eInsights - July 15, 2008

SBA Wraps Up the 35th National Conference

Tucson, Arizona welcomed members of the Spina Bifida Community who came together June 22 – 25 at the 35th SBA National Conference. This year's Conference, the first in Arizona in many years, took on a decidedly Western flair as all settled into the picturesque desert environment. Combining nightly chats on the expansive terrace and late afternoons spent on the Lazy River with dynamic educational sessions and a bustling exhibit hall, this conference was one for the ages.

With over 700 people in attendance, including more than 130 first time attendees, the buzz from this conference was nothing but the best. Culminating in a town hall meeting, many first time attendees marveled at the way they were quickly welcomed into groups of long-time friends and embraced as if they had always been a part of the conversation.

Western chapter leadership was overjoyed at the opportunity for their Groups to attend an event right in their back yard. Attendees were particularly thrilled by the hotel and its staff who went to all lengths to ensure the stay was as pleasant and enjoyable as possible.

One particularly touching moment occurred during the Celebration Luncheon when a historical retrospective video was shown honoring all the work done by SBA and the Spina Bifida Community throughout the years.

Overall this year's Conference showed that we continue to be a strong community addressing social and medical issues that affect our population as we work towards our individual and collective goals. Thanks to all who participated!

Mark your calendars now: SBA's 36th National Conference will be held in Orlando, Florida at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort from June 30 – July 3, 2009.

To obtain session handouts please log onto http://conference.spinabifidaassociation.org.

To obtain conference photos, visit www.lambesisphoto.com and click on Order Online.

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