Paralyzed Veterans of America Honored with Award for Advocacy by National Fertility Association

WASHINGTON, Nov. 18, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Paralyzed Veterans of America (Paralyzed Veterans) was recently presented with the Hope Award for Advocacy by non-profit organization, RESOLVE, during its 19^th annual Night of Hope Gala in New York City. The award was presented to Paralyzed Veterans for its efforts to ensure injured veterans have access to fertility services. Paralyzed Veterans' National President Al Kovach, Jr. accepted the award on behalf of the organization.

"Paralyzed Veterans of America is honored to have our work recognized with the Hope award. Its name is synonymous with what we are now able to offer injured veterans, in large part thanks to dedicated partners such as RESOLVE," said Kovach. "Now the most catastrophically injured veterans have a chance to lead full lives after service, and for many veterans this includes having children. We thank RESOLVE for their leadership on this issue, and thank Senator Patty Murray who has made this a top priority on her agenda."

RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, established in 1974, promotes reproductive health and ensures equal access to all family building options for men and women experiencing infertility or other reproductive disorders.

In September, Congress passed a provision that allows the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide reproductive services, including In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to veterans who qualify. For 24 years, since the ban prohibiting VA from providing veterans with these services, Paralyzed Veterans has worked tirelessly to advocate that procreative services be included as part of the medical benefits package of VA.

About Paralyzed Veterans of America
Paralyzed Veterans of America is the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or disease. For 70 years, we have ensured that veterans have received the benefits earned through their service to our nation; monitored their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funded research and education in the search for a cure and improved care for individuals with paralysis.

As a partner for life, Paralyzed Veterans also develops training and career services, works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and recreation and advocates for veterans and all people with disabilities. With more than 70 offices and 34 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans serves veterans, their families and their caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

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SOURCE Paralyzed Veterans of America