Awareness to Advocacy

Knowing about Spina Bifida is just the first step. Real change happens when awareness turns into advocacy.

Awareness helps people understand. Advocacy creates action. Both are necessary to improve outcomes, access, and quality of life for the Spina Bifida community.

Awareness:

• Helps people understand what it means to live with Spina Bifida
• Educates the public about medical needs, accessibility, and daily challenges
• Builds empathy, visibility, and community support
• Reduces stigma through shared stories and education

Advocacy:

• Turns knowledge into meaningful action
• Pushes for policies that protect disability rights
• Secures funding for research, clinics, and services
• Expands access to healthcare, mobility devices, education, and public spaces
• Holds systems accountable when needs are overlooked

Awareness opens the door. Advocacy moves the system forward.

Be informed. Be involved. Be a voice for change in New York State.

Learn how you can make a difference by getting involved with SBANYS: https://sbanys.org/volunteer/