Make Your Body Smile
immun POWER WITH MAGNESIUM + VITAMIN D
*Magnesium contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue and Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system.
We indicate the importance of a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
Imprint
Wings for Life International Spinal Cord Research Foundation
Fürstenallee 4, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
Phone: +43-662-6582-4244
Email: office@wingsforlife.com
Company Registration: FN 251592p
Legal Form:
Private non-profit foundation
Register Court: Landesgericht Salzburg (Jurisdiction)
Chief Executive Officer: Anita Gerhardter
Wings for Life United Kingdom: Seven Dials Warehouse 42–56 Earlham Street London WC2H 9LA
Great Britain
UK Registered Charity No: 1138804
Wings for Life USA: Spinal Cord Research Foundation Inc.
1630 Stewart Street, Santa Monica, 90404, CA 501 c3 Charity
Editors: Christina Herbst, Stefanie Schwarz
Contributors: Markus Böttinger, Madeleine Blowing, Lara Goritschnig, Liv Haddow, Hetty Haines, Emma Hind, Verena May, Brandon Peters, Beatrice Sandner
CEOs Red Bull Media House
Publishing:
Dietmar Otti, Christopher Reindl, Marcus Weber
General Manager Red Bull Media House Publishing: Stefan Ebner
Head of Co-Publishing: Katrin Sigl
Art Director: Silvia Druml-Shams
Photo Editor: Eva Kerschbaum
Project management: Jennifer Silberschneider
Lithography: Clemens Ragotzky
Translation: Manfred Thurner
Producer: Sabine Wessig
Printer: Offset 5020 Druckerei & Verlag Ges.m.b.H., Bayernstraße 27, 5072 Siezenheim, Austria
Acknowledgement: We would like to express our gratitude to Red Bull Media House for producing this magazine free of charge and Offset 5020 for donating the paper.
Dear friends and supporters,
This year marks a very special milestone for us – and we would like to share it with you. The Wings for Life Foundation was founded 20 years ago with a vision: to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. Starting on page 24, Anita Gerhardter, Heinz Kinigadner and Jan Schwab (cover) recount our founding story, full of moving moments and significant scientific advances.
Today, two decades later, our ultimate goal seems more attainable than ever. This is thanks to the tireless commitment of scientists such as Professor Michael Kilgard, who is currently paving the way for a revolutionary therapy with his clinical study on vagus nerve stimulation (from page 54).
The Wings for Life World Run is a day of hope (from page 36), especially for people like Wolfgang Illek, who has been paraplegic since 2003. We asked him and many other individuals living with a spinal cord injury what they dream about. From page 10 onwards, leading scientists in spinal cord research share exciting insights into how realistic these dreams are.
None of this would be possible without your support –thank you for your donations from the bottom of our hearts.
Enjoy your read, Your Wings for Life Team
Professor
A
We
Photos: Helge Kirchberger, Natasha Swanson, Jonathan Zizzo, Mona Lechner
Fundraising
Coverphoto: Limex Images/ Andreas Schaad
back cover: Helge Kirchberger
Events Around the World
Our ultimate ambition is to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. Every valuable donation we receive brings us one step closer to this goal.
United Kingdom
A Clay Day Is a Good Day
At the annual Wings for Life
“Clay Day”, friends and partners gathered in idyllic Oxfordshire to compete in clay pigeon shooting alongside Formula 1 stars such as David Coulthard, Daniel Ricciardo, Sergio Pérez and Christian Horner. After enyoing a lavish lunch, the guests made some serious bids in our live auction, which together with ticket sales and monetery donations resulted in a whopping £ 425,000 for spinal cord research. A huge thank you to our partner Oracle Red Bull Racing, without whom this record-breaking result wouldn’t have been possible!
Austria
Kick-off for Spinal Cord Research
Exciting matches, cheering fans, and plenty of fun: the third Birdies & Friends Soccer Cup had it all. Our friends at Birdiefy Events have once again outdone themselves. 17 teams took to the football pitch in Fuschl am See for Wings for Life and collectively raised € 125,000 for spinal cord research.
USA
Excellent Entertainment & High Hopes in La La Land
High up in the hills of Los Angeles, the return of The Cord Club LA was a success, raising over $ 505,000 for Wings for Life. Hosted by award-winning television host and disability advocate, Sophie Morgan, the gala united a remarkable community of supporters and celebrity guests to make a significant impact on the future of spinal cord injury research.
Liechtenstein
Premiere in the Principality of Liechtenstein
This year marked the first charity dinner in Liechtenstein dedicated to spinal cord research for the Wings for Life Foundation. Guests enjoyed a marvellous evening, placing bids on various exhibits, including a painting by german artist Leon Löwentraut (third from right). The evening was capped off with a donation of 484,500 Swiss Francs.
Photos: Marv Watson, Roland Korner
Matching people with Spinal Cord Injury & Clinical Trials
The SCI Trials Finder helps people to easily locate, understand and participate in clinical trials that fit their situation. And it helps scientists to find suitable patients for their trial.
Trials carefully curated
Written in common language
Easy to use and mobile optimized
Seemless contact to trial locations
Instant notification of new trials
Metadata of all trials
Proudly
Wolfgang suffered a high-level spinal cord injury during a bicycle accident.
Faces of Hope
As part of a thought experiment, we asked individuals affected by spinal cord injuries to share the first thing they would do if there was a cure. Some of the most influential minds in spinal cord research provide insights into how realistic these dreams are
Photos: Helge Kirchberger
“If my partner’s running on the beach with my dog, I still get really sad just because I can’t join in.”
Casey was injured after going over the handlebars of her mountain bike.
