Recovery Should Not Cost Someone Everything They Built
Mission
M.A.D. Make A Difference raises money and rallies community around New Jersey adults recovering from paralysis that affects two or more limbs, who served others and now face financial hardship.
Vision
A New Jersey where no one who gave to their community has to choose between their recovery and their bills.
Who We Serve
Paralysis Affecting Two Or More Limbs
We focus on three forms of paralysis. Tap each one to see which limbs it affects.
Pick One
Each of these affects at least two limbs. That is the line M.A.D. uses to define who the fund serves.
General descriptions only, not medical advice. Eligibility is confirmed with documentation from the applicant's care provider.
By The Numbers
Paralysis Is More Common Than Most People Think
5.4M
Living With Paralysis
About 1.7% of Americans reported living with paralysis in 2013. About 72% were under 65. (Armour et al., American Journal of Public Health, 2016)
1 In 3
Caused By Stroke
Stroke was the leading cause of paralysis, followed by spinal cord injury. (Armour et al., American Journal of Public Health, 2016)
43
Average Age At Injury
The average age at traumatic spinal cord injury has been 43 since 2015, up from 29 in the 1970s. (NSCISC, 2024)
18,000
New Injuries Each Year
About 305,000 Americans live with a traumatic spinal cord injury, with roughly 18,000 new cases a year. (NSCISC, 2024)
Estimates differ between studies because they count differently. Armour et al. used a national survey of people reporting paralysis from any cause. NSCISC counts traumatic spinal cord injuries only. Life expectancy after spinal cord injury has not improved since the 1980s, according to NSCISC.
3Is currently in therapy for hemiplegia, paraplegia, or quadriplegia.
4Faces real financial burden because of their injury or condition.
5Volunteered or served their community before their injury or diagnosis.
Our Commitments
How We Hold Ourselves Accountable
01
One Fund
Donations go to the M.A.D. Recovery Fund, not to a single named person. That keeps the process fair for every nominee.
02
Published Criteria
Every nomination is measured against the same five criteria, listed on this page for anyone to read.
03
New Jersey First
Every dollar raised serves New Jersey adults. Local money, local recovery.
Why M.A.D. Exists
Started By Someone Who Relearned To Walk
"I started Make A Difference because I wanted to give more than money to people who are a gift to the culture but get forgotten in their time of need. When I was recovering from two spinal cord surgeries, barely anyone came to see me other than my family. The community I supported got busy. I understand how life can do that. So I want to give exceptional individuals their flowers and their support. We don't just raise money. We bring a community to lift those chosen."
Keith Simmonds Jr., Founder
The BedAfter spinal cord surgery.The ChairFirst steps in rehab.The WalkerRelearning to walk.The RoomNow leading others.
Be Part Of It
Make A Difference Today
Give to the fund, or nominate someone who fits the criteria.
