Chapter President's Report
Dear Colonial Chapter Members,
As we begin a new year together, I want to take a moment to reflect on the strength of our Chapter and the direction we are heading. It is truly an honor to serve as President of the Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, and I remain deeply grateful for the trust you place in our Board and staff.
The Colonial Chapter continues to grow not just in membership and impact. Over the past year, we have strengthened programs that support our members’ independence, health, and quality of life, while also expanding opportunities for connection, education, and advocacy. From recreational and wellness programming to initiatives supporting women veterans, individuals living with SCI/D, caregivers, and families, our work is driven by one clear priority: serving you.
Our Board of Directors remains committed to best-practice governance and thoughtful oversight. We work closely with our Executive Director and staff to ensure the Chapter remains financially sound, mission-focused, and responsive to the needs of our members. Strategic planning, fiscal responsibility, and program sustainability continue to guide our decisions as we look toward the future.
This year, we are especially excited about the expansion of accessible and adaptive programming, including new partnerships that create meaningful, life-enriching experiences for our members. These efforts reflect our belief that community, participation, and opportunity are essential to well-being — and that every veteran deserves access to them.
None of this would be possible without the dedication of our staff, the leadership of our Board, the support of our partners, and — most importantly — the involvement of our members. Your engagement, feedback, and participation shape who we are as a Chapter and ensure that our mission remains strong and relevant.
As we move forward in 2026, please know that the Board remains committed to listening, learning, and leading with purpose. I look forward to another year of progress, connection, and shared accomplishment, and I am proud of all that we continue to build together.
Thank you for being part of the Colonial Chapter family.
Warm regards,
Kathleen Fitzpatrick
Kathleen Fitzpatrick President Paralyzed Veterans of America, Colonial Chapter
Executive Director's Report
Dear Members,
One of the greatest joys of serving as Executive Director of the Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America is witnessing the strength of our members. This Chapter is about more than programs. It is about people coming together, supporting one another, and building meaningful connections.
As we look ahead to 2026, I am proud of the wide range of free, fully accessible events planned for our members and their families. Throughout the year, we will offer opportunities focused on recreation, wellness, creativity, education, and camaraderie — whether in person, outdoors, or from the comfort of your home.
We are especially excited to be partnering with Three Blessings Disabled Adventures to expand our adaptive outdoor programming. Through this collaboration, members will have access to experiences such as adaptive hunting, cycling, kayaking, camping, and trail riding. These events are about restoring independence, confidence, and the joy of being active in a supportive environment.
Alongside outdoor adventures, we will continue offering virtual workshops and creative sessions that promote mental health and lifelong learning — from adaptive fitness and healthy cooking to gardening, painting, and baking. Our retreats and holiday gatherings remain important opportunities to connect and celebrate together.
All events are completely free for members and their families, including participation, food, supplies, and hotels when applicable. Space is limited for many events, so early registration is encouraged. The full 2026 event schedule and registration details can be found in this newsletter.
I also encourage everyone to visit our newly updated website, which includes information on events, programs, and member grant forms. A sincere thank you to our Marketing Director Jason Spohn for his hard work on the update. Please visit www.colonialpva.org.
Thank you for being part of the Colonial Chapter family. Your involvement and trust make this Chapter strong, and I look forward to seeing you throughout the year as we continue to build a connected, supportive chapter community together.