Professor Michael Sofroniew is a neuroscientist at the University of California and member of the Scientific Advisory Board of Wings for Life. His findings relating to the “glial scar” that forms after a spinal cord injury proved groundbreaking for the research field.
“If our efforts are successful, patients will regain motor functions, such as finger, hand, arm, and leg movement.”
“I would love to go back to work –or do things many people take for granted, like walking around.”
Dustine was working in his dream job as a police officer. He was on his way home after a long shift when he was hit by a drunk driver.
Neuroscientist Professor Aileen Anderson is head of the Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center in Irvine, USA. She is member of the Wings for Life Scientific Advisory Board and a leading authority in the field of stem cell research.
“Progress is painstaking yet unstoppable, and we’re moving in the right direction.”
“I miss the whole person I was. I miss freedom. The freedom of doing whatever I want to do, whenever I want to do it.”
Claire was injured when she collided with a tractor whilst riding her bike, training for her next triathlon.
“I can imagine that one of the next steps will be to partially restore hand function.”
Professor Jan Schwab is a neuroscientist at Ohio State University, Scientific Director of Wings for Life, and among the most renowned spinal cord injury specialists worldwide.
“One time I played with my friends on the football field, kicking the ball and that’s the last time we ever did that. I didn’t know it. But if I could do it for the last time, I’d appreciate it so much more.”
Ben was knocked off his motorbike whilst on his way back from a family day out at the seaside.
Professor Stephen Strittmatter is a neuroscientist at Yale University in Connecticut and member of the Scientific Advisory Board of Wings for Life. He has spent the last few decades working tirelessly on solving the puzzle of how to induce damaged nerves to resprout.
“The development of fundamental knowledge and its implementation in therapies for spinal cord injury patients is what we’re all about – and this is the best place to pursue it.”
Philip was paralyzed after toppling off a stepladder at home. The heavy box of tiles he was carrying fell on his neck and a shard of bone punctured his spinal cord at C5.
“I miss the simple things. Like bringing my wife a cup of tea in the morning or riding my bike.”
Professor Andrew Maas, neurosurgeon at Antwerp University Hospital, is an international pioneer in the treatment and research of central nervous system injuries (neurotrauma). He has been an integral member of the Wings for Life advisory board for many years.
“We’ll be able to expand our knowledge to treat patients much more effectively than in the past. If we are successful, patients could walk again.”
Steven was injured after falling off his bike in 2016. He’s since gone on to ride over 200 miles on a static bike, raising money for Wings for Life. His recovery was aided by a Wings for Life co funded clinical study.
“I would love for there to be a point in the future where we can say, ‘I had a spinal cord injury, but I’m better now.’”
“We have the possibility of administering certain cells and medication directly into the patient’s injured spinal cord. That is possible now. Yes, there is hope.”
Professor Armin Curt was head of the Spinal Cord Injury Centre at Balgrist University Hospital in Zurich for 30 years. He is the clinical director of Wings for Life and a long-standing member of our advisory board.
20 Years of Wings for Life
A WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE
Countless memories, stories, and special people, who have shaped us over the last 20 years
Awide-open space in Salzburg, Austria. Photos hanging on delicate threads from the wall, their movement barely perceptible. Each individual picture tells a story – and represents a leg of an unprecedented journey. The journey of Wings for Life.
Anita Gerhardter, Heinz Kinigadner, and Jan Schwab reunite for an extraordinary journey through time. As the CEO, founder, and scientific director of Wings for Life, they form the heart, soul, and brain of the foundation. They stroll through a collection of large, printed photos hanging from the ceiling – snapshots, flashes in time, memories. “I believe we all remember
the time when this photo was taken,” says Kinigadner, reaching for one of the images. It shows a young man in a hospital bed. Heinz’s son Hannes, 19 years old at the time, had suffered a high-level spinal cord injury during a fall. “I took this and other photos myself, but I can still hardly force myself to look at them.” Anita Gerhardter was a long-standing friend of the Kinigadner family even back then: “I remember it very clearly. I initially pushed it all aside. What should not be, cannot be.” She gently runs her fingers over a photo of Hannes during rehab: “This one really hurts.” Kinigadner nods. “It is almost impossible to explain what goes on inside you in such a situation, as it is utterly inconceivable
OUR ORIGIN STORY
Hannes Kinigadner suffers a severe spinal cord injury as the result of a fall. 2003 2004 2005 2006 2008
Heinz Kinigadner and Dietrich Mateschitz launch Wings for Life with the aim of making spinal cord injuries curable.
Funding of the first eleven basic research projects and implementation of an independent peer review process.
Formation of the “Scientific Advisory Board”, a committee of top international scientists that acts as a scientific advisory council.
First scientific symposium in Salzburg, Austria, at Hangar-7 attended by 33 specialists from all over the world.
Brain, heart and soul of the Wings for Life Foundation: Jan Schwab, Anita Gerhardter, and Heinz Kinigadner (from left) to anyone on the outside. It feels as if the world stops turning – a complete standstill. An incision right through life as you know it.”
The Launch of Wings for Life Dissapointingly, the attempt to find an immediate cure for Hannes ends abruptly. “There were no options back then. A clinical trial on humans, let alone any successful medication, was a long way off,” says Heinz Kinigadner. His friendship with Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz had been blossoming for years at this point. “It quickly became clear that the only way to bring about change was through a
Zhigang He facilitates the regeneration of nerve fibres by blocking the “PTEN” enzyme, which was previously considered impossible to achieve within the central nervous system. 2009 2011 2012 2014
Jan Schwab and colleagues describe the debilitating effects of spinal cord injuries on the immune system, which promote infections.
