Former Detroit Lion, Mike Utley, to Fund Physical Therapy Scholarship

Former Detroit Lion, Mike Utley, is offering a person with a spinal cord injury (SCI), the opportunity to maximize their recovery and improve their quality of life, by providing a scholarship to DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan.

Through the generous support of the Mike Utley Foundation, Utley will be funding a scholarship to Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (RIM). The Scholarship provides one free month of intense sessions designed to help the person engage in health, fitness and rehabilitation at the highest level after the program is completed.  The program will include physical therapy, biofeedback therapy, personal training and nutrition consultations. 

As a leader in the treatment of spinal cord injury, RIM sees more SCI patients than any other program in Michigan, including the most complex cases. RIM is also home to the Center for Spinal Cord Injury Recovery (CSCIR). The CSCIR is one of the first hospital-based programs of its kind in the U.S. to provide long-term, high-intensity, activity-based therapy, to optimize health and function in persons with spinal cord injury. The program incorporates the latest scientific research and innovative therapeutic techniques, in the quest to make recovery from spinal cord injury a reality.

Utley, was paralyzed during an NFL game in 1991. In the years since his injury he has inspired others with his own drive, determination and incredible motivation to strive for optimal physical performance.

Applications are now being accepted for the Mike Utley Scholarship. To download the scholarship application form, please visit www.RIMrehab.org and click on the “Community Programs” tab.  The deadline for submitting the application is May 1, 2011. 

About the Mike Utley Foundation

The Mike Utley Foundation was established January 2, 1992 to provide funding for research, rehabilitation and education for those living with spinal cord injuries. The Mike Utley Foundation encourages those disabled by such injuries to expand their potential through rehabilitation, physical training, education and a determined pursuit of personal goals. In addition to innovative research, the Foundation financially supports rehabilitation projects, patient and family assistance programs, patient equipment, patient and family education and therapeutic recreational programs.