80 Years of Impact.
Let’s Go Further.
Celebrate 80 Years of Spinal Cord Injury Ontario
Your support has brought us this far. With your help, we can go even further.
Watch: 80 Years of Momentum
From our beginnings in 1945 to today, SCIO has been a source of community, advocacy, and change. Watch our 80th anniversary story.
More stories coming soon – check back weekly as we celebrate our clients, partners, and progress.
Voices of Impact
Throughout the campaign, we’ll be sharing stories from clients, families, and advocates whose lives have been transformed. These are their voices.
SCIO turns 80: A Celebration of Legacy, Community & Impact
As SCIO marks its 80th year, we celebrate more than longevity; we celebrate impact. From founding veterans to modern advocates, peer mentors, and the broader community, every person is part of our story.
An Amazing Legacy Is Forged
Learn how John Counsell went from thinking that his spinal cord injury meant his life was over to leading the fight for full and fair lives and forging a legacy that has helped tens of thousands … and counting.
Accessibility Champions
Know a business, individual or community making accessibility real? Nominate your Accessibility Champion today and help us shine a spotlight on the difference they’re making!
Happy Birthday SCIO
Together, we’re not only celebrating 80 years of progress, but we are also investing in the next 80 years of advocacy, peer mentorship, community, and innovation.
Moments That Moved Us
From black-and-white beginnings to colourful breakthroughs, this gallery showcases the milestones, memories, and movement of our community over 80 years.
Moments That Moved Us
From black-and-white beginnings to colourful breakthroughs, this gallery showcases the milestones, memories, and movement of our community over 80 years.
Donate and Double Your Impact Today
Your $50 → Becomes $100
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, all donations during this campaign will be matched 2x — meaning your gift goes even further to support people living with spinal cord injuries.
“SCIO gave me my independence back — and that’s priceless.”
From a Circle of Chairs to a Movement
In 1945, a group of veterans gathered in a circle of wheelchairs. Today, SCIO supports thousands across Ontario through advocacy, peer support, and programs that empower independence.
- Launch of Peer Program
- Provincial advocacy wins
- SCI research breakthroughs
Let’s Build the Future Together
Your gift today will help us continue pushing boundaries for the next 80 years. Every donation matters — and now, it can go 2x as far.
Stories That Shape Us
Every story here adds a voice to the journey. Thank you to those who shared their path with SCIO over these past 80 years.
One of the most life-changing moments came when I was introduced by Alec to adaptive sports through Spinal Cord Injury Ontario. Getting him to go cross-country skiing was more than just about sports—it was about freedom, confidence, and joy again. Seeing Glen return to movement and competition reminded all of us that recovery isn’t just […]
When I had my accident, my world changed overnight. I was terrified, overwhelmed, and unsure of what kind of life I could have. There were days filled with frustration, sadness, and moments when I couldn’t even lift my head to meet someone’s eyes. I felt disconnected from the world around me. Then I found Spinal […]
