Why Support Spine Research and Education?

The Sonoran Spine Research and Education Foundation (SSREF) is an independent, non-profit organization founded in 2000 for the specific purpose of supporting spine related research and education efforts related to spinal disease. Your tax exempt contribution allows SSREF to fund these worthy efforts.

One of the primary functions of SSREF has been awarding college scholarships to students with significant spinal deformity. Scholarships are administered through the Financial Aid Office at Arizona State University and coordinated for all award applicants attending any of the state;s universities. Scholarships have been awarded yearly for students attending Arizona State University, University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University. The number and amount of the awards has varied based on contributions to SSREF.

Our Foundation also sponsors several educational classes and seminars yearly, like the Arizona Spine and Scoliosis Symposium, a one day event for physicians, healthcare professionals and the public, that presents and reviews the latest treatments on scoliosis and spinal deformity. SSREF also contributes to the Scoliosis Association, a patient support group locally and nationally.

Degenerative disk disease, spinal arthritis and spinal stenosis have a major impact the lives of many adults. To assist the public in learning about these conditions, SSEF sponsors programs and classes open to the public on how to live, function, and thrive with degenerative spinal disorders. We promote an exercise program and preventive lifestyle that helps people remain active despite spinal arthritis. We also support other public awareness programs and advocacy groups for spinal disorders ranging from back to neck pain to complex scoliosis.

The Foundation supports many research activities. Some of the projects have included pediatric and adult scoliosis, kyphosis, spine trauma, osteoporosis, spondylolisthesis, degenerative disk disease, disk herniation with less scar formation, bone morphogenic protein enhancing spinal fusion, and work related back injuries. Our research results are presented yearly at such national and international spine meetings as the North American Spine Society, the Scoliosis Research Society, American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, International Meeting for Advanced Spinal Techniques, Eurospine, Spine Across the Sea, Congress of Neurosurgeons and others.

Consider a charitable gift to the Sonoran Spine Research and Education Foundation by sending your tax-deductible contribution. Donors who itemize are eligible to take a charitable income tax deduction on their federal income tax return and the Foundation is happy to send you a receipt.

Your support for the Sonoran Spine Research and Education Foundation is a commitment to spinal disease research and education. The Foundation and this community will appreciate your generosity.

For more information, spend a few minutes in our website. Feel free to contact us.