The first controlled clinical trial in which human neural stem cells are transplanted into the injured spinal cord is launched in Switzerland under the leadership of Armin Curt.
First joint Wings for Life & ISRT Summer School in London for the targeted promotion and training of young researchers.
Launch of the first Wings for Life World Run; the worldwide attention leads to a record number of 253 research applications being submitted.
Photos: Limex Images/Andreas Schaad, Wings for Life, David Robinson, Stefan Weiß, Marv Watson, private
IT CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE
The main causes for spinal cord injury are accidents in daily life:
50 % road accidents
24 % falls
3 % extreme sports
17 % other causes
6 % sport
European foundation,” adds Jan Schwab, a neuroscientist who was based in Berlin at the time. “Right from the outset, it was impressive to witness the determination of Mr Mateschitz. He was fully committed to the cause, despite the fact that it would be a long and arduous journey.” Anita’s gaze turns to a black and white photograph of Dietrich Mateschitz. “Nothing is impossible – that was his credo.” He and Heinz Kinigadner launched the Wings for Life foundation in 2004. The objective: to promote spinal cord research and find a cure for spinal cord injuries. 20 years on, and progress is evident. “We have established a highly selective, multi-stage process. Experts share their assessments with us – to an international standard – and we fund exceptional
Foundation of the Accelerated Translational Programme (ATP), led by Armin Curt, to speed up the translation of results from basic research into clinical trials on patients. 2016 2017 2018
USD 7 million in funding for the “Nogo Trap” clinical trial to improve motor function –the largest funding award to date.
Grégoire Courtine succeeds in significantly improving the walking function of three patients with incomplete chronic injuries using electrical stimulation.
projects that have the potential to improve functions in the medium term,” explains Anita Gerhardter. “We are by no means the proverbial slow-moving oil tanker, but rather operate like a speedboat. It doesn’t take us ages to get moving – quite the opposite. We are capable of implementing necessary directional changes quickly, thereby providing very effective support.”
Continuing Progress
As the three continue their round, they pause in front of the photo of renowned researcher Sam David. Heinz Kinigadner explains: “I am immensely proud that such outstanding individuals have been so instrumental in helping our cause. Sam David, for example, was the first to prove that regeneration in the spinal cord is indeed possible.
2021
Jerry Silver restores breathing in chronic paraplegia in a model in the USA.
Michael Kilgard advances vagus nerve stimulation to clinical testing; the aim is to improve hand function in high-level spinal cord injuries (more on this on page 54)
Photos: Stefan Weiß, Samo Vidic, EPFL for Wings for Life World Run, Tyler Wick, Jonathan Zizzo, Mary Rafferty, Dominik Czerny
Here we have Zhigang He, yet another pioneer. He found a switch that can re-enable nerve growth to an extent that was not thought possible.” Jan Schwab nods in agreement: “When you look patients in the eye, you realize what this hope means to them. These studies pave the way for the entire field – and Wings for Life is heavily involved. We certainly haven’t wasted time over the last 20 years. We cover basic research, translation, and clinical trials – something typically only large pharmaceutical companies can do. The entire field of research is now in motion, and we believe it is our duty to keep going full steam ahead.”
Anita Gerhardter is particularly keen to highlight the Wings for Life World Run as she reaches one of the countless photographs depict-
ing participants running for a good cause. “The idea was pitched by a Red Bull event specialist, and I was hooked right away. This concept allows us to reach thousands of people at a single stroke, generate donations, and raise awareness. We are now the world’s largest running event,” she says with evident pride. “The Wings for Life World Run has become a beacon of hope for people suffering from spinal cord injuries.” Heinz Kinigadner, who participates every year, adds: “Everyone at the World Run understands what we are running for – the cause. It’s incredibly emotional and beautiful.”
The trio looks back on the last few years with pride and optimism. “Wings for Life has made an invaluable contribution to revitalising the field of spinal cord research.
Considering how many scientists are working on this topic today, a great deal has changed and that inspires hope,” says Anita Gerhardter. She reaches for a photo of Hannes fitted with an exoskeleton ( i ).“
“My greatest wish is to see Hannes – and all others affected –stand tall without an exoskeleton. I wish to see him walk again.” Heinz Kinigadner nods, visibly moved. “I remain 100% convinced that it won’t take an eternity to happen.”
iWHAT IS AN EXOSKELETON?
An exoskeleton is a mechanical frame that acts as a support corset. Patients use it for therapeutic purposes.
Relaunch of the “SCI Trials Finder” as a platform for patients to enable a more effective conduct of clinical trials on an international level. 2022 2023 2024 of every donation goes to spinal cord research
Wings for Life funds the “NervGen” study with USD 3 million; the aim is to make the scar at the injury site more permeable for regenerating nerve fibres.
324 research projects in twenty countries funded to date; more than a quarter of a million people take part in the Wings for Life World Run for the first time.
More information on current projects is available on page 62 and at wingsforlife.com/research
Austrian photographer Helge Kirchberger capturing unique moments for the “Faces of Hope” campaign
Peeking Behind the Lens
An inside view on the Wings for Life “Faces of Hope” campaign.
On one of the hottest days of the year, in a corner of North London surrounded by city apartments nestled above a quiet stretch of Regent’s Canal, twenty people gathered from different corners of the UK and further afield to tell a collection of stories which are both identical and unique in equal measure.
Participants who gathered for the ‘Faces of Hope’ campaign all
Photo: James Robinson
One production day, but so many special people and stories to tell
span different interests, hobbies, philosophies, passions, ages, politics and more. But one thing that unites them is that they have sustained a spinal cord injury which has changed their lives forever.
