Welcome to Hawaii SCI

Welcome to the Hawaii Chapter of the United Spinal Cord Injury website! We have started this venture with the intent to provide equitable access to care for our mobility challenged population who experience unique issues living here in Hawaii.

Hawaii is one of the most wonderful places in the world to live. The land, culture and its people make up the Aloha State. The experience is remarkable, but with distinct characteristics that can present challenges for individuals with disabilities. Its location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, 2500 miles from the mainland United States, impacts on all aspects of the spectrum of care and way of life, from access to resources and care expertise, to obtaining and maintaining durable medical equipment (DME). In addition, access to these supplies and resources are also generally limited to the main island of Oahu, necessitating a flight to Honolulu, for those living on one of the neighboring islands.

Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month provides an opportunity to raise awareness, advocate for change and celebrate the achievements of those living with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month is recognized annually in September. Resolutions, such as S. Res. 867 for 2024 and S. Res. 367 for 2023, which were passed formally through the U.S. Senate, designate the month, support research and treatments for spinal cord injuries and commend the efforts of individuals, organizations, and families dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by paralysis.

2025 is the year in which we here in Hawaii will start the process of creating this space for all those who have mobility challenges, to provide resources, evidence based information, and connections to others in the community who are also living with disability who can provide practical counsel and tips toward an independent life.

Our Vision

Every individual living in Hawaii and the Pacific Basin with a spinal cord injury, will thrive in a community rooted in Aloha, where environmental accessibility is fully realized, and a strong, culturally respectful network of resources uplifts each person’s path toward well-being and independence.

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Our Mission

The mission of the Hawaii Spinal Cord Injury Chapter (HawaiiSCI) is to empower individuals living with spinal cord injuries across Hawaii and throughout the Pacific, to reach their highest potential for a fulfilling life.

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Laying the Foundation

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Our Purpose

We exist to ensure that people in Hawaii and the Pacific with spinal cord injuries can live with dignity, independence, and connection. Our programs, resources, and advocacy are designed to meet everyday needs and open doors to opportunity.

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Our Dream

We imagine a future where accessibility is the norm, support is woven into the community, and every individual with a spinal cord injury can thrive and contribute fully.

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Community First

We believe the best solutions come from those living daily with spinal cord injuries. That is why our programs are shaped by the voices of survivors, families, and caregivers right here in Hawaii. This isn’t just support for the community—it’s support built by the community.

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How We Got Started

Our journey began with a simple question: where can someone with a spinal cord injury in Hawaii turn for immediate, local support? A small group of survivors, caregivers, and friends came together to create a nonprofit that fills this gap—offering resources, connection, and hope from day one.

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Whether you are newly injured, a long-time survivor, or a caring supporter, you belong here. Together we share resources, encouragement, and the belief that life after spinal cord injury is stronger when we face it side by side.