Canadian Paraplegic Association Ontario SEX, WHEELS & RELATIONSHIPS FORUM

Toronto, ON, (PRWEB) September 29, 2005

Sex and relationships have probably never been as complex as they are today. Compound this with having a spinal cord injury or other physical disability and the nature of sex or even the potential of having a relationship can seem to some to be overwhelming.

With longer life expectancies following SCI, the emphasis in rehabilitation over the past decade has gradually shifted to improved quality of life. Toward this goal, issues related to sexuality and relationships will be explored in the Canadian Paraplegic Association (CPA) Ontario’s Sex, Wheels & Relationships Forum.

Bill Adair, Executive Director CPA Ontario commented, “A spinal cord injury does not decrease a person’s sexuality and rarely does it destroy his or her interest in being sexual. It is not a topic that is very openly discussed very often. In our goal to promote the sharing and application of new knowledge with persons who have a SCI or physical disability, we felt it was time to address the topic of sex and relationships. The speakers at the Forum will discuss their own experience as well as clinical and research studies, covering a broad range of topics involved in sex and relationships.”

Long time partners Gluckstein & Associates, Henderson Structured Settlements and Sibley & Associates are supporting the initiative. Bernard Gluckstein, LLB, Gluckstein & Associates said, “This is a bold initiative that needs to be addressed frankly and openly. Persons with a spinal cord injury or other physical disability have just as many questions about sex and relationships as people who are able bodied. Our top line research indicated that there was a definite desire for this discussion and we are pleased to help bring this information to all those who are interested in learning more.”

Please see the forum agenda for our great line-up of extremely interesting topics and outstanding speakers.

The event is free to CPA Ontario members, and $25.00 for non members (the fee includes a one year CPA Ontario membership).

SEX, WHEELS & RELATIONSHIPS FORUM

Location: Canadian National Institute for the Blind, 1929 Bayview Ave., Toronto

When: Thursday, October 6; 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Agenda:    1:00 p.m.        Welcome & Opening Remarks

1:10 – 1:40 p.m.“Shattering Sexual Stereotypes: Myths About Disability and Sexuality”

Cory Silverberg, sex educator & co-author of “The Ultimate Guide to Sex and Disability”, and founding member of “Come as You Are”, an accessible sex toy store

1:40 – 2:00 p.m.“Sex, Drugs & Health Policies”

Dr. Nicole Mittmann, Scientist, Sunnybrook and Women’s College Health Sciences Centre

Reviews the costs and benefits of treatments associated with erectile dysfunction in individuals with SCI

2:00 – 2:20 p.m.“The User’s Guide to Erectile Dysfunction and Sex After SCI”

Anita Kaiser, BSc (MSc cand), Research Assistant, Toronto Rehab-Lyndhurst Centre.

Explores consumers’ perceptions of managing erectile dysfunction after SCI

2:00 – 2:50 p.m. Break

2:50 – 3:10 p.m.“I’m not in the mood – is that okay?” Dr. Joseph R. Garber, C. Psych. Registered Psychologist Discusses some of his clinical experience with the impact of trauma on sexuality

3:10 – 3:30 p.m.“Dating Following a Spinal Cord Injury” Rich VanderWal, Rehabilitation Consultant & Recreational Therapist T4 paraplegic speaks about his experiences

3:30 – 5:00 p.m.Panel discussion and networking reception    

For interviews: Bev Jenkins, CPA Ontario, 416-422-5644 x 212.

To information / to register for Forum:    Melissa Doidge, 416-422-5644 x212.

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