Marking 20 years
This is the 20th anniversary of Wings for Life, a pivotal moment in our charity’s history which offers a chance to reflect on two decades of research into spinal cord injury. As many who have gathered are keen to express, more progress has been made in the last five years than the previous fifteen. A cure really does feel within touching distance.
To commemorate this moment, Wings for Life is launching Faces of Hope, a campaign designed to show people just what life is like
“It’s one of the most emotional shoots I’ve ever done.”
Helge Kirchberger
Helge Kirchberger and Emma Hind, CEO of Wings for Life in the UK
with a spinal cord injury – and how the research Wings for Life has helped fund is quickly transforming outcomes for patients.
The story from behind the camera
“It’s one of the most emotional shoots I’ve ever done,” explains Helge Kirchberger, a Salzburg-based photographer who has been shooting content for Red Bull for decades. “And that’s really saying something – I’ve been a photographer now for 40 years,” he adds, with emphasis. Kirchberger is on
his second shoot for the Faces of Hope campaign, having been introduced to participants in his native Austria. It was there that he was so moved by their stories, he wanted to offer his time for free. “The stories, the people. Seeing the participants express their stories with their faces and their eyes – it was very special for me.”
He was joined by Jonathan Forsthuber, videographer at Peak Motion Films, also based in Salzburg. “It’s a great cause”, mused Jonathan, as he reflected on why he also donated his time for free.
“It’s a hard time – hearing all these stories – but it’s also extremely enriching and life-affirming. We learned so much about the mission of Wings for Life and we wanted to support it.”
Unforgettable
memories
Having shot the participants in Austria and the UK, as well as interviewing the scientists who are closely linked with Wings for Life funded research, both Helge Kirchberger and Jonathan Forsthuber have been reflecting on the many shoots which they have kindly do -
Picture above: Jonathan Forsthuber (right) and Dominik Wallner (left), who ensured the best possible sound. Picture below: Snapshot of Dustine, who is part of the “Faces of Hope” campaign
nated to Wings for Life. Have any stories struck them, in particular?
“There was one gentleman. He had been celebrating the birth of his first son when he was in a car accident just two days later and he sustained his injury. He was celebrating the greatest moment of his life – and then the injury struck,” Forsthuber reflects.
Looking ahead
Meeting participants who have sustained a spinal cord injury have left a lasting impression on both Kirchberger and Forsthuber. I ask them what lessons they will be taking forward in their own lives.
“The positivity from the participants … they really delight in the small things. My problems seem so insignificant compared to what they go through on a daily basis,”
ponders Kirchberger. He adds, “I’m going to be much more focused on the present.”
Both too, are keen to express their immense gratitude to the participants. Jonathan Forsthuber explains, “I couldn’t imagine how hard it is to talk about this special day and the hard times they have faced. Thank you for being brave, telling your story and sharing it with the world.”
It’s time for Kirchberger and Forsthuber to return to their studios to finish the edit, knowing this material will be used to help spread the message of Wings for Life and encourage more people to contribute towards our groundbreaking research.
“I think there will be a cure one day,” Jonathan concludes. We are certain there will be, too.
Photographer Helge Kirchberger in action – capturing the perfect moment
The whole crew together: Patrick and Helge Kirchberger, Jonathan Forsthuber, and Dominik Wallner
Photos: James Robinson
FOR THOSE WHO CAN’T
Photo: Philip Platzer
Running Is Best Together
Never before have so many people participated in a running event –worldwide and at the same time.
More than a quarter of a million participants joined the Wings for Life World Run this year, 265,818 to be exact. Whether it was their favourite route, via the app or at a flagship run, participants raised a staggering 8.1 million Euros for the cause. 100 % of the money raised will be channelled directly into spinal cord research and help find a cure for spinal cord injuries.
A huge thank you to everyone –World Runners, volunteers, and sponsors – for their fantastic support!
Photo: Dominik Czerny
Photo: Suguru Saito
Photo: Natasha Swanson
Photo:
Scientific Meeting
Six reasons to love our annual scientific symposium.
1
Common Hotspot
Every spring, all the key players in the field of spinal cord research convene in Salzburg, Austria, for two days of talks and presentations. The most recent meeting featured 95 participants from 15 nations presenting their latest research findings. Highly interesting.
2
Focus on Networking
Alongside 20 live talks, we offer scientists the perfect setting to exchange ideas, discuss approaches, and network over a cup of coffee. We love the idea of networking for progress.
Smells like Science Spirit
Yep, we definitely enjoy feeling that special vibe in the air. From lectures and poster sessions to the evening programme, all participants share a common goal: to improve the lives of people suffering from spinal cord injuries. That brings people together.
Cheers to the
Youngsters
We are committed to nurturing young talent. Not only at our Summer School, a biannual event for young professionals, but also at our Scientific Meeting, where we present awards for the best poster every year. All in the spirit of encouragement and motivation.
Researcher Aya Takeoka arrived with her infant daughter. Since we refused to deprive ourselves of her knowledge, we swapped planning duties for a baby carrier and assisted her with childcare. 3 4
5
Child’s Play
6
Smart Crowd
When researchers from King’s College in London rub shoulders with colleagues from Harvard Medical School and Charité Berlin, their combined IQ makes the air crackle. Chills.
Sarah and Roland are united in their commitment to Wings for Life: “It’s so important that there’s a chance for a cure.”
Two Fates, One Mission
Sarah Hundert and Roland Gassner have something in common. Both suffered spinal cord injuries in an accident, which is why they introduced Wings for Life to their home country of Liechtenstein.
Photo: Helge Kirchberger
Roland, you had just become a father. Just two days after the birth of your son, you were left paralyzed. What happened?