With gratitude,
Jo Ann Bedsworth Executive Director
Colonial
Chapter,
Paralyzed Veterans of America
JANUARY
Eddie Belton 01/01
Steven Jones 01/01
Fredrick Craw 01/02
Ibrahim Hashi 01/02
Terry Laurenzi 01/03
Robert Eastman 01/04
Walter Reifsnyder 01/05
Desiree Young 01/06
Lori Mininger-Costello 01/08
Debra Hazzard 01/09
Thurman Fegans 01/11
Robert Smith 01/12
Elisabeth Carus 01/13
Elmer Titus 01/15
Paul Hamilton 01/15
Wallace Daniels 01/16
Ronald Keonig 01/16
Lawrence Lutman 01/16
Sara Baranowski 01/18
Houston Williams 01/20
Dante Profili 01/25
Terry Zimmerman 01/25
John Rinarelli 01/26
Jimmy Davis 01/27
Betty Geer 01/27
Nathan DeWalt 01/28
Joseph Taureck 01/29
Adolph Blauhut 01/30
Carlton Allen 01/30
Ronald Lindemuth 01/30
Wayne Carter 01/31
BIRTHDAYS
FEBRUARY
Patrick Burns 02/02
Wesley Redd 02/04
Lisa Markland 02/05
Anthony Malat 02/05
Timothy Brennan 02/06
Duane Claytor 02/07
Theodore Kornicki 02/07
Johnny Harrison 02/09
Charles Zellner 02/11
Craig Duncan 02/11
Hazel Rodriguez 02/12
David Collins 02/13
David Timberman 02/13
Douglas Carmon 02/13
Jeffrey McNeil 02/13
Earl Richardson 02/14
Richard Stern 02/16
Gerald Baker 02/17
Cynthia Baker 02/24
Crystal Young-Terrell 02/26
Charles Gilpatrick 02/28
MARCH
Brandon Deen 03/02
Michael Spencer 03/03
Theodore Flaxman 03/04
Jai Johnson 03/05
Alfred Watson 03/06
TAPS
David Wands - 10/20/2025
Robert Reuter 03/07
Ray Allen Huskins 03/09
Sara Campbell 03/12
Ann Adair 03/13
Douglas Pierce 03/16
Lawrence Shinaberry 03/19
Julian Richardson 03/19
Trish Hopkins 03/20
John Pepe 03/21
Antwuan Dunmore 03/25
Robert Duncan 03/28
Cecil Gold 03/30
Carl Davis 03/31
Nelson Locklear 03/31
APRIL
Richard Evans 04/04
Erika Wallace 04/06
Donald Renne 04/09
Charles Branson 04/11
Gary Jackson 04/11
Justin McGarrity 04/11
Francis Kearns 04/12
Ella Robinson 04/15
Robert Nabors 04/16
Douglas Witcraft 04/19
Matthew Peeling 04/21
Adrian Watkins 04/21
Marcus Murray 04/22
Ventura Catala 04/24
Rahshe Byrd 04/25
Wayne Beachy 04/27
Rafael Negron 04/28
Colonial PVA Programs
OPEN TO EVERYONE
MS Program
Host Jerrod Harris and Co-Host Jennifer Small produce and deliver monthly Teams meetings that takes our members on a journey plus connects them to their peers. You get to hear from your peers about living and managing their MS, and they are known to have guest speakers who give resources and support for navigating everyday life.
Women Veterans Program
Colonial Chapter of the PVA provides an opportunity for women veterans to form bonds, share experiences, remind the community and themselves that they served too! Chair Betty Geer and Co-Chair Kathleen Fitzpatrick have virtual meetings on the first Tuesday of every month on Zoom.
Weekly "Chill & Chat"
Looking to take a coffee break every week and talk with others in the Colonial Family? Looking for a place to just pop in and listen to others for inspiration? Join Jennifer Small and others every Monday from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm EST. on Microsoft Teams. Here, you can discuss whatever is on your mind cause sometimes, communication outside of your circle is good for the soul.
UPCOMING EVENTS
02/21
ADAPTIVE BOWLING TOURNAMENT
Bowlero - Wilmington DE 10AM – 3 PM | Sign Up Today
04/25
ADAPTIVE TURKEY HUNT
Colonial Chapter & Three Blessings Disabled Adventures
Havre de Grace MD |
06/21-06/27
GREAT OHIO BICYCLE ADVENTURE (GOBA)
Cycling Through Ohio's Scenic Route 250 corridor Register by 05/01/2026
03/18
GARDENING LUNCHEON
Virtual Event on Microsoft Teams - Supplies Provided 2:00PM | Sign Up Today
08/07 - 08/09
ADAPTIVE KAYAKING, CAMPING & TRAIL RIDING COLONIAL PVA & THREE BLESSINGS SPONSORED EVENT
Trap Pond - Laurel, DE 10/2026
GALLEN GETAWAY SPEAKER: ISABELLA LINTON
DATES & LOCATION COMING SOON
05/21
HEALTH & WELLNESS WORKSHOP
Presented by: Crystal Young-Terrell (Sports Director)
Time To Be Determined
CONTACT
07/15/2026
WATERCOLOR PAINTING
Watercolor painting session sponsored by Colonial PVA Register by June 1st, 2026
09/16-09-17/2026
ADAPTIVE FISHING ON FISH REDEEMER
COLONIAL PVA SPONSORED Space is Limited - Dameron, MD 11/2026
HOLIDAY BAKING CLASS (VIRTUAL)
SPEAKER: JASON SPOHN
DATE & TIME COMING SOON
The Colonial Chapter officially announces the forthcoming election for the next Board of Directors!
