Chapter President's Report
Dear Colonial Chapter Members,
On behalf of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, Colonial Chapter, I would like to give a heartfelt THANK YOU to our members and volunteers for being an essential part of our chapter family. Our Chapter continues to lead in strengthening our community's foundation. As a mission-driven, charitable organization, we are dedicated to supporting our members and the disabled community through healthy living, philanthropy, and volunteerism. These focus areas reflect our commitment to our mission: to put principles into practice through programs that foster a healthy community.
We are fortunate to enjoy camaraderie throughout the year, thanks to initiatives like our Sports and Recreation Program and the Chapter clubs. Our Women Veterans Program and MS Program have also played vital roles in bringing our members together.
Annually, our Chapter serves 231 members, prioritizing inclusion and encouraging everyone to explore the diverse programs we offer—free for the entire family. Our goal is to help every member reach their fullest potential, and it is my responsibility to ensure that happens.
In 2024, we hosted events that reached 634 participants, extending our programs to other PVA Chapters, the disabled community, volunteers, and more. These accomplishments and partnerships have strengthened our impact. As we look ahead to 2025, the Chapter is renewing its commitment to fostering an inclusive world where everyone can realize their potential.
I encourage you to stay connected with us—whether in person at our office, online, or through social media. Thank you for being a valued member of the Colonial family.
Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season.
Respectfully,
Matt Matthew C. Peeling President & National Director
Paralyzed Veterans of America, Colonial Chapter
Executive Director's Report
Cheers to 2025!
Can you believe it's already 2025? Time flew by, and as we bid farewell to 2024, we reflect on the abundance and challenges it brought. Despite the hurdles in fundraising, we remained committed to our mission and worked tirelessly to meet your needs. Thank you for trusting us to serve you.
As we step into this new year, we embrace the opportunities ahead. It's a chance to leave the past behind and focus on a brighter future.
Let’s not be distracted. As we strive to achieve our Chapter goals, let’s stay true to our mission and maintain our unwavering determination. Together, we can build a better future for our members.
Remember, the success of this year will largely depend on what we put into it. As Jeff Bezos wisely said, “When the world changes around you, you have to lean into that and figure out what to do because complaining isn't a strategy.” The chapter office team is constantly evolving in our current economy to keep working for the mission.
My team and I are excited to continue serving you in 2025. We’re committed to providing innovative, relevant programs through our strategic partnerships in the community to benefit the Colonial Chapter Family and the wider disabled community.
In the spirit of the 14th Dalai Lama, who reminds us that the purpose of life is happiness, I wish you a joyful and healthy 2025.
Warm regards,
JoAnn Bedsworth Executive Director Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America
BIRTHDAYS
OCTOBERNOVEMBERDECEMBER
Gerard Reilly 10/02
Gilbert Hendricks 10/02
Cynthia Marco 10/04
Ricky Sykes 10/05
Angelia Anderson 10/07
Steven Yaros 10/07
John Silivanch 10/11
Shannon Falls 10/14
Barton Kessler 10/14
Roddy Devoid 10/20
Christopher Skoczylas 10/21
Richard Kleinen 10/30
Phillip Ahn 11/01
Russell Collins 11/01
Joseph Duffy 11/01
Frank Buchanan 11/03
Thomas Hawkins 11/03
Daniel Little 11/03
Barbara Shultz 11/03
John Vantrease 11/03
Anthony Lombardo 11/05
Lawrence Goldman 11/07
William Miller 11/09
Paul Stewart 11/09
Adam Worch 11/12
John Balliet 11/15
Michael DeStasio 11/17
Peter Echeverria 11/19
Charles Roe 11/20
Craig Carpenter 11/21
Marc Mest 11/21
Norman Fields 11/24
David Huffman 11/24
Jerome Adams 11/28
Mark Christie 11/28
Daniel Greenburg 12/09
Karen Miller 12/12
Richard Myers 12/14
Charmaine Jackson 12/16
Craig Ward 12/17
Noland Watts 12/24
Mark Bieberich 12/25
Lorenzo Young 12/25
Thomas Clinton 12/26
Terry Deputy 12/27
Wayne Wilson - 10/12/2024
Joseph Osowski - 10/12/2024
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.