Roland: My son Luca was born in 2009, and I was in hospital with my wife at the time. In the evening, I decided to meet some friends to raise a glass to my son. It was snowing when we drove home that night, with me in the passenger seat. Then the accident happened. We swerved off the road and crashed down a 150-metre embankment.
Can you still remember details?
Roland: I remember being trapped in the car and freezing. I immediately sensed that something was wrong. My friend went for help,
Sarah and Roland are not only good friends, but also board members of Wings for Life in Liechtenstein.
Beautiful memories: Roland together with his son Luca during a family vacation in Venice, Italy
Photos: Mona Lechner, Helge Kirchberger
but we were somewhere in an isolated part of the forest. I remember a policeman talking to me, but I have no further memory of what happened.
What happened after that?
Roland: I was airlifted to hospital for emergency surgery. Two days later I found myself in the ICU at the Swiss Paraplegic Centre in Nottwil. I had water in my lungs, broken ribs, splinters in my head –the list of injuries was a whole A4 page long. I was placed in an artificial coma and had nightmares. The walls seemed to move, and I felt like I was being persecuted. My time there was pure hell.
Sarah, what do you recall?
Sarah: I remember waking up in intensive care, furious that my new downhill clothing had been cut to shreds during initial treatment. I
“I immediately sensed that something was wrong.”
Roland Gassner
was high on morphine and hadn’t yet fully realized the extent of my injuries. My accident happened while downhill biking at the Swiss Championships in Zermatt. I was only 18 years old at the time and still an apprentice. I competed as a hobby athlete and arrived too late, so I had no opportunity to scout the course beforehand. During the training run, I was surprised by a jump, maybe two to three metres high, after a curve. I didn’t have enough speed and momentum to clear the jump. I hit the ground headfirst in the centre of the slope and was left lying near the edge.
When did you realize that you had suffered a spinal cord injury?
Sarah: I had a broken neck and was forced to wear a neck brace. I wasn’t allowed to move independently; I had to ring a bell every time I wished to turn. I only realized the extent of my injury when I removed the neck brace and was still unable to move due to the
spinal cord injury. From one moment to the next, I found myself requiring assistance to go to the toilet, to wash, to dress, and even to get out of bed.
How did you cope?
Sarah: My roommate was also very young. Over time, we gradually gained more mobility and hung out together. It was difficult, but we made the best of it. We started helping each other, which gave us more freedom. It was different for my family. The situation was very distressing for them. It makes them very sad, and they still struggle to come to terms with it to this day –more than I do, actually.
Roland: There are times when I also feel that my family suffers more than I do. The first few months were really tough, but I learnt to deal with the situation. My injury allowed me to experience my son’s growing up very closely, as I spent a lot of time at home. I used to roll him around on my knees for
Sarah works in event management and is a passionate paraski athlete.
Roland lives in Vaduz and is owner of an architecture office.
miles. He loved that. He always sought a way forward for both of us and grew up not knowing anything different.
You are both campaigning for a cure for spinal cord injuries. How exactly?
Roland: When I was in hospital for surgery a few years ago, I came across a broadcast of the Wings for Life World Run on the TV in my room. I remember thinking what a cool event it was. I then joined forces with Sarah to set up a running team, and, in the end, we participated with 140 other team members. And then everything just kept growing.
Sarah: I first met Roland when I visited his architecture firm shortly after my accident. I had so many questions about wheelchair usage, and we got to know each other better over time. When Roland told me about Wings for Life one day, I was immediately sold on the idea. Our aim was to increase awareness of the foundation in Switzerland and Liechtenstein, and we actively pursued this goal. Last year, a separate Wings for Life Foundation was actually established in Liechtenstein; CEO Anita Gerhardter and founder Heinz Kinigadner appointed us to the foundation board. Research requires substantial funding, which
is why we hope to attract a number of major companies as partners. The foundation is so important, not least for those who come after us and sustain similar injuries. It is essential that they feel they have a chance and that there is hope for a cure.
Do you have particular wishes?
Roland: Yes, in my case it relates to pain. I have lived in pain every day since my accident. It comes and goes, and I can’t influence its timing. It feels like a series of electric shocks coming in waves. It’s so tiring, simply because it hurts so terribly. My greatest wish would be to be pain-free.
Sarah: I’m fortunate to be quite independent and mobile, so I can do most things unassisted. The inability to walk is not even the worst aspect for me. Controlling my bladder and bowels independently would be my greatest wish. Regaining that control would be so wonderful.
What would you do if a cure was presented tomorrow?
Sarah: I love sport, be it skiing, tennis, or wakeboarding. It would be awesome to do all that on my own two legs again.
Roland: It’s also all about moving for me. During my time in the rehab clinic, I made a promise to myself. If I ever walk again, I’ll travel the Way of St. James – 800 kilometres of walking on my own two feet.
A strong team: Sarah and Roland are dedicated to raising awareness for Wings for Life in both Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
Photo: Mona Lechner
A TRIP INTO THE WORLD OF
ART, CUISINE AND AVIATION
Originally designed to house The Flying Bulls’ ever-growing collection of historic aircraft, Hangar-7 is now synonymous with avant-garde architecture, modern art and world-class cuisine. All this makes it one of the region’s most diverse destinations.
There is no other place like Hangar-7 for a journey through day and night. Each time of day casts a different mood over the aircraft, racing cars and numerous exhibits. And nowhere else can this be experienced as pleasantly, comfortably and enjoyably as over breakfast in the Carpe Diem Lounge–Café, a guest chef’s menu in the Restaurant Ikarus or a cocktail in the Mayday Bar.
