The F. M. Kirby Foundation is proud to celebrate more than 30 years of partnership with the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, a New Jersey–based nonprofit dedicated to curing spinal cord injuries through groundbreaking research, while enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families affected by paralysis. Founded in 1982 and later renamed to honor Christopher and Dana Reeve, the Foundation has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in both scientific research and quality-of-life programs for those living with paralysis.

Two decades ago, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation identified neurostimulation — electrical stimulation targeting the spinal cord to restore lost function — as one of the most promising areas of research. This technology activates remaining nerve pathways, potentially improving movement, bladder control, blood pressure and more after SCI. Reeve’s early investments in this approach, including the landmark “Big Idea” initiative, helped bring about the world’s first FDA-approved non-invasive spinal cord stimulation therapy by ONWARD Medical. The Foundation’s continued support for neurostimulation and related areas of research underscore its leadership in advancing high-risk, high-reward research with the potential to transform lives.

At the same time, our National Paralysis Resource Center’s Quality of Life Grants Program, created by the late Dana Reeve, strives to help individuals with disabilities and their families by providing grants to nonprofit organizations that improve quality of life through access, independence, opportunities for community engagement, and other life-enhancing endeavors.  The F. M. Kirby Foundation is proud to stand alongside the Reeve Foundation in its work to merge scientific innovation with humanity.