Only certified members of the Colonial Chapter in good standing are eligible to submit their Letter of Intent for a position as well as a brief biography.
Positions open for the election are
• President
• Vice President
• Secretary
• Treasurer
• Board of Director
Ballots and candidate biogrpahies will be sent out on September 15th, 2026. All ballots must be returned before October 15th, 2026.
On Thursday, November 12th, 2026, the election committee will process the votes and annouce the winners live. Winners will be notified via letter and the results will be in our newsletter "The Ramp".
Journey to Antarctica
By: Betty Geer
In 2013, while watching Jeopardy, our evening ritual, Alex Trebek announced an opportunity for the home viewers to win a trip to the Galapagos with National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions! My mind raced with excitement. I thought about how perfect it was to mix education with travel. At the time, I had just recently retired from 22 years of military service - Navy and Air Force Reserves and still ached to travel more. However, I was still working at the Office of Inspector General at the EPA and had a delightful 14-year-old child at home. I then “cubby-holed” this travel plan for a future date. The following year, I was diagnosed with not one, but two central nervous system disorders. My face turned pale when the neurologist told me after looking at my first MRI scan, that I had a brain tumor. However, after more consultations with different neurologists they all agreed that they would treat me for Multiple Sclerosis (due to the demyelination in my brain) and a low-grade glioma (LGG) on my brainstem.
Today I see a neurologist at the Philadelphia VA Hospital and a neuro-oncologist at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital. The doctors told me that as long as the LGG is stable, they would not biopsy it. Biopsying a lesion on the brainstem could cause irreparable harm so they elected to instead monitor it closely. My symptoms of tingling/numbness/tightness in my legs and hands, facial pain and insomnia continue but I refuse to let it define me. I continue to walk 4 to 5 times a week with my husband and do exercises for strength and flexibility.
In early 2025, my husband and I decided it was time to make my dream come true by scheduling our educational travel expedition. We decided on an 11-day voyage to Antarctica with National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions scheduled for January 2026. Five months prior to our trip, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I was extremely concerned that we would have to cancel or postpone our trip due to my new diagnosis. My breast cancer was caught early (thank you wisdomstudy.org). I had a partial mastectomy surgery and 4 weeks of radiation but after that I was ready to go on the expedition!
We flew from Philadelphia, PA to Santiago, Chile where we met the other 136 passengers that were on the same expedition cruise. This was my first time in South America. From Santiago Chile, we flew to Ushuaia, Argentina which is known as “Fin del Mundo” or the End of the World. This is notably the southernmost point of South America. We toured Tierra del Fuego National Park, and it was here that we boarded the ship Resolution to Antarctica.
Photos by Betty Geer
It took two days and 850 nautical miles of crossing the extremely turbulent waters of Drake’s Passage, the apex where three oceans converge, the Southern, Atlantic and Pacific, to finally arrive at the Antarctica Peninsula. Antarctica is regarded as the last great wilderness on our planet. We had crossed the Antarctica Circle (66 degrees south latitude) and had arrived at Pourquoi Pas Island where a colony of Adelie penguins were living. We loaded into zodiac boats to take us to the island. There we could explore the wildlife and the landscape, still pristine with little evidence of human activity. Lindblad Expeditions is a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). This organization follows strict guidelines in preserving the ecosystem of Antarctica. Consequently only 100 passengers could be ashore at any given time. We also could only be ashore for 1.5 hrs and we were not allowed to sit or drop any items on the land. We had to keep the environment free of human activity as much as possible.
The next five days we took two zodiac boat excursions per day to see Adelie, Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins, humpback whales, crabeater seals, leopard seals and many different types of Antarctic birds.