A LifeChanging Nerve
The vagus nerve is the most fascinating nerve in our body – and plays a key role in the treatment of spinal cord injuries. Professor Michael Kilgard has discovered a way to utilize its capabilities. The beginning of a revolutionary therapy approach.
Photo: Jonathan Zizzo
Professor
is one of the leading scientists in the field of neural plasticity.
Michael Kilgard
This small chip (on the right) has the potential to change lives. It is implanted in the necks of patients, directly on the vagus nerve.
“We established that vagus nerve stimulation is also effective in treating spinal cord injuries.”
Michael Kilgard
Are you familiar with the vagus nerve? It runs from the brain, through the neck, and into the abdomen. As one of the longest nerves in the body, it automatically regulates vital functions such as heart rate and digestion. Unlike motor nerves, which we utilize for movement, the vagus nerve cannot be actively influenced. The exciting aspect is that, if stimulated during therapy by targeted electrical impulses, it is capable of forming new nerve connections – which, in the bestcase scenario, enables movement.
A new era of nerve therapy
The vagus nerve is easily accessible from the outside, which renders it a highly attractive option for the treatment of neurological diseases such as epilepsy or tinnitus. Professor Kilgard has tapped into this very fact. Over the past 25 years, he and his team at the University of Texas in Dallas have been researching the nerve’s special abilities. Michael Kilgard is a pioneer in the field of vagus nerve stimulation, VNS for short, and has made some truly groundbreaking discoveries. “The reason we’re confident that vagus nerve stimulation is going to work, is that the pairing of VNS with physical therapy already worked in clinical trials that were conducted in individuals with ischemic stroke,” says Kilgard.
A stroke and a spinal cord injury seem to have little in common at first glance, yet a crucial correla-
tion exists. In both cases, neurons in the central nervous system are impaired or disrupted. Depending on the severity of the injury, patients have limited ability to move their hands, arms, and legs, among other symptoms. “We established that vagus nerve stimulation is also effective in treating spinal cord injuries in preclinical models. And we’ve been interested in developing devices to help people restore their own ability to control their arms and legs.”
How vagus nerve stimulation works
Kilgard and his team have vastly modernized VNS. In the past, it
was necessary to wrap electrodes around the nerve. A stimulation device had to be implanted at chest level and connected to the electrodes. Today, a minuscule chip replaces the outdated wire electrodes and bulky stimulator. The procedure takes only 30 minutes and is gentler on the patient.
A band worn around the neck supplies the chip with energy. During therapy, the stimulator is switched on and gentle electric shocks are transmitted to the brain via the nerve. This stimulates the regions responsible for learning new movements, for example. Then something truly remarkable occurs. Researchers call it
The band, placed around the neck, communicates wirelessly with the chip and supplies it with energy.
plasticity (i ). The brain learns that it needs to modify its circuits and access intact pathways in order to trigger certain movements. “Stimulating the vagus nerve while you practice things triples the number of connections that are made. This
iNEURONAL PLASTICITY
The architecture of our brain and spinal cord changes daily. New experiences or impulses form new connections between nerve cells. Existing pathways are expanded, while unused ones are reduced. This ability to rewire nerves is called neuronal plasticity. Without it, we would not be able to learn new skills.
ability to strengthen the number of new connections helps people recover better and faster from spinal cord injury,” the neuroscientist affirms.
Hope for spinal cord injury patients
What impact do all these technical advances have in practice? This is where the crucial next step comes in: the application in patients. Among the first to benefit from VNS are patients suffering from incomplete spinal cord injuries, as in the case of Amanda. She was involved in a car accident in 2015 and has been paralyzed ever since: “Thankfully I’ve gained quite a bit back. I have great arm movement, but obviously these hands – they
don’t do much.” Amanda is one of a total of 19 participants in Michael Kilgard’s clinical trial in Texas: “I decided to be part of the study because it just made sense, and it seemed the least invasive treatment option. I personally have seen great results with it,” the American says.
The study participants were each treated over a period of 36 days. They were asked to perform activities that pose problems for them in everyday life, such as buttoning a shirt, tying shoes, or pressing buttons. “We are working with games on tablets, where patients are required to press buttons or perform certain movements,” says Kilgard. Meanwhile, the stimulator is activated via an
Michael Kilgard during therapy with Amanda, one of the patients who participated in the clinical study in USA.
Photos: Jonathan Zizzo
app to transmit signals to the brain. These signals strengthen the nerve connections. “The movements subsequently increase in strength and the patients’ game high score rises, which increases their motivation to continue training,” the study supervisor reports.
Breakthrough in therapy
The path from basic laboratory research to clinical application in patients is both long and challenging. This makes the fact that
Dr. Kilgard’s team was able to successfully complete the study all the more significant. The publication of the results is highly anticipated. Are the findings significant and the therapy therefore effective? “The results remain unpublished, but yes, they are positive,” says the Texan. Patients actually improved their ability to grasp objects, and the researchers noted a marked improvement in hand function. “It’s fantastic, right? This has been 25 years in the plan-
ning. Working with all these 19 participants, they all signed up to be the very first people to ever receive this device – it was a daring adventure for them. And so, each person is an interesting story to me. We’re really looking forward to moving from the current 19 to 1,900 patients in the future,” the neuroscientist proudly announces. Following successful approval, the therapy could be available in just a matter of years and provide relief for many patients. It would then even be possible for individuals to conveniently use the device at home after a brief procedure in a clinic.
