Three Inspiring Paralyzed Individuals Awarded Lifetime Grants from Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation
The Socrates Award recognizes individuals who have overcome disability with annual grant
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Christopher Brennan
Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation
847-372-7429
cjb1133@gmail.com
CHICAGO – January 14, 2026 – Each year, an estimated 17,000 Americans survive a spinal cord injury, often facing first-year medical costs exceeding $500,000. To help ease this burden, the Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation awards the Socrates Award, a lifetime cash grant supporting individuals living with paralysis.
The grant provides financial assistance for therapy, medical equipment, prescriptions, and in-home care. In 2026, three individuals were selected for their resilience, achievements, and commitment to recovery:
- RaeAnne Lindsay (34): Ms. Wheelchair USA 2024–2025, licensed social worker, and national disability advocate living with Transverse Myelitis.
- Andrea Ritchie (19): Award-winning wheelchair racer and IHSA All-State athlete, recognized for her perseverance and athletic excellence following a childhood spinal cord injury.
- Abby Weiss (32): Paralyzed from the neck down following a 2021 acroyoga injury, Abby continues intensive rehabilitation and inspires fellow patients through her determination and positive outlook.
Founded in 2018, the Socrates Award honors individuals living with paralysis who exemplify the creed “mens sana in corpore sano” which translates to “Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body.” Each 2026 recipient will receive a $1,000 grant and be recognized at the Foundation’s Annual Board Meeting in early March 2026.
About
The Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation The Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation is a 501c3 charitable foundation located in Lake Forest, Illinois. The Foundation is committed to helping individuals, who have suffered cervical spinal injuries causing physical and cognitive disabilities, and their families and communities, by providing financial resources to help ensure a continuum of rehabilitation resources and provide opportunities for individuals to ultimately reach optimal health and independence. Please visit www.brennanrehabfoundation.org to learn more about donation opportunities and future fundraising events.
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2025 Socrates Award Grants Announced
Posted: January 15, 2026 by Chris Brennan
Three Inspiring Paralyzed Individuals Awarded Lifetime Grants from Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation
The Socrates Award recognizes individuals who have overcome disability with annual grant
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Christopher Brennan
Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation
847-372-7429
cjb1133@gmail.com
CHICAGO – January 14, 2026 – Each year, an estimated 17,000 Americans survive a spinal cord injury, often facing first-year medical costs exceeding $500,000. To help ease this burden, the Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation awards the Socrates Award, a lifetime cash grant supporting individuals living with paralysis.
The grant provides financial assistance for therapy, medical equipment, prescriptions, and in-home care. In 2026, three individuals were selected for their resilience, achievements, and commitment to recovery:
Founded in 2018, the Socrates Award honors individuals living with paralysis who exemplify the creed “mens sana in corpore sano” which translates to “Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body.” Each 2026 recipient will receive a $1,000 grant and be recognized at the Foundation’s Annual Board Meeting in early March 2026.
About
The Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation The Brennan Rehabilitation Foundation is a 501c3 charitable foundation located in Lake Forest, Illinois. The Foundation is committed to helping individuals, who have suffered cervical spinal injuries causing physical and cognitive disabilities, and their families and communities, by providing financial resources to help ensure a continuum of rehabilitation resources and provide opportunities for individuals to ultimately reach optimal health and independence. Please visit www.brennanrehabfoundation.org to learn more about donation opportunities and future fundraising events.
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Category: News