By day four, we crossed the 70 degree South latitude, a first for Lindblad Expeditions on an 11-day voyage. The ship’s captain and crew had settled upon arriving at George VI Sound Ice Shelf where we would spend the day. The ice shelf was 6 feet thick but the ship, National Geographic Resolution, was built to break through ice. It took two attempts to get the ship far enough on the ice shelf where the passengers could safely exit. Then, while on the ice shelf, passengers could cross-country ski, snow-shoe, or relax from their balcony on the ship. Allen and I walked around the ice shelf, it was a beautiful sunny day. A group of 12 Adelie penguins and three beautiful Emperor penguins joined us on the ice shelf. We then retired to our cabin’s balcony where we had a birds-eye view of all the happenings that afternoon.
I loved all of Antarctica that we visited, however my favorite and the most surreal experience came when we visited Stonington Island, to the site of a decommissioned British Research Station. After touring the dilapidated station, we walked behind the building and were exposed to over 180 degrees panorama of magnificently large glaciers. While watching the glaciers you could begin to hear the glaciers calving or tearing away from the large mass and falling into the sea. The sound of this was indescribable.
After nearly 11 days at sea, all of my MS symptoms had subsided. I felt great most of the trip and I remember feeling on top of the world while walking on the ship because my pain and spasticity were gone. However, as our ship returned to port in Ushuaia, Argentina, I listened to an educational session by one of the National Geographic naturalists. That’s when I noticed my feet began to tingle and I realized my legs were numb up to my knees. It is true that flare-ups can be reduced by lower temperatures and lower humidity. There is improved nerve function in cold, dry conditions which may help conduct signals more efficiently.
Antarctica qualifies as the largest desert in the world due to its extremely low annual precipitation. For me, it was wonderful to travel to a location, pain-free and truly feel free in one of the earth’s most magical and serene places, Antarctica!
Betty Geer is a Colonial Chapter PVA member and Chair of the Chapter's Women Veterans Program.
"It was simply like no other place on the planet- so beautiful, so pristine and so magical. It was other-worldly."
Do you have an idea for an article in an upcoming edition of The Ramp for the Colonial Chapter? Do you know of anything to make aware to our members, volunteers, donors and more that you would like to share? Reach out today for the next edition!
Please send your submissions to Jspohn@colonialpva.org or call the office at 302-861-6671
Philadelphia Regional Office Annual Report 2025
By Joseph Weeks, East-North Area Manager PVA
Philadelphia Regional Office
Joseph Weeks (North East Area Manager) and Violet Graham (Senior Administrative Assistant) provide assistance and advocate for any Veteran that may reach out to our office. Our primary mission is to advocate for Veterans who have a spinal cord injury or spinal cord disease. The Veterans we assist are comprised of members (M), those eligible for membership (ME), survivors, and nonmembers (NM).
In 2025, the PVA office in Philadelphia added 67 new clients, 60 of them are eligible for membership. As a result of the claims we filed, the office secured 10.5 million dollars in monetary benefits for our clients; 96 percent of the money awarded went to M/MEs. This figure does not account for the monetary value we have saved our clients by ensuring VA provides them with quality & timely health care, needed durable medical equipment, and home/vehicle modifications allowing them to maintain an independent lifestyle.
Annual Benefits Increase
The following benefits and grants have increased since my last report. Here are the 2025-2026 valuations.
• Compensation increased by 2.8 percent
• Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) - $126,526
• Special Housing Adaptations (SHA)-$ 25,350
• Automobile Grant-$27,074.99
• Single Clothing Allowance – $ 1,053.19
If you have questions about your eligibility for these benefits, please contact us and we would be happy to explain the criteria to you.
Colonial Chapter Attend C.F.C Event at Pentagon
participated in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) event at the Pentagon, having been specially invited by the Department of the Navy. Representing the chapter were Joann Bedsworth and Jason Spohn, who enthusiastically engaged with service members, civilian employees, and fellow veterans to promote the CFC and highlight PVA’s vital work. They shared how donor support through federal giving powers essential programs—including advocacy, healthcare navigation, adaptive sports, wheelchair accessibility initiatives, and research—that help paralyzed veterans live full, independent lives. The event offered an excellent platform to showcase the direct impact of workplace giving while building stronger connections with the Navy and the wider military community. Joann and Jason returned inspired by the positive reception and reaffirmed commitment to advancing the mission through continued federal campaign participation.