Colonial PVA Programs
OPEN TO EVERYONE
Colonial Creators
Colonial Creators provides opportunities to connect and encourages participants by sharing and exploring creativity. They foster growth and the difference and perspectives, helping each other experience different creative arts. All supplies and events are provided by the Colonial Chapter. Meetings are the 3rd Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm EST on Teams
Gearhead Club
The Colonial Chapter's Gearhead Club meets monthly to discuss anything with a motor and currently in the beginning stages of restoring a Ford Fairlane. They are planning to attend some car shows and races in the future. Meetings are held on Teams the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm EST. Come by and enjoy the fellowship.
Outdoor Adventure Club
Are you an outdoor enthusiast? Enjoy the great outdoors with your Colonial family! Do you enjoy fishing, hunting, sailing, rock climbing, skiing, camping and more, then this is the group for you! The club meets every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm EST on Teams. They are planning some fishing and boating during the summer.
October 11th ‐ 13th 2024
Ocean City, MD
Ocean City, MD Awards Dinner
2024 Kimberly Reese Award
This year the Colonial Chapter had 2 winners for the Kimberly Reese Award, which was created to recognize the important work done every day by the people who take care of our members. These are the people who passionately serve our members, by restoring hope and quality of life. The Colonial Family would like to celebrate, and congradulate the 2024 Kimberly Reese Award winners, Daniel Small and La Shon Thomas. You are both amazing care givers with a heart of gold!
Joseph L Singleton Spirit Award
The Joseph L. Singleton award represents the highest honor best Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America. This award is not an represents a lifetime achievement. It recognizes outstanding co ideals such as determination, compassion, perseverance, dedicat recipient is a beacon, radiating their spirit throughout the Co extends beyond the organization, leaving a lasting impression.
This year, the winner of this prestigious award was Colonial Ch Secretary and MS Liason, Jerrod Harris. Numerous nominations ca reach out to Joesph Singleton's friend, Rene' Aguilara who was the Chapter staff placed him with Jerrod at the awards dinner s other. Rene' was prepared for the event with a speech about Jo the most memerable award of the evening on October 11th, 2024.
October 11-13 2024
Ocean City, MD
Rock Painting
October 11-13
Ocean City, MD
Boardwalk Scavenger Hunt
Paralyzed Veterans of America Issues Statement in Response to DOT's Unprecedented Fine Against American Airlines
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 23, 2024) – Paralyzed Veterans of America Chief Executive Officer Carl Blake released a statement following the Department of Transportation’s historic penalty against American Airlines for its unsafe and undignified treatment of passengers with disabilities who use mobility devices. DOT’s investigation involved review of complaints, including three sets of complaints formally filed by PVA.
“We are pleased to see DOT making such a strong statement for how it will hold airlines accountable for jeopardizing the well-being of passengers with disabilities, particularly wheelchair and scooter users. We are confident this unprecedented enforcement will make it clear to the entire airline industry that passengers with mobility disabilities deserve to travel with the same level of safety and dignity as everyone else.”
Blake continued, “Our nation’s veterans with catastrophic injuries and diseases, such as MS and ALS, are especially deserving of this historic action taken by DOT. PVA appreciates everyone who reported their negative and inappropriate airline experiences and encourages all travelers with disabilities to continue utilizing their voice when violations and inhumane treatment occur. Their voices matter and need to be heard as that is one of the most important ways that real change can take place.”
PVA Annual Healthcare Summit + Expo
Colonial Member and MS Liason, Jerrod Harris attended this summit event in Anaheim, California. This event has been running for 10 years and is becoming more recognized across the world of not only Veterans suffering from Spinal Cord Injury but Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Paralyzed Veterans of America kicked off its 2024 Healthcare Summit and Expo – a comprehensive four-day conference comprised of the latest research, science, and technology for the brightest clinicians in the field of spinal cord injury and disease. More than 330 attendees from nearly 100 acute care and rehabilitation hospitals and community care centers nationwide convened to network and collaborate. The event features more than 105 speakers, including an update from Department of Veterans Affairs’ Under Secretary for Health Dr. Shereef Elnahal, as well as 60 exhibitors and nearly 70 breakout sessions. The Summit also includes PVA’s Clinical Excellence Awards, presented to six clinicians across the U.S. for their outstanding commitment to the care of veterans and others living with SCI/D.
