them.