What we do

The Lone Star Paralysis Foundation (LSPF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, based in Austin, Texas. We raise money for paralysis research to support therapy for hundreds of patients. 

Founded in 1979 by our current President, Doug English, our mission is to cure Spinal Cord Paralysis (SCP) through funding research, recovery and recreation (three R's). Over the years, we have achieved milestones within each of the three R’s for those living with spinal cord injury. With the generosity of our donors and support from our community, we are striving to cure SCP this decade.

LSPF is working to move the clock forward on a cure.  We are planning new fundraising initiatives and seeking new research opportunities. Austin receives around 135 new spinal cord injuries each year. In almost every instance, the injured is a young, healthy, active person living life to the fullest when disaster strikes. Their stories are always tales of courage and inspiration. The board of LSPF will continue to donate their time and resources toward the goal of making paralysis from spinal cord injury only a temporary injury.

What we have accomplished 

• We have awarded 99 therapy scholarships to the uninsured and underinsured since 2019, totaling over $620,000 in scholarship dollars. 

• Our annual Lone Star Classic Golf, Gala & Comedy Show fundraiser has raised over $1.2M since 2022 with just under 6% overhead for administrative costs. 

• Our Outdoor Recreation Program offers free monthly & weekly activities including kayaking, archery, camping, hunting, and more. The program has served over 200 unique wheelchair users since 2022, and serves an average of 8 wheelchair users each week. 

• Our Adapted Sports program offers free weekly activities including adapted basketball, tennis, kayak, football, weight training and monthly Super Sport Saturdays. The program has served over 1,000 unique wheelchair users since 2022, and serves an average of 60 wheelchair users each week.