The Miami Project says recent breakthroughs in paralysis research at the center suggest clinical trials are on the horizon and this gift will position researchers to move quickly toward human trials.
Miami Project Ambassador Marc Buoniconti, says, "For us it was no surprise that when we launched the clinical trials initiative, the first persons to step up and make a lead gift were Gloria and Emilio Estefan."
Gloria Estefan has been involved in paralysis research since a tour bus accident nearly left her paralyzed.
She explains, "It's obvious why I'm so involved in this. I was very lucky. Actually, yesterday [Monday], 16 years to the day, was my accident. Tomorrow, which is also my mother's birthday, will be 16 years that I got that operation and my extra spare parts that I carry with me still with pride and love."
Doctors first told Estefan she would never walk again, but titanium rods implanted in her back helped her recover.