Getaway Recap
10/17/2025 - 10/19/2025
The Gallen Getaway 2025, hosted by the Colonial Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America, was a resounding success from October 17–19 at the iconic Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Veterans, along with their spouses and caregivers, gathered for a restorative weekend filled with relaxation, camaraderie, and meaningful connection amid the vibrant energy of the boardwalk and oceanfront setting. Attendees enjoyed the hotel’s world-class amenities, live entertainment, delicious dining, and accessible accommodations, creating an uplifting atmosphere that fostered peer support and rejuvenation. Highlights included shared experiences, laughter-filled moments, and opportunities to unwind in a welcoming environment tailored to the needs of our paralyzed veterans community. The event once again honored the legacy of Scott Gallen while strengthening the bonds that empower our members and their families—thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, and supported this memorable getaway!
SIRUS MIKLOS
By Jason Spohn Marketing Director
Colonial Chapter PVA
The story of 7-year-old Sirus Miklos from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, continues to touch hearts and reminds us of the profound impact we can have when we stand together. Born with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Sirus relies on a wheelchair for mobility and a specialized school bus to reach his classroom each day. What should have been a simple morning routine turned painful when impatient drivers began honking, yelling, and harassing him and his family at the bus stop. The sight of grown adults directing frustration and anger at a young child in a wheelchair was deeply upsetting—and completely unacceptable.
When the story spread nationally and went viral, it struck a powerful chord within our Paralyzed Veterans of America family. Amy Patterson, a paralyzed former Marine from Orlando, Florida, and a dedicated member of our National Board of Directors, felt the injustice personally. She immediately reached out to the Miklos family and worked with our Colonial Chapter to respond with action and support.
On December 5, 2025, Amy traveled to the Harrisburg area alongside several of our chapter members— including myself (Jason Spohn, Marketing Director), Executive Director Joann Bedsworth, and Chapter Treasurer Chris Bryant—to meet Sirus and his family face-to-face. We arrived bearing holiday cheer: Christmas gifts including a new tablet, stuffed animals, tickets for a ride on the Strasburg Railroad and a visit with Santa—and most meaningfully, a special certificate officially naming Sirus an Honorary Member of the Colonial Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America.
Supporting Our Newest Honorary Member Continued
That moment carried real weight. Amy spoke from the heart: “I was incensed that a little boy in a wheelchair can’t go to school without being bullied by adults. I wanted to make sure that the Paralyzed Veterans of America stood up and let this family know that Sirus has a community that absolutely supports him.
”Sirus’s mother, Danielle, shared how much the gesture meant: “It can feel really isolating and alienating, being a medical mom or a medical parent. And it’s just really nice to know that there are people who see us and want to support us beyond our family.
”The response was swift and meaningful. Following the widespread attention and our chapter’s visit, the harassment at Sirus’s bus stop stopped completely. On the morning of our visit, Sirus boarded his bus with a huge smile and a happy wave —no honking, no yelling, just peace and kindness. The connection didn’t end there.
The very next day, December 6, 2025, Sirus and his family joined us at the Colonial Chapter’s annual holiday party. Surrounded by PVA members, veterans, families, and friends, Sirus was welcomed as true family. He laughed, enjoyed the festivities, and soaked in the warmth of a community that sees him for who he is—a brave, joyful, and resilient young person who deserves respect, dignity, and belonging.
At the Colonial Chapter, we serve veterans living with spinal cord injuries and diseases such as multiple sclerosis, ALS, and spinal muscular atrophy—but our commitment to advocacy, accessibility, and respect extends to the entire disability community. While Sirus is not a veteran, he is absolutely one of us in spirit: courageous, full of light, and an inspiration to everyone who meets him.
To Sirus Miklos—our newest honorary member:
You are seen. You are valued. You are loved. Your strength lifts us all, and we are honored to call you part of our PVA family. Keep shining bright, young man—we will always have your back.
To our members, supporters, and readers:
Stories like this are why we do what we do. Whether through peer support, adaptive sports, legislative advocacy, or simply showing up when someone needs us, every act of solidarity makes a difference. Let’s keep working together to create a world that greets people with patience, kindness, and open arms.
