New to SCI?

This page is designed for people and their families with new spinal cord injuries to get oriented and learn the basics you need to hit the ground moving on day one. Shortly after arriving at the Inpatient Rehab, you will receive a handout to help you keep track of your educational progress. At the end of your stay we will review what you've accomplished and ask for your feedback so we can do better.

Here is your learning curriculum. Plan on completing the 4 steps below before going home. Talk with your rehab team to decide what is more important for you. Use your personal device or ask your rehab team for help.

#1 Reeves Health Minute Video Playlist 

• These short video clips give a simple introduction to many of the topics you need to explore.

• Most videos are less than 3 minutes.  The entire video  list takes only about 1 hour to complete.

#2 FacingDisability

• FacingDisability.com is a website rich with information from experts and people with lived experience with SCI. Videos here are also just a couple minutes each. 

• Please visit the following places:

  • What to you wish you had known at the beginning?  

  • Expert Videos: Explore a couple videos in at least 3 topics. See what is interesting to you or ask your rehab team for suggestions

  • Personal Interviews: Explore a couple videos in at least 3 topics.  Consider searching for people with your similar age, gender and/or injury.

  • SCI Resources: Get familiar with different other resources that could help you. Click through different topics. For resources local to Cleveland, see the NORSCIS Resource Guide.

#3 Creating a New Normal (CANN)

• Creating A New Normal (CANN) was developed to bridge the gap between what is taught in the inpatient rehab setting and the life lessons learned post-rehab. This group session will meet weekly on Wednesdays on the MetroHealth 6N Inpatient Rehab Unit - in the common area by the TV - from 4-5pm EST.

• Share real, lived experiences from diverse backgrounds with different Peer Mentors each week

• Six topics will be addressed, one per week, on a rotating basis.

1. Adjusting to life/Developing a Growth Mindset

2. Community Integration & Resources

3. Advocating For Yourself (in healthcare & the community)

4. General Bowel & Bladder Maintenance

5. Maintaining Skin Health

6. Reducing Pain

#4 MSKTC Factsheets

• Everyone admitted to MetroHealth with an SCI should get a printed copy of all the MSKTC factsheets (in English or en Español). This comprehensive booklet can be your go-to home reference for any number of topics.

• Review it with your Rehab Medical Team to see what is most important for your specific conditions.

Learning takes effort but we know your educational goals are vital to a solid foundation for the rest of your life. 

#5 Before leaving please complete this survey to help us improve the quality of SCI education.