OUR MISSION
Helping People Live Fully
The Bishstrong Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to inspiring and encouraging individuals with spinal cord injuries and paralysis to remain active, independent, and engaged in life.
Adaptive equipment is essential for both physical and mental well being — but expensive. Insurance rarely covers what people truly need.
Through community fundraising, we bridge that gap. Benefits of staying active include improved cardiovascular health, reduced muscle spasms, increased bone density, and stronger mental wellness.
2026 5K Run, Walk & Roll Sponsors
We are deeply grateful to the individuals and businesses who made our 5K possible.
Interested in sponsoring a future Bishstrong Foundation event? We'd love to partner with you in supporting the SCI community.
Become a SponsorTHE NEED
The Scale of the Challenge
18K
New traumatic spinal cord injuries in the US each year
$1M+
Estimated first-year medical cost for Spinal Cord Injuries
200K
Typical ongoing annual cost after the first year
100%
Of grant funds go directly to qualified recipients
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Apply for an Equipment Grant
We provide financial assistance grants to paralyzed individuals to help purchase adaptive equipment needed to promote independence and improve quality of life.
View our Grant Recipients to see the impact.
The heart of our foundation
DJ Bishop
DJ'S STORY
Inspired by One Person's Strength
The Bishstrong Foundation was founded by DJ — a C4 quadriplegic whose courage and determination inspired everyone who knew him. His experience navigating the overwhelming costs of SCI care showed just how wide the gap is between what people need and what they can access.
The costs will compound quickly, and insurance leaves enormous gaps. DJ's story — and thousands like him — became the foundation's purpose.
With the right resources, people living with paralysis can stay active, maintain independence, and lead fully meaningful lives. That's what we work toward every day.