Our History

The Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation, a foundation named for the former Indy Racing League (IRL) standout, was created by Schmidt to help individuals overcome spinal cord injuries and other debilitating illnesses. Schmidt is currently recovering from serious upper spine injuries suffered in a testing accident on Jan. 6, 2000 while practicing for the season-opening Indy Racing League event at Walt Disney World Speedway in Orlando, Florida.

"Since my injury I have learned so much about the tremendous needs of people suffering from spinal cord injuries," Schmidt said. "There are three areas on which I have asked the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation to concentrate their fund-raising efforts to support. The first is research. The second, innovative equipment that can be used for rehabilitation. And, third, I want to help spinal cord injury patients who are caught in between public and private funding, and need help in paying for their rehabilitation."

Founded in early 2000, the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation is still growing and moving ahead. Schmidt's desire to beat paralysis drives him daily.

"I've sensed in the last three months why I'm here," the 36-year-old Schmidt said. "We're spreading the message that you need to stay in shape and keep working hard, because something is going to come. Frankly, I've come to the realization that I'm helping a lot more people now than I ever could as a driver."

"Let's face it, I'm selfish," he said. "If I'm going to be able to walk again, it's going to come through that foundation and through the funds we raise. That's a big motivating factor for me, too. I selfishly want to walk again but if I can drag thousands of people along with me that would be great!"