Spina Bifida Support Group Foundation, Inc.

On this All Souls' Day, we take a moment to honor and remember our dearly departed. Lighting a candle is more than just a ritual; it's a powerful symbol of love and remembrance

On this All Saints' Day, we celebrate the legacy of those who have walked the path of holiness before us. Their lives inspire us to strive for greatness and to grow in virtue.

Let us take a moment to reflect on the saints in heaven, whose prayers lift us closer to our creator. May their guidance illuminate our journey, helping us overcome the challenges we face and encouraging us to live out our faith boldly.

🎉 Happy World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day everyone!
A special day to celebrate the achievements of the community, and join forces in !

Stay tuned, as we will be sharing:

✅ Updates from our conference in Malaysia
✅ Images, videos and texts about from our global SBH community

🔔Register for today’s webinar: https://bit.ly/WSBHD24conference

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟

Join us on September 27 at 6 PM for a special FB Live Webinar where we’ll officially introduce our PWD Jobseekers Facebook Community, powered by Project Inclusion Network! 🎉

Discover how this community can support Persons with Disability (PWD) jobseekers and learn about the incredible work being done by Project Inclusion Network. Let’s create opportunities and build meaningful connections together!

📅 Date: September 27
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Where: Facebook Live

Don’t miss out—be a part of this empowering initiative! 💼✨

Every child deserves to be born healthy. Birth defects can disrupt this natural harmony, posing challenges for both babies and their families. However, the power to prevent and treat birth defects lies in your hands. By taking proactive steps, you can ensure your baby's health and well-being from the very beginning.

To know more, click on the link.

Safeguard Your Baby's Health: Preventing and Treating Birth Defects Birth defects are a concern for many parents-to-be. While some birth defects are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk and ensure a healthy pregnancy. This article from John Hopkins Medicine sheds light on both preventative measures and treatment options for birth defects.Pl...

Thank you, Team Philippines! 💙♥️

WELCOME HOME, TEAM PILIPINAS! 🇵🇭

We are thrilled to welcome back our incredible Paralympians from the Paris 2024 Paralympics this morning!

Their journeys and triumphs have inspired us all, and the whole Philippines is proud to continue supporting and loving an inclusive sporting community.

Salamat sa inyong laban PARA sa bayan!

(📷: Philippine Sports Commission)

Let us pause for a moment and offer a prayer for the eternal repose of the soul of our beloved member, Jeraldine Jane Toral, who joined our creator yesterday, September 8, 2024.

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In your hands, O Lord,
we humbly entrust, baby Jeraldine.
In this life you embraced him with your tender love;
deliver her now from every evil
and bid her eternal rest.
The old order has passed away:
welcome her into paradise,
where there will be no sorrow, no weeping and no more pain,
but fullness of peace and joy
with your Son and the Holy Spirit
forever and ever.
Amen.
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May her family find comfort in God's loving arms in this time of grief.
Our deepest condolences.

The aim of the World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day (WSBHD) is to raise awareness and promote understanding about Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus. On this day, as a global community we also advocate and promote the rights of persons with SBH around the world.

This year 2024 takes on a special meaning as we will be liaising the WSBHD24 celebrations together with the 30th International Conference on Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus that will take place in Malaysia.

Please help us in selecting the WSBHD24 theme for October 25!
Your opinion matters!

Final Day to Vote for the WSBHD Theme 2024! Your opinion matters!
You can vote here 👇
https://forms.gle/nFxzNds7jjRqCEYR8

Everyone is currently on alert, particularly people near the Taal Volcano, due to the high quantity of sulfur dioxide emissions which generate volcanic smog or vog.

Smoke or VOG is harmful to one's health since it causes irritation to the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract, which can be severe depending on the concentration or duration of inhalation.

Here are some reminders on how to protect yourself from vog.

The 1st Spina Bifida Philippines Youth Assembly was a resounding success. It provided a much-needed platform for young individuals with Spina Bifida to connect, learn, and empower themselves. The assembly became an avenue for the SB youth to share their personal stories. They spoke candidly about the struggles they had faced, the triumphs they had celebrated, and the dreams they held for the future. Their words painted a vivid picture of the resilience, determination, and hope that characterizes the Spina Bifida community.

The assembly concluded with a call to action, that they have to Speak up so other people can hear them and let them see their importance in the society. The SB Youth Assembly urged participants to become advocates for themselves and others with Spina Bifida.

They were encouraged to use their voices to advocate for their rights and raise awareness about Spina Bifida. The goal was to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a more inclusive society for all. The youth participants left with a renewed sense of hope and a commitment to work together towards a brighter future for themselves and their peers. The inaugural Spina Bifida Philippines Youth Assembly laid the foundation for ongoing dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy within the community. It was a testament to the power of inclusivity, empowerment, and the unwavering spirit of the Spina Bifida youth.

PART 4: I AM A SB YOUTH AND I MATTER!

The final portion of the Assembly served as a comprehensive summation, encompassing all the experiences and insights gained throughout parts 1 to 3. It included the definition of the characteristics of a SB Youth, their challenges and issues, as well as enlightening and inspiring talks from guest speakers. Importantly, SB youth and their parents were called upon to make a solemn pledge—to work diligently towards establishing a more inclusive society, one where individuals with disabilities are afforded equal opportunities and have equitable access to resources.

Thank you Teacher Pia and Atty. Jessica!