“Healthcare is constantly evolving, and it is essential for the clinicians who care for our most catastrophically injured veterans to have a streamlined, reliable way to receive the latest in spinal cord injury and disease research, technology, and best practices,” said Robert Thomas, national president of PVA. “PVA takes immense pride in hosting the Summit each year as a way to invest in our healthcare workers and renew our commitment to advocating for the highest quality care for those with paralysis and diseases, like MS and ALS. We are grateful for our sponsors who share the same commitment and make this event possible.”
While there are variances in the data, approximately 305,000 people live with spinal cord injuries in the U.S., with about 18,000 new injuries occurring each year. Roughly 42,000 people with SCI are veterans, with nearly 28,000 receiving care from the VA. Additionally, more than 22,000 veterans with MS regularly receive care from the VA, and more than 1,000 veterans are newly diagnosed with ALS each year. Now in its twelfth year, the Summit is designed to help these veterans and their dedicated clinicians advance patient care, improve quality of life, and maximize independence.
2024 Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat Attended by Jennifer Small
Paralyzed Veterans of America – the nation’s premier nonprofit of choice for disabled veterans, their families, and caregivers – wrapped up its 2024 Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat in Long Beach, California today. The three-day event engaged, supported, and uplifted female veterans with spinal cord injuries and diseases, like MS and ALS, from 24 PVA Chapters across the United States.
This year, 35 women veterans participated in advocacy and leadership workshops, as well as group activities tailored to address the unique challenges they face daily. A key highlight of the Retreat was the viewing of PVA’s newly released public service announcement, Women First. The PSA prominently features U.S. Air Force Veteran/PVA National Senior Vice President Tammy Jones and U.S. Army Veteran/PVA National Vice President Anne Robinson – who founded PVA’s Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat – as well as renowned sports anchor Hannah Storm. Together, the trio paint a stark contrast between the difference in medical care for able-bodied women and women with disabilities.
“Women veterans form a vital and distinct community,” stated Jones. “PVA’s Empowerment Retreat is an extension of that community and provides them with essential tools they need for success. It also underscores the importance of supporting each other as we navigate the everyday ups and downs of being a woman veteran.”
Both Jones and Robinson brought their personal stories to the forefront in the latest PSA, emphasizing that women veterans with disabilities encounter countless barriers in accessing medical care. From patient rooms and weight scales to medical facilities and staff training, inaccessibility at every healthcare touchpoint matters and can make the difference between life and death. Their involvement in PVA’s Women First campaign aims to raise awareness of these issues, making it a fitting complement to this year’s Retreat, which focused on leadership development and resilience.
The 2024 Retreat not only included empowerment sessions, but also included activities like morning yoga, meditation, and a 1940s-themed party highlighting the importance of physical and emotional well-being. This year’s all-expense-paid Retreat took place from October 5 – 8 and was generously sponsored by First Nation Group, Siebert Williams Shank Foundation, and TriWest Healthcare Alliance.
To learn more about PVA’s Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat, the unique challenges women veterans with disabilities face, and how PVA is amplifying their voices, visit PVA.org/WomenVeterans.
Fish Redeemer Retreat
August 26 - 29th 2024
At the end of August, our Outdoor Adventure Club had their retreat at Taylor's Cove in Dameron, Maryland. This wonderful place is exclusive to the disabled community and the home is fully accessible, making it a magical place to relax, enjoy nature and be together promoting a better quality of life. Also, Taylor's Cove has a small campground on the property that has a great firepit, tent and small camping sites. We a couple new faces signed up and had an adventure they will never forget.
