Paralyzed Veterans of America-Funded Research Wins 2026 Sharpey-Schafer Prize for Medical Breakthrough in Pain Relief

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 25, 2025) - Paralyzed Veterans of America applauds longtime research partner Dr. Stephen Waxman, director of the Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research at Yale School of Medicine, for being awarded the 2026 Sharpey-Schafer Prize. Dr. Waxman is recognized for his pioneering research on the molecular basis of pain and his pivotal role in laying the foundation for the first non-addictive pain medications.

This achievement, enabled by more than $9 million in PVA-funded grants, marks a major step toward safer treatments for pain related to spinal cord injuries and diseases (SCI/D).

Bestowed every three years by the United Kingdom-based Physiological Society, the Sharpey-Schafer Prize honors distinguished contributions to physiology that significantly advance scientific knowledge and public health. Past recipients include Nobel Laureates Torsten Wiesel and Erwin Neher.

"For nearly 80 years, PVA has championed vital research that improves the quality of life for Veterans with spinal cord injuries and diseases, like MS and ALS," said PVA National President Robert Thomas. "This achievement is a powerful reminder that investing in research can deliver life-changing results, giving disabled Veterans and all people living with acute pain the chance to lead fuller, more active lives. PVA applauds Dr. Waxman for this important work and is honored to have helped fund the foundational research that made this innovation possible."

PVA has invested more than $54 million across 644 research grants since its inception in 1976, supporting laboratory research, clinical studies, and the development of innovative technologies and fellowships. PVA also helped fund the construction of the Yale Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, located within the VA hospital in West Haven, Connecticut, and continues to support research conducted at the Center today.

Dr. Waxman's research has reshaped understanding of pain by identifying key molecules along pain pathways and has laid the foundation for a novel class of pain medications that bypass opioid mechanisms. The first drug in this class, Journavx, developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, was approved by the FDA in January 2025. It is the first new acute pain treatment in more than 20 years and the first that specifically targets a pain-signaling protein found only in the peripheral nervous system. While Journavx is not yet approved for chronic pain experienced by those with SCI/D, it represents a crucial advancement and is already helping people nationwide.

"Our focus is fixed firmly on finding new treatments - and ultimately cures - for SCI/D," said Dr. Waxman. "We regard PVA as a full partner in our research. PVA's support, from its gift to build the Center through decades of continued funding, has been invaluable. The Sharpey-Schafer Prize is testimony to that commitment, and I look forward to the day when we can celebrate, together, a full victory."

To learn more about PVA's research efforts or to apply for PVA's Research Foundation Grant, visit PVA.org/ResearchFoundation.

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About Paralyzed Veterans of America
Paralyzed Veterans of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or diseases. The organization ensures veterans receive the benefits earned through service to our nation; monitors their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funds research and education in the search for a cure and improved care for individuals with paralysis.

As a life-long partner and advocate for veterans and all people with disabilities, PVA also develops training and career services, works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, and provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and recreation. With more than 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans of America serves veterans, their families, and their caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Learn more at PVA.org.