DC UPDATE - PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA
PVA TESTIFIES ON PENDING LEGISLATION AT HOUSE HEARING
On January 21, PVA testified at a House Veterans’ Affairs, Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity hearing to examine 10 veterans-related pieces of legislation. Most of the bills addressed transition, housing, or homeless veterans programs. PVA Associate Legislative Director Julie Howell testified at the hearing.
In her oral statement, Ms. Howell focused on three bills that would have the greatest impact on our members.
The first was H.R. 7083, the Cruise Act, which aims to improve the process for reimbursement payments for VA’s Automobile Adaptive Equipment program. This legislation would centralize payments to ensure that dealerships that complete the necessary vehicle adaptations are paid in a timely manner. Industry professionals testifying at the hearing told lawmakers that currently there are more than $10 million in outstanding reimbursements owed from the VA to businesses.
The second bill Ms. Howell addressed was H.R. 982, the Warriors to Workforce Act, which would increase the amount of housing payments made to veterans using their Post-9/11 GI Bill for apprenticeship programs. The Military Housing Allowance (MHA) offered to student veterans pursuing an apprenticeship is tiered: the first six months receives 100 percent of the MHA rate, the second six-months is paid at 80 percent, the third-six months is paid at 60 percent, and the last six months is paid at 40 percent. The Warriors to Workforce Act would authorize the second six-month window to be paid at 90 percent instead of 80 percent. PVA and others pointed out that this would create a financial hardship during the third six-month window where a veteran would go from receiving 90 percent of the MHA rate to 60 percent. Ms. Howell suggested amending the language of the bill to authorize the full MHA rate for any veteran deciding to use apprenticeship programs and other on the job training opportunities for the full two years of a program.
The third bill Ms. Howell discussed was H.R. 2878, the Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Labert Improving Service-member Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act. This legislation would authorize the VA to share more information around mental health services and suicide prevention programs through the VA Solid Start program. The VA is required to conduct outreach to newly transitioned veterans to improve their access to VA health care and benefits. PVA supports providing additional information around suicide prevention to new veterans.
HVAC ASSESSES VA’S COMMUNITY CARE NETWORK
On January 22, the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee (HVAC) held a full committee hearing titled, “Community Care Network Next Generation: One Trillion Dollars of Oversight.” Richard Topping, VA’s Chief Financial Officer, described this contract as being more flexible and responsive to veterans’ changing health care needs than previous contracts. He also highlighted updates to language governing quality of delivery and contract oversight, which VA says will improve their ability to identify and remediate poor performance.
This contract is currently open to proposals, which restricted VA’s ability to provide more specifics during the hearing. Therefore, questions from committee members focused generally on the amount of taxpayer dollars being committed to the contract, transparency of VA on the performance of the contract, and concerns that high referrals of care into the community would undercut core Veterans Health Administration capabilities and result in inferior care to veterans.
Transform Lives - Help Build Brighter Futures With Your Donation
Support Our Veterans with a One-Time or Monthly Gift and Receive a T Shirt as a Thank You
Your one-time or monthly contribution will not only make a difference in the lives of seriously injured veterans but also earn you a special tumbler as a token of our appreciation. This tumbler serves as a reminder of the vital impact you're having in empowering veterans and helping them reclaim their independence.
Since 1968, Colonial PVA Has Been Making a Difference
At Colonial PVA, we provide personalized, free programs that support veterans in their journey to live fully and independently. We help them regain what they fought for— freedom and self-sufficiency—in a world that offers few solutions to the immense challenges they face.
Founded in 1968, Colonial PVA is a proud member of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization chartered by Congress in 1947. Our mission is to promote the health, well-being, and independence of our members and the disabled community through education, medical research, therapy (physical, psychological, and recreational), and advocacy for barrier-free access.
Together, we can make a real difference. Thank you for being part of our mission to improve lives and restore hope.