PART 3:

Atty. Jessica Siquijor-Magbanua, a highly acclaimed advocate for individuals with disabilities, took the stage as the second speaker. Her captivating address focused on the vital importance of cultivating self-advocacy skills, bolstering self-confidence, and fostering unwavering resilience. Drawing on her personal experiences living with spina bifida, she shared the intricate challenges she confronted in both education and employment. Despite these formidable obstacles, she emerged triumphantly, shattering barriers and achieving her aspirations. Her remarkable journey served as a beacon of hope, not only for the SB youth in attendance but also for their parents.

Atty. Jessica's narrative painted a vivid picture of the countless hurdles she encountered throughout her educational journey. From the lack of accessible facilities to the prevailing stigmas surrounding disability, she fearlessly navigated a system that was often ill-equipped to accommodate her unique needs. Yet, rather than succumb to these disheartening circumstances, she harnessed her unwavering determination to advocate for herself and demand equal opportunities. Through her persistent efforts, she the way for countless other individuals with disabilities, leaving an enduring legacy of inclusivity and empowerment.

In the realm of employment, Atty. Jessica's journey was no less arduous. However, she refused to be defined by these setbacks. Instead, she turned her adversity into a catalyst for action, becoming a tireless advocate for accessible and inclusive workplaces. Through her dedicated efforts, she challenged employers to embrace diversity and recognize the immense value that individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce.

Atty. Jessica's captivating story served as a resounding testament to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for people with disabilities. Her unwavering spirit, coupled with her unwavering dedication to self-advocacy, inspired the SB youth and their parents alike. Her message resonated deeply, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who were fortunate enough to witness her address.

PART 3: TALKS FOR SB YOUTH AND THEIR PARENTS

For the third session, we were honored to have Guest Speakers share their knowledge and expertise.

Our opening guest speaker, Teacher Pia Clarisse A. Dela Cruz, a devoted Occupational Therapist, started her presentation with an inquiry about the audience's familiarity with occupational therapy. Despite its relative obscurity in our country, occupational therapy holds immense significance, particularly for children with special needs, such as spina bifida. Consequently, she briefly explains the ways in which occupational therapy can assist these children.

Her insightful discussion centered around "Following Child's Lead: Promoting Independence and Self-Confidence for Youth with Spina Bifida". She shared practical knowledge and tools to empower parents in raising confident, independent, and successful individuals. Teacher Pia emphasized the significance of self-acceptance, resilience, and the transformative power of community.

She reminded parents that by attentively following their child's lead and providing appropriate support, they can unlock their children's full potential and facilitate fulfilling lives. As a heartwarming conclusion, she presented a song from Bini titled "Na Na Nandito Lang", the song conveyed a powerful message to the SB youth, assuring them that their parents and countless others stand by them, offering unwavering support, love, and encouragement. She urged them to embrace their dreams fearlessly, knowing that they are not alone on this journey.

Free Webinar for the Youth!

Join the International Youth Group on August 12 to celebrate the International Youth Day together.

Register here: https://bit.ly/4c9GERa

Countdown - 3 days! Join the International Youth Group on August 12 to celebrate the International Youth Day together. How? Join the Webinar on Mental Health Matters!

Register now to secure your spot: https://bit.ly/4c9GERa

PART 2: CHALLENGES/ISSUES FACED BY SB YOUTH

In the second session, participants went through facilitated discussions and participants gained insights into the internal struggles faced by SB Youth. They explored the impact of negative societal messages on their self-esteem, highlighting the importance of challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive and accepting environment.

By the end of the 2nd session, participants had developed a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by SB Youths. They recognized the urgent need to create safe spaces where SB Youths can embrace their true selves, free from the constraints imposed by society.

SB Youth Assembly was divided into 4 parts

PART1: CHARACTERISTIC OF AN SB YOUTH

The day began with an engaging exploration of the unique characteristics that define a SB Youth. It was a journey into their world, where the interplay between their thoughts, feelings, and experiences came to life. The session aimed to shed light on the profound influence that society exerts on their self-perception.

As the discussion unfolded, participants delved into the various factors that shape a SB Youth's identity. They examined how cultural norms, societal expectations, and media portrayal contribute to the formation of their self-image.

The session culminated with a powerful reminder: "If you project a positive self-image, people will be more likely to see you as a positive, capable person." This phrase resonated with participants, emphasizing the significance of cultivating a positive mindset and actively countering negative self-talk.

In a solemn and prayerful atmosphere, the special assembly commenced with a Eucharistic celebration. The presiding celebrant, Fr. Tereso Campillo, Jr. OP, delivered an inspiring homily that resonated deeply with the attendees. His words focused on the transformative power of prayer, emphasizing the significance of entrusting our worries and burdens to the loving hands of God. He encouraged them to turn to prayer as a means of finding solace, strength, and hope. By placing their trust in God and offering their worries through heartfelt prayers, they could experience a profound sense of relief and peace.

On July 21, 2024, a momentous occasion unfolded as the inaugural Spina Bifida Philippines Youth Assembly convened. This event was a testament to the resilience and determination of a remarkable group of young individuals. Coming from different regions across Luzon, they were all united by a common bond – Spina Bifida.

The assembly marked a historic milestone for the Spina Bifida community in the Philippines. For the first time, young people affected by this condition had a platform to connect, share their experiences, and explore the unique challenges they face as they navigate life with Spina Bifida. The atmosphere was filled with a mix of excitement, anticipation, and a sense of shared purpose.

Thank you Teacher Pia for sharing your valuable insights on how we can empower our spina bifida youth by fostering self-advocacy skills, building self-confidence, and cultivating resilience.