The Kenny Diamond Memorial Fund to support research in spinal cord injury at Kessler Foundation was established by the Diamond family to honor their son Kenny who passed away after living for more than two years with widespread cancer and a spinal cord tumor. When Kenny’s paralysis made it too difficult for his parents to care for him at home, Kenny was admitted to Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, where he received exceptional care until he passed away.

“We are grateful for the care Kenny received. We created the memorial fund to support SCI research,” says Dr. Martin Diamond, Kenny’s father. “Research is pivotal to advance treatments, technologies and cures. We chose to support SCI research,” Dr. Diamond explains, “because of Kenny’s unique situation with spinal paralysis and to help advance rehabilitation research for all people living with SCI.”

Proceeds from The Kenny Diamond Memorial Fund will be targeted to defray housing costs for those patients needing financial assistance to enable participation in spinal implantation research at Kessler Foundation’s Tim and Carolyn Reynolds Center for Spinal Stimulation. 

Kenny’s younger brother, Jeff, adds, “A weight was lifted from my parents’ shoulders when Kenny was admitted to Kessler Institute. Jeff Diamond, Kenny Diamond holding his young niece, and Dr. Martin Diamond. They knew he would receive expert care while adapting to life with paralysis. However, Kenny passed away after only six weeks in the hospital. We chose to establish the fund to support others who wish to participate in SCI research but lack the means to join an extensive study.” 

“Kenny had a big heart. He would be pleased about helping others with SCI,” says Kenny’s mom Shirley. “The Kenny Diamond Memorial Fund is a way to share a piece of Kenny’s heart and for his family to show their gratitude.