Shirt Size
Holiday Party - 12/06/2025
Perryville American Legion, MD
The Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America held its annual holiday party on December 6, 2025, at the American Legion Susquehanna Post 135 in Perryville, Maryland, bringing together members, families, caregivers, and supporters for a joyous evening of celebration. The event featured a delicious dinner, festive entertainment, gift exchanges, and plenty of holiday cheer, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that highlighted the strong sense of community within the chapter. A special highlight was the introduction and warm welcome of the chapter's newest honorary member, Sirus, who joined in the festivities and even assisted with the evening's activities, adding an extra touch of heartwarming connection. Photos from the night captured smiling faces, shared laughter, and the unbreakable bonds among attendees, serving as a wonderful reminder of the camaraderie and support that define the Colonial Chapter. This gathering provided a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the year's accomplishments while embracing the holiday spirit and looking forward to continued advocacy and empowerment for veterans living with spinal cord injuries and diseases in the coming year.
VA to invest all-time high of nearly 5 Billion Dollars to improve health care infrastructure
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced its largest single-year investment ever, allocating $4.8 billion for fiscal year 2026 to the Non-Recurring Maintenance (NRM) program. This record funding will repair, upgrade, and modernize VA medical centers and clinics nationwide, improving safety, accessibility, and the quality of care for Veterans, including those with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities.
The $4.8 billion includes:$2.8 billion to fix critical infrastructure, such as roofs, structural issues, and accessibility features:
$1 billion to advance the VA’s electronic health record system. $1 billion for major systems upgrades, including elevators, electrical, HVAC, and fire safety improvements.
These enhancements will create better environments for specialized care and reduce barriers for Veterans who depend on VA services.VA Secretary Doug Collins highlighted the initiative’s importance, noting that modernized facilities are essential to delivering the timely, high-quality care Veterans have earned.
MEMBER REIMBURSEMENT
All chapter members will be entitled to $100.00 per fiscal year to use towards activities such as dining out with your spouse, going to the movies, attending events, hotel stays, vacation expenses, hobby supplies, etc. Receipts for such activities will need to be dated and mailed to the Colonial Chapter office (700 Barksdale Rd, Suite 2, Newark, DE 19711) by the end of the fiscal year (09/30/2026). Receipts dated before 10/01/2025 will not be accepted. For more information, please contact the chapter office at 302-861-6671.
UPCOMING BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS
The Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America meets every 2nd Wednesday of the month in person or via Microsoft Teams. Social Hour is from 09:50 a.m. - 10:50 a.m. with the meeting starting at 11:00 a.m. sharp. Upcoming meeting dates are: March 11th, 2026; April 8th, 2026, July 8th, 2026, August 12th, 2026.
Colonial Chapter Spotlights Mobility Works' Dedication to Accessibility!
In the spirit of empowering our paralyzed veterans with greater independence and mobility, the Colonial Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) proudly recognizes Mobility Works of Bear, Delaware, for their exceptional partnership in our Delaware Accessibility Needs Grant program. This vital initiative helps remove accessibility barriers so our members can live more freely and confidently in their homes and communities. We extend heartfelt thanks to John Garden and Robert Jones for their outstanding hard work, professionalism, and unwavering dedication. Their recent contributions have directly transformed lives: they expertly installed two stairlifts to provide safe, effortless access between home levels so a family member can leave the home for appointments after a very long time and delivered a Pride Go-Go Sport 3-Wheel Scooter—a highly reliable, compact mobility solution for a resident with MS.
John and Robert's attention to detail, timely execution, and genuine care for our veteran community have been exceptional. Their efforts go far beyond technical installations—they reflect deep compassion and a shared commitment to restoring dignity, freedom, and self-reliance for those who have served our nation.
Mobility Works continues to exemplify excellence in adaptive equipment solutions, making our grant program more impactful with every collaboration. Thanks to dedicated partners like John and Robert, more of our heroes are overcoming obstacles and reclaiming their independence.
We look forward to future opportunities to work together and uplift our veterans. For information on our accessibility grants or how to apply, please visit our chapter resources or reach out to us today!
VETERAN DEALS
SAVE UP TO 40% OFF
Go to:
www.greatwolf.com/deals/heroes, scroll down the page, select the location you want to visit. Next page login with your ID.ME credentials and enjoy some fun time with your family.
Outback Steakhouse Offers 10% All Day Every Day!
We celebrate all military veterans and service members, police, firefighters, first responders, nurses, doctors and medical staff with 10% off* their entire check all day, every day (with valid medical, state or federal service ID).
Community Heroes Get a Discount
Valvoline Instant Oil Change honors your service with their service. Show your Military ID and get 15% off at your neighborhood Valvoline Instant Oil Change.