The group also booked the famous FIsh Redeemer boat for 2 days of fishing. This boat was custom made and is fully accessible so members can fish out in the Chesapeake Bay with ease. Crew is always accomodating, professional and fun! As availability is limted, next year you can sign up to go and enjoy some mental therapy plus relax with your fellow Colonial PVA Family.
MS CORNER
By Jerrod Harris
A word that has infinite meanings. My MS journey began in 2008 with me going legally blind and having overwhelming balance issues. I say that year because, that was the year that I was diagnosed. But more importantly, that was the year that I experienced a different kind of “fear". A feeling like I had never known before and would unfortunately need to learn to live with. When the doctor told me of my diagnosis, the "fear" didn’t instantly set in but it didn’t take long before it did. I have experienced many trials in life (PCS’ing, deployment, fatherhood, being a husband and sole provider) and each new chapter has brought and continues to bring some level of “fear" with it. But nothing had prepared me for the “fear” I was about to experience with MS.
While doing my due diligence and trying to learn all I could about MS and what I was to expect, I noticed that I wasn’t myself. I wasn’t able to sleep well (it was different from the PTSD sleep), I wasn’t able to focus, and I wasn’t able to enjoy things the way I had before. Like most people with MS, you’re usually not sure what is MS related or just life related. But no matter what the cause, I knew something was off. Then crept in the “worry monsters”, who I was far too familiar with and they seemed to show up at every new and upcoming event in my life. But this time was different! They were bigger, louder, and more intrusive in my head than ever before. I didn’t know how to handle them or if I was even strong enough to handle them. No one could see or hear them on the outside except me, but believe me they were there on the inside fighting hard to get out. I didn’t know who to turn to, so I finally decided to share what was going on in my head with my therapist.
I was so afraid of being diagnosed with a mental disorder but I didn’t know what else to do. She told me it seemed like I was experiencing “fear" and all the secondary feelings and emotions that come along with it. The most comforting thing that she said was, “It has always been there and you have always dealt with it.” These words were so encouraging to me, because it made me reflect on all the times “fear” showed up in my life and I confronted it, lived with it, and life went on. My MS journey and its “fear” is another chance for me to rise to the occasion. Not to defeat the “fear”, but to understand and acknowledge that we can co-exist. I now take the opportunity to acknowledge “fear” and its “worry monsters” when it surfaces. It no longer controls me but we’re now more like cordial coworkers.
Jerrod Harris
UNDERSTANDING & IMPROVING YOUR WHEELCHAIR LIFE
By: Paul Stewart
Accessibility in Hotels: Understanding and Improving the Experience
Have you ever wondered why accessible rooms are often scattered across different floors of a hotel? Or why they tend to be located near exit doors at the end of hallways? Why aren't all accessible rooms the same? The setup and location of accessible rooms can vary significantly from one hotel to another, influenced by factors such as the building's design, size, and location.
In multi-story hotels, accessible rooms may be spread across several floors, while in smaller, oneor two-floor hotels, these rooms are often located on the ground level. Larger hotels, which often house amenities like restaurants, offices, conference rooms, gyms, pools, and maintenance facilities on the lower floors, may place accessible rooms starting on the second or third floors. This arrangement is sometimes due to the higher ceiling heights found on the ground level.
People with Disabilities: Diverse Preferences
We all have unique preferences, and this includes individuals with disabilities. Just because someone has a disability doesn’t mean they want a different experience from others. Some may prefer rooms on lower floors for ease of access, while others might enjoy higher floors to take in the views. Everyone wants to enjoy the sights, and it’s important that accessible rooms accommodate this desire. Unfortunately, hotels may not always be able to accommodate such preferences, even when requested during booking. However, it’s still worth asking, as some hotels will try to fulfill such requests when possible.
Regulations and Design Standards
When it comes to designing accessible hotel rooms, government guidelines provide a baseline, but it’s up to corporations to interpret and implement these standards. Some hotels go beyond the minimum requirements, though this is not always the case. By providing feedback and sharing your experiences with hotel management, you can help influence change and encourage a more inclusive approach to hotel design.
