Paralyzed Veterans of America Launches New Yes, You Can! Guide--the Go-To Resource for People Newly Impacted by Spinal Cord-Related Injuries or Diagnoses
Newest edition expands guidance for women, addresses emerging health and wellness needs,
and reflects the latest advances in paralysis care
WASHINGTON, Sept. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition of Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month, Paralyzed Veterans of America today rolled out its newly updated edition of Yes, You Can! The comprehensive go-to resource has been updated with current research, emerging approaches to care, and new information addressing the physical, emotional, and practical realities of life after injury. For decades, PVA's Yes, You Can! has helped scores of people living with spinal cord injuries (SCI) understand what to expect and how to navigate the countless decisions that follow, from managing secondary health conditions and rehabilitation to relationships, employment, and life in the community.
"Spinal cord injury changes a person's life, but it does not define it or change who that person is," said Robert Thomas, U.S. Army veteran and national president of Paralyzed Veterans of America. "For 80 years, PVA has fought to ensure veterans with spinal cord injuries (like myself and its members) have access to the specialized care, VA benefits, opportunities, and resources they need to live on their own terms. PVA's Yes, You Can! extends that commitment by putting trusted guidance directly into their hands and helping them navigate what comes next."
Among the most significant changes to its latest edition is the expanded content addressing the unique experiences and health needs of women with SCI, including women veterans. Yes, You Can! also explores changes in health and function across one's lifespan, providing up-to-the-minute information on mental and emotional well-being, relationships and sexuality, assistive technology, mobility, and other vital issues that can have a profound impact on quality of life.
"When I first received the book at the beginning of my VA care, I read it cover to cover," said Dave B., a U.S. Army veteran who had a spinal cord infection in 2016 that resulted in paraplegia. "It helped me to understand my injury…. (and) was a comfort to know there were people who understood and knew how to help. Everyone with SCI/D should be encouraged to read it."
Like PVA, the guide recognizes that no two experiences with SCI are the same and that a person's questions and needs can change significantly over time. Whether someone is newly injured and navigating rehabilitation or has lived with paralysis for decades and is facing new medical, mobility, or aging-related considerations, Yes, You Can! is designed to remain relevant throughout every stage of life.
"People living with a spinal cord injury or diagnosis deserve information that reflects the realities of their lives today," said Lindsay Perlman, director of Research and Education at Paralyzed Veterans of America. "This guide gave PVA an opportunity to present the latest in science and clinical guidance but also broaden the conversations to topics essential to the whole person."
Commissioned by PVA, Yes, You Can! was written and edited by VA SCI clinicians and included input from individuals with lived experience with PVA administrating guidance, support and feedback. Working in collaboration, the guide translates complex health information into accessible, practical guidance for people with SCI, their families, caregivers, and health care providers.
Yes, You Can! was released just two days after PVA launched "ONE of ONE," a new public awareness campaign highlighting the nonprofits impact and dual mission of supporting veterans with SCI and diseases, like MS and ALS and advancing the accessibility and well-being of people with disabilities.
For eight decades, PVA has combined specialized expertise with advocacy, research, health care, benefits, accessibility, and direct support in a way no other organization does. PVA's Yes, You Can! exemplifies that approach by bringing SCI experts and veterans with lived experience to the table to help the greater SCI community lead healthier, more independent, fulfilling lives like everyone else.
Visit PVA.org/YesYouCan to view, download, and purchase the latest edition of Yes, You Can! today.
About Paralyzed Veterans of America
Paralyzed Veterans of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or diseases. The organization ensures veterans receive the benefits earned through service to our nation; monitors their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funds research and education in the search for a cure and improved care for individuals with paralysis.
As a life-long partner and advocate for veterans and all people with disabilities, PVA also develops training and career services, works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, and provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and recreation. With more than 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans of America serves veterans, their families, and their caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Learn more at PVA.org/Yes, You Can!
Contact: Oname Thompson
(703) 864-5980 cell
SOURCE Paralyzed Veterans of America
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