12. WEBINAR - Improving quality of life for people with Spinal Cord Injury – the work of Stoke Mandeville Spinal Research - 13th March 2025

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is not only a life-changing event but also comes with a range of potential medical and psychological challenges. These can include bladder and bowel dysfunction, chronic pain, and an increased risk of pressure ulcers, all of which can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected. Stoke Mandeville Spinal Research (SMSR) is a dedicated charity focused on funding innovative research to address these complications and enhance the well-being of individuals living with SCI.

This webinar will provide an insightful introduction to the vital work of SMSR, shedding light on their groundbreaking initiatives and commitment to improving the lives of those with spinal cord injuries. Join CMSUK to learn more about SMSR'S mission and the positive impact they are making.

Presentation Aims:

• Enhance understanding of quality-of-life issues in Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) from both clinical and personal perspectives.
• Highlight the work of Stoke Mandeville Spinal Research (SMSR) in addressing and alleviating these challenges.
• Share a personal perspective on living with SCI complications and the transformative impact research can have.

What Will Attendees Learn?

• A deeper awareness of the quality-of-life challenges faced by individuals with SCI, presented from clinical and personal viewpoints.
• Insight into the groundbreaking work of SMSR in improving the lives of people with SCI.
• A first-hand account of living with SCI-related complications and the role research plays in creating meaningful change.

How Will Attendees Benefit from the Webinar?

• Gain valuable knowledge about the multi-faceted impact of SCI on quality of life.
• Learn about innovative research efforts aimed at alleviating these complications.
• Understand the real-world difference research can make through a personal narrative.

Who is the Webinar For?

• Professionals working in case management, rehabilitation, and related fields who support individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries.
• Anyone passionate and interested in innovative research and approaches to improving quality of life for people living with SCI.
• Healthcare providers, therapists, and those involved in the care and well-being of individuals with SCI.

Meet the Presenters

Derek Cutler plays a pivotal role at SMSR, overseeing the charity’s research grants program and managing overall operations. With a strong background in healthcare and research, Derek previously worked at Imperial College London and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). There, he project-managed international research and policy initiatives focused on ensuring value for money in healthcare spending.

Derek holds an MSc in International Development from Birkbeck, University of London, bringing a wealth of expertise and a global perspective to his work at SMSR.

Hi, I’m Kat Panagaki, and I’m a C5 tetraplegic. My life took a dramatic turn on 28th March 2014, when I was involved in a car accident while taking a taxi from the airport in Greece - the driver crashed into a tree. I spent two years in the hospital recovering, and now I live in London with a live-in personal assistant and my fiancé, Chad.

Since joining the disabled community, I’ve experienced how differently people treat you, but I’ve also discovered my passion for blogging and photography. My mission is to show the world that disability doesn’t stop you from living a full and adventurous life. It’s about overcoming the challenges life throws at us and thriving despite them. The accident shaped me into a strong, “independent” woman, and I found the love of my life afterward - proof that love doesn’t look at disabilities. Today, I’m happier than ever.

Of course, living with neuropathic pain is a daily struggle, but that’s why charities like Stoke Mandeville Spinal Research are so crucial. Their efforts to find solutions to challenges like neuropathic pain offer hope for a better future. I believe the day will come when we understand this pain fully, and it will transform our lives even further.

“Love yourself for who you are! Disability won’t stop us.”

You can learn more about me and my journey by following my pages:

• Facebook: Punkaplegic
• Instagram: @Katherine_miz

If you have any questions or queries please email us info@cmsuk.org or call 01329 446959.