The clinical study demonstrates the enormous potential of vagus stimulation. It harbours genuine hope for those affected and has the power to sustainably improve their quality of life. Kilgard and his team are working tirelessly to improve walking, bladder, and bowel functions next. The aim is to enable people with spinal cord injuries like Amanda to lead a more independent life: “My biggest hope, I guess, is just to get back to being independent in all ways – and I am definitely getting there.”
How we support:
Wings for Life already funded the preceding project and the clinical study by Michael Kilgard with a total of 1.1 million Euros.
Thank you for making such projects possible with your donations and helping us find a cure for spinal cord injuries.
The patients have to perform certain movements while the vagus nerve is being stimulated.
Talents in Science
Faith Brennan, Ph.D., Neuroscientist at Queen’s University, Canada
Dr. Brennan, what sparked your interest in spinal cord research?
As a kid, I was drawn to exploring how things worked. I really loved science, subsequently went to grad school and realized, that I could have an exciting career in research. I was drawn to neuro science because there is so much to discover, and I felt research could make a big difference for people living with complex neurological disorders like spinal cord injury.
Can you explain your actual project in a few simple words?
Spinal cord injury triggers a massive inflammatory response within injured spinal tissue. Immune cells called macrophages are key players in this response. Macrophages have the capacity to heal the injured tissue or to cause further damage to the surrounding healthy spinal cord. The project funded by Wings for Life aims to understand how we
can boost the protective properties of macrophages to boost recovery after spinal cord injury.
You established your own research lab in 2022. How does that make you feel?
Extremely privileged. It’s a huge responsibility to lead a team that looks to you for guidance, but it’s also very rewarding to mentor such dedicated individuals. It’s a wonderful moment to watch a student’s eyes light up and share their excitement after making a new discovery.
What has been the most important lesson in your career?
I think it’s important to be flexible with where the scientific process leads. Sometimes the serendipitous observations are the most exciting; it’s easy to miss things out of the ordinary if you’re not open to exploring new opportunities. The data can often surprise you.
What is life like in Canada, considering you were born and raised in Australia?
A typical winter’s day in Brisbane, Australia, is between 11 °C to 21 °C … it gets a tad colder than that during Canadian winters. Also, spiders are much less common in Canada,
so I don’t need to check my shoes for unexpected guests.
What is most important to you in life?
I think being honest about what I want in life, finding the guts to go after it, and finding a balance so that it doesn’t take over. Time with family and friends is so precious, so I don’t take that for granted.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
Watching Formula 1 on race weekends! I’m a big Max Verstappen fan.
Do you have a personal mantra or philosophy?
It’s easy to underestimate the value of consistently chipping away at projects every day. Small habits can really add up over time to achieve big goals. It’s reassuring to know that I don’t have to be remarkable, just relentless.
What are you wishing for?
My goal is to do rigorous research that uncovers exciting new neuroscience knowledge. My hope is that this knowledge can be used to develop therapies to improve the quality of life for people suffering from serious neurological conditions like spinal cord injury.
Photo: Christoph Platzer
Faith Brennan
Faith Brennan is addressing the inflammatory response after a spinal cord injury. In her research, she is particularly interested in special cell types called “macrophages” and “microglia” and their impact on potential recovery. More at: wingsforlife.com/research
Projects with Promise 7
Scientists around the globe are working feverishly to find a cure for spinal cord injury.
We take a closer look at seven of Wings for Life’s funded research projects, as well as one highly exciting clinical trial.
Magnetic Field Stimulates Mobility
Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
In the event of a spinal cord injury, damaged motor pathways cause paralysis. Toshiki Tazoe and his team strive to reroute the interrupted information highway from the brain to the muscles by means of a technical trigger. The scientists apply a gentle method of external magnetic stimulation of the spinal cord. A computer interface is intended to enable chronically injured patients to walk again with the help of stimulation. When applied repeatedly, this should stimulate plastic neuromodulation. This could strengthen and expand retained movement cycles. If they succeed in proving the feasibility in their current study, the researchers intend to conduct a clinical trial on this innovative rehabilitation approach.
Wings for Life
Toshiki Tazoe aims to re-establish the disrupted communication between the brain and muscles – using magnetic stimulation.
Toshiki Tazoe presented at the scientific symposium of
Many brilliant minds, one shared goal: the research group led by Toshiki Tazoe at the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science
The Strength of the Shell
Ohio State University, Neuroscience Columbus, Columbus, US
Even after a complete spinal cord injury, some nerve fibres may remain intact. However, these residual connections only perform in an impaired manner. Christina Marion of Ohio State University is looking for a way to restore function to these connections. She subjects nerve fibres to targeted stimuli by means of medication and training sessions. Her focus is on the nerve’s protective layer, the so-called myelin. This shell layer renders nerve tracts more conductive, and therefore more efficient. By rebuilding these protective layers, important functions could ultimately be regained, even long after the damage has occurred.
Christina Marion in conversation with Prof. Hans Lassmann from the University of Vienna
Less Stress, More Growth
University of California
San Diego, Neurosciences
La Jolla, San Diego, US
Following a spinal cord injury, so-called “stress granules” are formed at cellular level. This immediate reaction may be microscopic, but it impacts the repair processes enormously. To date, their exact effect has not been fully explored. Marc Hernaiz Llorens, however, is researching these mRNA-protein accumulations in San Diego. His objective is to neutralize the core proteins of these stress products at molecular level. This should significantly promote recovery and growth of nerve cells.
Neutrophils Fuel Inflammation
Texas A&M University, Biology, College Station, US
Immediately after a spinal cord injury, the bloodstream is flooded with molecular stress signals. As a result, immune cells migrate into the injury site. The majority of these are so-called “neutrophil cells”. Positive: their removal of cell waste. However, the downside is that they cause inflammation, which causes even greater cell damage in the spinal cord. Shelby Reid and her team are investigating how neutrophils cause this inflammation. If the exact circuit can be correctly identified, there is hope for greater motor recovery.
