Spinal Cord Injury awareness picture. Shows green ribbon stating September is spinal cord injury awareness month.

This year, we are focusing on spinal cord injury as a result of violence. According to the South Carolina Spinal Cord Injury Surveillance and Registry System, about 7% of spinal cord injuries in our state occur as a result of acts of violence. This means physical violence is the third most common cause of Spinal Cord injury in the state and nationally.

Each week in September, you will hear from one person who sustained a spinal cord injury as a result of violence. You will learn how spinal cord injury has impacted them, and how they have grown since their injury. We hope you’ll be as inspired by their resilience as we have been.

Spotlights:

Week 1 - Ashley Williams

Photo showing green background and spinal image. States From tragedy to triumph, interview with spinal cord survivor.

Ashley sustained a spinal cord injury when she was shot by her boyfriend. Her spinal cord injury changed her outlook on life and has shaped the person she is now. After spinal cord injury, she began to set goals for herself, and reaching those goals one at a time has helped Ashley realize her injury does not limit her potential. Please read the attached article and watch her video interview at the link below to learn more about Ashley’s journey.

Watch the video interview: https://youtu.be/Rm6N2wpKLc8?si=RnU-BRpcEUliinZE

Read the article: Ashley Williams PDF

Week 2 - Wendell Manigault Jr.

Image with green background and spinal cord image. Text stating From streets to strength. Interview with a spinal cord injury survivor.

Wendell sustained a spinal cord injury when he was shot by a friend. His spinal cord injury influenced his decision to encourage others to become the best versions of themselves. He is now a motivational speaker and author who inspires others to stay on track.

Watch the video interview: https://youtu.be/LMUAwfIZFlo?si=uqatgWC5WwYIg3sb

Read the article: Wendell Manigault PDF

Week 3 - Janice Harris

Janice Harris's life changed forever just before her 21st birthday when a tragic hostage situation left her paralyzed from the neck down. After surviving the ordeal and waking up in the ICU, Janice faced overwhelming challenges, struggling to adjust to life in a wheelchair. Despite dark times, she found hope through her faith, family, and friends. Now pursuing a master’s degree in psychology, Janice aims to help at-risk teens, using her story of resilience to inspire others. "Life is not over. We can do all things," she says.

Watch the video interview: https://youtu.be/78sYeeZ73UU

Read the article: Janice Harris PDF