What is Spina Bifida?
Spina bifida, or “split spine,” occurs when the spinal cord and spine do not connect normally. This happens during the early stages of pregnancy when a baby’s spine and spinal cord are forming. Each year, about 1,500 babies born in the United States have spina bifida or a similar birth defect of the brain and spine.
Symptoms of this condition vary, depending on the type spina bifida the child has. There are three types of spina bifida: spina bifida occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele. Some forms of the condition are mild, like spina bifida occulta which many people have and do not know they have it. The most severe form is myelomeningocele, which causes nerve damage and other disabilities.
A proactive approach is essential
When a child has spina bifida, surgery is often required and an ongoing plan from a team of medical profes- sionals is necessary. Children with spina bifida have a range of symptoms which may include mobility chal- lenges, gastrointestinal disorders, hydrocephalus, and latex allergies.
Living a Full Life
Is there hope for kids with spina bifida?
Medical technology has advanced dramatically in the past few decades, leading to positive out- comes for people with spina bifida. Most chil- dren affected by spina bifida do well in school and sports, and 90% live to be adults. Some cas- es of the condition are mild and require little medical intervention.
Challenges
What challenges come with having a child with spina bifida?
As with many disabilities impacting children, the time spent in medical offices can limit typical childhood activities. Kids with spina bifida may face physical disabilities, sleep disorders, and multiple surgeries. Additional- ly, they have a higher risk of latex allergies and reactions to natural rubber products.
How does Victory Lane Camp help a family raising a child with spina bifida?
Feelings of isolation can be emotionally draining to any family. Raising a child who has spinda bifida can feel especially isolating.
Victory Lane Camp is a fully equipped community of caring and compassionate families who understand the joys and challenges of raising kids. We provide camping experiences for families raising kids from ages 3 to 13 who are facing a life-long medical condition.
We use camp experiences to build an intentional community of love and support. Our guided process empowers other families to surround and support a family who is raising a child with spina bifida.
Victory Lane Camp specializes in adapting every situation to make every family feel at home. We welcome, embrace, and intention- ally meet each family’s needs. As families connect, they encourage each other and share life experiences together outside of camp, ranging from organized events to impromptu family gatherings.
Want to get involved?
Learn how you can be part of this loving supportive community.