SBA Concludes 38th National Conference

The Spina Bifida Association (SBA) concluded its 38th National Conference at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif. with more than 850 people in attendance, the largest attendance figure in over a decade. Returning to California for the first time since 1981, this Conference introduced SBA to many local residents as well as brought individuals together from around the country to learn about the latest research in Spina Bifida, to see new products showcased by exhibitors, and to have some fun in the gorgeous weather.

The 38th National Conference opening reception kicked off the three-day event with participants exuding smiles and enthusiasm as magicians performed tricks, vendors listened intently to the needs of our community, and attendees made new friends.

The opening plenary theme, Success Breeds Success, highlighted the progress that the Spina Bifida Community has made over the last few years in a multitude of respects. The panel discussion included updates on the advocacy work that has increased awareness about Spina Bifida and further developed the National Spina Bifida Program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A highlight was a featured presentation by Dr. Scott Adzick, from Childrens' Hospital of Philadelphia, on the groundbreaking Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS).

The Conference theme, Today's Magic Tomorrow's Vision, served as a great descriptor of the many educational sessions geared toward our health issues and psychosocial development. Our increasing bilingual community was represented at the first Spanish-language education day with experts presented cutting-edge information entirely in Spanish.

In addition to a wide array of educational sessions, Adult Day attendees were inspired by the positive insights that keynote speaker Marly Cornell offered through her experiences with raising a daughter with Spina Bifida. Her book The Able Life of Cody Jane served as a guide to teaching the audience self-determination and independence, inspiring qualities learned from her daughter who refused to let the challenges of her Spina Bifida stand in the way of achieving her dreams. 

This year's Celebration Luncheon allowed SBA to take a moment to publicly thank our Chapters that work so hard to make meaningful contributions to the understanding and appreciation of Spina Bifida by nation. In addition, Cindy Coney, a nationally recognized speaker and educator, regaled the audience with a moving speech about life, forgiveness, acceptance, and hope.

This year attendees as well as non-attendees received live updates on activities via SBA's Twitter and Facebook. Please join us on Twitter and Facebook to stay in the know.

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

Mark your calendars for our 39th National Conference at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown June 28 – July 1, 2012. Registration will be available online in January 2012.

Conference sessions
If you were unable to attend this year's Conference or didn't have a chance to attend all the sessions on your list, some presentations are available on the 38th National Conference Web site and in late August, some will be available on SBU.

4b4the4th thanks
The Conference also marked the conclusion of the 2011 4b4the4th campaign. SBA would like to send a special thank you to all of our many team captains who helped so tremendously with their efforts. In particular, thank you to Sarah Mueller, the team captain winner of the 4b4the4th campaign. Check out her video.