Advocacy efforts continue to strengthen VA support for paralyzed veterans
On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) National President Robert L. Thomas Jr., brought the voices of veterans with spinal cord injuries directly to Capitol Hill. Thomas testified before the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs during a crucial hearing focused on “Strengthening Services for Veterans with Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder.”
The hearing brought together a diverse panel of advocates, medical professionals and VA leadership to address the ongoing challenges faced by veterans living with spinal cord injuries and disorders. Thomas joined fellow advocates, including Navy veteran Dr. Shelly Hoover, who lives with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Mandi Bailey from the Veteran ALS Action Committee and Mary Ward, a veteran spouse and caregiver who serves as a fellow with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation.
The second panel featured key VA leadership, including Dr. Erica Scavella, assistant under secretary of health for clinical services, and Dr. Itala Manosha Wickremasinghe, executive director of the VA’s Spinal Cord Injuries and Disorders (SCI/D) System of Care. Their presence underscored the department’s commitment to addressing these critical health care needs.
This hearing represents PVA’s ongoing efforts to ensure veterans with spinal cord injuries and diseases receive the specialized, comprehensive care they’ve earned through their service. The organization continues to work closely with Congress and the VA to identify gaps in services and advocate for improvements that can make a meaningful difference in veterans’ lives.
The testimony comes at a crucial time as lawmakers consider funding and policy decisions that will shape veteran health care services for years to come. PVA remains committed to being the voice for paralyzed veterans in these important discussions.
You can see the entire testimony at the U.S. Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.