When communicating with hotel managers, it’s helpful to maintain a positive tone. Complimenting aspects of the hotel you appreciate can make your suggestions more constructive. If staying at a chain hotel (e.g., Choice Hotels, Bonvoy, or Hilton), it’s important to not only share your concerns locally but also escalate them to the corporate level. Many insights can be gained through conversations with hotel managers, and doing some research afterward can help clarify the reasoning behind certain practices.
Understanding Accessibility Standards
vThere are two main accessibility standards for hotels under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): the 1991 standard and the 2010 standard. The version a hotel must adhere to depends on when the hotel was built and whether any alterations have been made to its accessible rooms. To learn more about these differences, websites like wheelchairtravel.org offer useful information on ADA design requirements for hotels.
Accessible rooms come in a variety of configurations to meet the needs of different guests, including those who use wheelchairs, those with hearing or vision impairments, and those who require specific bathroom setups, such as roll-in showers or tubs. When booking a room, it’s essential to be clear about your needs. For example, if you need a shower chair, it’s a good idea to bring your own, as not all hotels may provide them. If the hotel does offer one, make sure it’s sturdy, properly fitted, and free of any sharp edges. If you are prone to skin breakdowns, consider bringing extra padding or a cushion to ensure comfort and safety.
The Role of Guests in Shaping Accessibility
Hotels are required to meet minimum accessibility standards, but there’s always room for improvement. By providing feedback to hotel managers, owners, or even corporate offices, you can help push for better accommodations. At the same time, understanding why certain decisions are made can offer insight into the challenges hotels face in meeting accessibility needs.
Hotel reviews are another powerful tool for sharing your experiences and encouraging positive change. If you encounter a hotel that only meets the minimum accessibility requirements, consider highlighting any efforts the hotel made to exceed expectations. Conversely, if you find a hotel that goes above and beyond, make sure to commend their efforts. Your feedback helps create a more inclusive and accessible experience for everyone.
Gearhead Club Update
After our last newsletter update, the Colonial Chapter Gearhead club began restoration of their 1962 Ford Fairlane 500 in Swedesboro, NJ on September 7th 2024 with the help of Joseph Blum and his co-workers at Atlantic Valve Services. The car had all unncessary items removed from the car and the original floor pans were cut out. This was a great time for the club as progress was made.
At the Gallen Getway in October, the Gearhead Club placed their car in the Ocean City Maryland Convention Center during the "End of Summer Cruisin" event from October 10th & 11th 2024 to show off the car, answer questions and raise money for their project. A lot of attention and praise was brought to our organization for allowing our members to take on this car. The group will be planning more time with the car after the upcoming holidays to make the dream of a Police Car come to life.
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 (09/30/2025). Receipts dated before 10/01/2024 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: November 13th 2024; January 8th 2025; February 12th, 2025. There is no meeting in December but it will resume on January 8th!
CUSTOM APPAREL
The chapter is doing custom apparel now. No minimum quantity, high quality. T-Shirts, Polos, Hoodies, Sweatshirts, Bookbags and more.
Made by Veterans to Support Veterans here at the Chapter. Tell you family and friends to call the office at (302) 861-6671 and place there orders.
Money raised supports the Colonial PVA Programs!
VETERAN DEALS
As many members love Cabela's, did you know that they offer active Military and Veterans a 10% off discount. Just inform your cashier of your military status then show your card to receive this "Legendary Salute" discount. This discount also includes Law Enforcement, Fire Fighters and Wildlife Agents, so tell your friends as this is a year-round discount.
DEAL ALERT
GALLEN GETAWAY 2025
11/22/2025 - 11/30/2025
Port Liberty NY to the Bahamas
Embark on a journey of a lifetime around Thanksgiving with your PVA family on Norwegian Cruiselines Breakaway Ship for 8 Days from Port Liberty NY to the Bahamas. Registration begins April 1st, 2025 and will require a valid passport and doctor's letter of clearance to take the cruise. Cruise is for Colonial Members and their caregiver to enjoy time away from the cold for a magical time. More information is available by calling the Colonial Chapter's office at 302-861-6671.
Registration Begins 04/01/2025 Limited
