eInsights - July 2009

36th National Conference Concludes

Orlando, Florida welcomed members of the Spina Bifida Community who came together under the fabulous Florida sun June 30 – July 3 to participate in the Spina Bifida Association’s (SBA) 36th National Conference. Held jointly with the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (IF), this year’s Conference welcomed over 760 attendees from 46 states and 17 countries.

The international presence helped to top off dynamic educational sessions while life-size Disney characters provided entertainment for the young and the young at heart. The air was filled with a “can do” spirit that began with an insightful Opening Plenary.

This year’s session, “The Impact of Advocacy: Taking Action and Making a Difference,” highlighted the persuasive power that each individual in our community has to invoke real change. Participants were engaged in the “how to’s” of advocating on a national and local level. Panelists included community members with years of advocacy experience.

One particularly amazing advocate for the disability community is John Kemp. Widely respected for his many achievements, both in the corporate and nonprofit worlds, Mr. Kemp delivered his impactful story about living life as a disability activist with humor, wit, and inspiration at this year’s Celebration Luncheon.

With personal disability experience using four prostheses, he inspires others to achieve the impossible through knowledge, experience, vision, personality, and persistence. Reflections from a Different Journey, a book co-authored by Mr. Kemp, features 40 stories by successful adults who grew up with disabilities.

Overall this year’s conference showed that we are a vibrant community committed to the well-being of individuals with Spina Bifida. Thanks to all who participated!

Mark your calendars for our 37th National Conference in Cincinnati, Ohio from June 27 – June 30. Registration will be available online in early February 2010.

Conference sessions
If you were not able to attend this year’s Conference or didn’t have a chance to attend all the sessions on your list, presentations are available on the 36th National Conference Web site.

Conference photos
To order your conference photos log onto www.christiesphotographic.com. Click on Order Photos Online and scroll down to Spina Bifida Association.

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eInsights is an electronic newsletter brought to you quarterly by the Spina Bifida Association.