Citing Department of Transportation statistics that say airlines in the United States “mishandle” an average of 1.5 percent of the mobility devices they transport, USA Today is seeking to hear directly from the people impacted.

“This year, USA Today wants to highlight what those figures mean for travelers with disabilities,” the newspaper said. “We’re looking to track these incidents throughout 2023 with the goal of bringing to light an all-too-common issue. If your own mobility devices was damaged or lost by an airline this year, please share your story with us.”

And if you share a story with USA Today, United Spinal would like to know, as well. “The more we report wheelchair damages, the greater attention this growing tragedy gets,” United Spinal said in its February newsletter. “Opportunities with the national press are few and far between, so please do take the time to add your voice to this critical issue that can literally cost lives of individuals in the wheelchair user community.”

Send your stories to United Spinal at advocacy@unitedspinal.org.