Shelby Reid from Texas A&M University
Marc Hernaiz Llorens in his lab at the University of California, San Diego
Repairing Damage with Stem Cells
Ludwig
Boltzmann Institute of Traumatology, Vienna, Austria
The first days and weeks following a spinal cord injury are devastating: inflammatory reactions, tissue destruction, and scarring occur. Natural processes, such as the migration of immune cells to the injury, are misdirected. Instead of simply removing destroyed cells, inflammatory processes cause further damage. Stem cell therapy aims to intervene in this process. Oona Jung’s aim is to develop a new form of stem cell therapy. She combines factors that trigger tissue recovery with those that influence the immune response. The hope is to lay the foundation for a safe and easy-to-use therapeutic approach.
Ependymal
Cells for a Permeable Scar
IIBCE, Neurofisiología Celular y Molecular, Montevideo, Uruguay
Raúl Russo’s research group in Montevideo focuses on ependymal cells. These cells form the delicate barrier between the cerebrospinal fluid and the central nervous system. Following a spinal cord injury, they react by creating cells for scar tissue. Russo now hopes to influence the ependymal layer in a manner that creates a scar that is as permeable as possible. This is an important prerequisite for the re-sprouting of nerve cells. The key is understanding how cells transmit commands to each other. They communicate via communication channels, so-called connexons. These, in turn, consist of proteins known as connexins, which the researchers now endeavour to manipulate. Once the relevant communication channel has been determined, the team aims to develop a tool to transmit the correct message. The goal: a new therapeutic treatment.
Oona Jung from the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute in Vienna
Raúl Russo in discussion with fellow researchers during his visit to the Wings for Life Scientific Meeting
Of Itching and Walking
University of Auckland, Anatomical and Medical Imaging, New Zealand
Medication to treat pruritus could help paraplegics regain the ability to walk. In animals, the drug has already been shown to inhibit the activation of inflammation by supporting cells and microglia following spinal cord injury.
Simon O’Carroll is now studying the drug Nalfurafine in a clinically relevant model. His aim is to reduce the migration of immune cells while stimulating the survival of nerve cells and supporting cells. This could lead to improved walking ability post-injury.
The DISCUS Study
We also closely monitor Wings for Life-supported clinical trials
The spinal cord begins to swell post-injury and is pressed against the surrounding bone structure. This impairs blood flow, leading to increased spinal cord pressure and greater tissue damage. One known method of reducing this pressure is to remove parts of the bone structure, creating a little more space for the spinal cord.
DISCUS is now exploring whether it would be helpful to also temporarily open the hard meninges (dura) surrounding the spinal cord before resealing it with a patch. This additional space could result in less damage. This approach is currently being tested on patients in numerous European centres in a coordinated effort by Marios Papadopoulos, Samira Saadoun, and Lukas Grassner. Provided the results are positive, this method could prevent severe subsequent damage and become the future standard treatment for acute spinal cord injuries.
The coordinators of the DISCUS study: Lukas Grassner, Samira Saadoun, and Marios Papadopoulos (from left)
Simon O’Carroll (on the right) with his team from the University of Auckland
Most-Read Stories
Why does the path to a cure resemble a labyrinth and what are the biggest hurdles along the way? An insight into our most-read stories.
The Valley of Death
Falling by the wayside
Many valuable medical discoveries never reach the patient. They fail at a hurdle that presents a major headache for scientists: the Valley of Death. A series of measures aim to remedy the situation.
View story here.
The History of Spinal Cord Research
A puzzle is coming together
In the past, it wasn’t even possible to treat people suffering from spinal cord injuries. Today, the first patients are taking their own steps again – thanks to the many bright minds in spinal cord research. Each dis
The Labyrinth of Science On the path to a cure
Will it be possible to find a cure for spinal cord injuries? And why is it so difficult? These are two most common questions we are confronted with. The answer to the first one is an emphatic yes. There will be a cure. When answering the second question, we like to compare the research process
covery brings us one step closer to finding a cure: a chronicle of the most important events.
Read the story here.
with a labyrinth. It’s difficult to find the correct path, but it’s possible. There are pointers and short cuts, but also many dead ends and forks in the road.
Scan the QR-Code to read.
When the World Stops Turning …
by Anita Gerhardter
Heinz Kinigadner often refers to the day of his son Hannes’ accident with the words: “Our world suddenly stopped turning.” It is almost impossible to express the unthinkable, the unimaginable, the brutal shock.
The news of Hannes’ accident reached me during a holiday in Greece. I was sitting on a beach, watching my then 11year old son splashing around in the water. I just sat there in a daze, completely incapable of even beginning to understand what this terrible news meant. I recall thinking: “How fortunate I am to watch my unharmed, healthy child play.” All this while the Kinigadners were hoping for the best at the bedside of their seriously injured son.
If someone had, at that time, suggested to me that I would one day devote all my energy and strength to a project dedicated to Hannes’ greatest hope – finding a cure for spinal cord injuries – I would have called them crazy. Yet when the world suddenly stops turning, your priorities and plans change.
Wings for Life has since evolved into the project closest to my heart, my life’s work. The research that your help allows us to support is the key to a future without physical limitations. It provides realistic hope for people suffering from spinal cord injuries. This is what drives us, and my team and I endeavour to give our best every day. Thank you for joining us on this journey!
Anita Gerhardter has been International CEO of the Wings for Life Foundation since 2008.
Photo: Helge Kirchberger
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