Post-Polio Health International (PHI)

06/15/2026

Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. If you are a victim of elder abuse or know someone who is, Drs. Olkin and Machell have some helpful guidance on what to do and where to get help.

https://post-polio.org/positive_solutions/discussion-on-partner-abuse-for-people-with-disabilities/

Dr. Olkin addresses male to female partner abuse in heterosexual relationships: If you are being abused by a partner, I want to say two things to you right at the start: (a) You are not alone; (b) It is not your fault. And the third thing is that there is help and hope, but you have to take the firs...

06/11/2026

Are you a caregiver looking for resources? Check out PHI's Caregiver resource page on our wbsite.

Resources for Caregivers of Polio Survivors Caregivers play a vital role in supporting the health, independence, and quality of life of people who live with the late effects of polio. Whether you are a family member, friend, or professional providing assistance, understanding the unique needs and ex...

06/01/2026

Just sharing this opportunity for those that are interested. This is an in-person study for those in the vicinity of the University of Illinois.

05/28/2026

From surviving polio as a child to becoming a teacher, coach, and mentor for others with disabilities, Le Van Hai’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience, compassion, and the importance of community support.

After losing the use of his legs to polio at age six, Mr. Hai refused to let adversity define his future. Instead, he dedicated his life to education, offering free computer classes for people with disabilities and helping others build confidence, independence, and opportunity.

“Because I was once someone who received help, I understand the value of giving.”

Stories like Mr. Hai’s reflect the strength and determination that continue to inspire the post-polio and disability communities around the world.

Mr. Le Van Hai, a person with a mobility disability due to the aftereffects of polio since childhood, not only persevered through adversity to live a positive life but also spread his strength and belief to the disabled community in Ho Chi Minh City through many meaningful activities.

05/26/2026

This thoughtful article looks at how the March of Dimes helped unite Americans behind the fight against polio — and why that history still matters today.

For the post-polio community, it’s a reminder of what can happen when science, public trust, and community action come together. Worth a read.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/the-march-of-dimes-campaign-for-a-polio-vaccine-offers-a-model-for-restoring-americans-faith-in-science/ar-AA245LNq?ocid=socialshare

America’s scientific enterprise, once the envy of the world, is in crisis. Sweeping cuts to federal research threaten to ground what has been, for over 80 years, the most productive and innovative scientific infrastructure in history. These changes signal an uncertain future but also call for less...

05/20/2026

For those that have been following Texas vs. Kennedy, which threatens to undermine Section 504 and the ability for many with disabilities to receive home-based services, Disability Scoop has published an update.

https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2026/05/19/states-ask-federal-court-to-strike-disability-protections/32006/

A multi-state lawsuit challenging the right of people with disabilities to live and receive services in the community is barreling forward even as some states are calling it quits.

05/18/2026

Sharing this from Polio Québec:

Yoga for You – Gentle Online Yoga

Polio Québec warmly invites you to join our Yoga for You class, a gentle and accessible online yoga session designed especially for people living with POLIO and limited mobility.

📅Monday, May 18, 2026
🕒3:00 PM EDT
💻Online via Zoom

This class is designed to be simple, safe, and encouraging. Movements are slow and adaptable, and you are welcome to participate seated in a chair or in any comfortable position.

No previous yoga experience is needed. The goal is simply to breathe, relax, and move gently, at your own pace.

A message from the instructor

“I am pleased to invite you to our Yoga for You classes. Join me for a gentle and encouraging session focused on breathing, relaxation, and reconnecting with our well-being. Everyone is welcome, and you can participate according to your own abilities.”
— Mandee Labelle

How to join ZOOM

The session lasts 45 minutes and can be followed from the comfort of your home using a phone, tablet, or computer.

At the time of the class, simply click the link below:

Zoom is the leader in modern enterprise cloud communications.

05/13/2026

Just as new federal protections against disability discrimination in healthcare were about to take effect, the government announced it is delaying the rules and reconsidering parts of them. The regulations were designed to improve accessibility and ensure people with disabilities receive equal treatment in healthcare settings. Advocates worry the delay could slow progress toward more inclusive and equitable care for millions of Americans with disabilities.

https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2026/05/11/feds-to-reconsider-rule-barring-disability-discrimination-in-healthcare/31995/

Just as they were set to take effect, federal officials are delaying new requirements meant to make healthcare more accessible to people with disabilities and signaling that additional changes are likely.

05/08/2026

Two longtime supporters, Pat Kelly of Ohio Polio Network and Warren Peascoe of The Mid-Ohio Valley Post-Polio Support Group, were recently featured in the Parkersburg News and Sentinel. Much appreciation to these two champions of the polio survivor community and their many years of advocacy.

https://www.newsandsentinel.com/news/community-news/2026/05/polio-support-group-meets/

The Mid-Ohio Valley Post-Polio Support Group met at the Wood County Society for lunch and a discussion including the primary election in West Virginia on May 12. Members discussed how to go the the West Virginia secretary of state website to find their voter registration status and how to view their...