Request a peer mentor
The best source of knowledge is experience. That’s why we created the Peer & Family Support Program for people living with paralysis, as well as those who care for them, to come together for hope, support, and a way forward.
Quick Links
Ways to request a peer mentor
☏Give us a call
Our program coordinators are available Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm ET. You can also leave a message, if you are calling after hours.
1-800-539-7309
⬒Schedule a call
Schedule a call with a program coordinator at a time convenient for you.
✉Send a question
A program coordinator will respond as soon as possible.
Meet people just like you: Our peer mentors
Our mentors are living with paralysis or caring for someone living with paralysis and understand what you are going through.
Joseph, 69
Location: Washington
Injury or relation:
Spinal cord injury, T2 for 10 years
Sunshine, 41
Location: Maryland
Injury or relation:
Spinal cord injury, T4, T5 for 16 years
Joel, 39
Location: Iowa
Injury or relation:
Spinal cord injury, C2, C3 vent dependent for 34 years
What happens after I apply?
1. We contact you
We have a quick chat, to make sure we really understand your needs.
2. We match you
We find the right mentor for you, one that you can relate to.
3. You have a mentor
Your mentor reaches out and you connect in the way that suits you.
About our peer mentoring program
We offer free mentoring to anyone seeking help. Our peer mentors will provide answers and support, share what they have learned, and help you overcome challenges.
Whether you are newly paralyzed, have been living with paralysis for years, or are a family member or caregiver, we have a peer mentor who knows what you are going through.
Frequently asked questions
What is a peer mentor?
A peer mentor is someone just like you. They’ve asked the same questions and faced similar challenges to you. They may not have the answers to all of your questions, but they will listen and provide a perspective that only someone that lives with those challenges can provide.
What kind of mentor will I be matched with?
We work hard to match you with the right person. We consider age, gender, cause of paralysis, level of injury, ethnicity, veteran status, interests, and where you live.
What kinds of things will we talk about?
It’s up to you. If you’re living with paralysis, you might want to discover what your possibilities are, or how to reach your goals. You may have questions about things like gaining confidence, going back to school or work, starting a family or about adaptive activites, durable medical equipment, or secondary conditions.
What if there are no mentors near me?
If we do not have a peer mentor in your area that matches you well, we will utilize remote mentoring. We will match you with a peer mentor within our national network who will work with you via phone, email, or Skype.
What happens after I’m matched?
Your mentor will reach out, and you decide the type, frequency, and length of your discussions. You decide what to talk about.