The Spinal Cord Injury Centre (SCIC) at Military Hospital Khadki, recognized as the largest facility of its kind within the Armed Forces Medical Services, commemorated World Spinal Cord Injury Day 2025 with a heartfelt and motivational event. The ceremony, held today, was graced by Lt Gen DS Kushwah, AVSM, SM, the newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Maharashtra, Gujarat & Goa Area, who served as the Chief Guest.
This event underscores the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to the rehabilitation of spinal cord-injured soldiers, transforming disability into ability.Highlights of the EventThe day featured a series of inspiring activities designed to uplift and empower patients:
- Motivational Talks by Para-Athletes: Alumni of the SCIC, Lt Col Sahil Gautam and Rfn Nir Bahadur Gurung (Retd), a recipient of the prestigious Dhyan Chand Award, shared their remarkable journeys as paralympic champions. Their stories of resilience are supported by a 2022 study from the Journal of Rehabilitation Research, which found that peer-led interventions can enhance psychological resilience in spinal injury patients by up to 35%.
- Launch of “Saksham” Magazine: The annual magazine, dedicated to showcasing the resilience and achievements of patients, was released, symbolizing hope and determination.
- Inspiring Mouth-Painting Exhibition: Quadriplegic patients showcased their artistic talents through mouth-painting, earning appreciation from Mrs. Shalini Kushwah. A 2019 study in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation highlighted that engaging in creative activities can reduce depression among such patients by approximately 40%, reinforcing the therapeutic value of art.
- Symbolic Balloon Release: The event concluded with a symbolic release of balloons, representing the soaring spirits of the patients.
A Legacy of RehabilitationThe SCIC at Military Hospital Khadki continues to build on its legacy, as evidenced by a similar event in 2023 that inspired over 200 patients with recovery stories from para-athletes. Lt Gen Kushwah emphasized the Indian Army’s dedication to providing comprehensive neurorehabilitation and support, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
This event not only celebrated the achievements of patients but also highlighted the critical role of peer mentorship and creative therapy in the recovery process, setting a benchmark for military medicine and rehabilitation worldwide.
