ABOUT THRIVE

THRIVE is how the Thomas E. Smith Foundation (TESF) invests in people. We created THRIVE to offer comprehensive and innovative programming to support persons with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and paralysis across their continuum of care.

We provide support at every stage of the care continuum, including the initial “acute” care stage, the “transitional” care stage, and the “long-term” care. This approach delivers several key benefits:

• Improved quality of life: By addressing the physical, emotional, and social needs of individuals with SCI at every stage of their recovery, Thrive helps them achieve a higher quality of life.
• Enhanced independence: Our programs are designed to empower individuals to regain independence and participate fully in their communities.
• Caregiver education: By providing support and resources to caregivers, Thrive helps alleviate stress and improve their well-being.
• Personalized care: Thrive tailors its services to meet the unique needs of each individual, enabling them to get the support they require.

Through THRIVE, the TESF is capable of supporting persons with SCI and paralysis with a comprehensive and personalized approach to care. This approach supports the individual’s recovery journey, and helps them reach their full potential.

Navigating a health crisis can be overwhelming. The Thomas E. Smith Foundation is a compassionate and supportive partner, helping individuals, their caretakers and families navigate the early stages of a spinal cord injury (SCI) and living with paralysis. We offer:

Emotional Support

• Individual guidance: Personalized support to help you process your emotions and cope with challenges.
• Family support: Resources for loved ones who are also impacted by your illness or injury.

Caretaker Education

Caring for someone can be physically and emotionally demanding. We provide:

• Information and resources: Review best practices and options to maximize greatest potential mobility and wellbeing for inpatient treatment.
• Support groups: Identify opportunities to connect with other caregivers and share experiences.

Transition Planning

As you prepare to leave the hospital, we’ll work with you to:

• Identify appropriate care settings: Review best options for rehabilitation that meet your specific needs.
• Assess transportation requirements: Help you explore transportation options to ensure a smooth transition.
• Address financial concerns: Discuss potential funding sources and explore financial assistance programs including personal fundraisers.

Individual and Caretaker Education

SCI & Paralysis is new territory for anyone who has not experienced it. We are here to help with:

• Supporting resources: Share information about partners to help individuals and caregivers better understand how to effectively manage your care and recovery.
• Community & Support groups: Provide local and/or national support groups to engage with.

Home Accessibility and Transportation Planning

We’ll work with you to:

• Assess your home environment: Evaluate your home’s accessibility to determine if any in-home equipment or modifications are needed.
• Identify transportation options: Explore transportation options that can help you get to appointments and activities.

Navigating Outpatient Rehabilitation Providers

We’ll assist you in:

• Finding the right provider: Identify qualified outpatient rehabilitation providers in your area.
• Ensuring quality care: Help you choose a provider that offers the best possible care based on your specific needs.

Workplace Accessibility and Inclusivity Initiative

We advocate for:

• Inclusive workplaces: Promote policies and practices that accommodate individuals with paralysis.
• Inclusive academic environments: Promote policies and practices that accommodate students with paralysis. 
• Accessibility accommodations: Assist in securing necessary accommodations to facilitate employment.
• Career development: Provide resources and support for career success.

Community Engagement & Activities

We offer:

• Social activities: Facilitate events and outings for individuals and their families to connect who share similar experiences. 
• Community engagement: Facilitate participation in community activities and events for social interaction and networking.
• Personal Interests: Explore opportunities for personal enrichment including athletics, entertainment, music, arts, family activities, and social gatherings.
• Advocacy: Promote awareness and advocate for the rights of individuals living with paralysis.