News to Use

SBANYS Featured on WNYT News Channel 13

The Spina Bifida Association of New York State was featured on WNYT News Channel 13 in early February, highlighting ongoing advocacy efforts to improve the lives of individuals impacted by Spina Bifida.

The feature followed a press conference at the New York State Capitol in Albany, where SBANYS leaders called on lawmakers to include $250,000 in the state budget to expand programs and services for the Spina Bifida community. During the interview, Executive Director Julia Duff and Board Member Joe Slaninka discussed the organization’s mission and the impact of this proposed funding on families across New York State.

From Awareness to Action: Turing Your Voice into Legislative Change

This session focuses on turning awareness into practical advocacy. Featuring Julia Duff, Executive Director of the Spina Bifida Association of New York State, and Cliff Perez, it includes guidance on staying informed, building connections, and developing structured efforts that can lead to legislative progress.

Blogs

Understanding the Increased Risk of Depression and Anxiety in Individuals with Spina Bifida
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / June 12, 2026

Understanding the Increased Risk of Depression and Anxiety in Individuals with Spina Bifida

Did you know that having Spina Bifida can increase the risk of depression and anxiety? Research shows that 25% to 45%...

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Depression vs. Anxiety: What People with Spina Bifida Need to Know
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / June 12, 2026

Depression vs. Anxiety: What People with Spina Bifida Need to Know

Depression and anxiety are often talked about together, but they are not the same. For people with Spina Bifida, understanding...

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Understanding Everyday Emotions vs. Clinical Depression
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / June 12, 2026

Understanding Everyday Emotions vs. Clinical Depression

Is it normal to feel sad? Yes. However, when does it become something more? For individuals with Spina Bifida, it...

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Mental Health in Spina Bifida: Understanding the Whole Picture
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / June 12, 2026

Mental Health in Spina Bifida: Understanding the Whole Picture

Mental health is multi-layered. For individuals with Spina Bifida, mental health is shaped by many connected factors that work together...

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Understanding How Mental Health Shapes Quality of Life in Spina Bifida
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / June 12, 2026

Understanding How Mental Health Shapes Quality of Life in Spina Bifida

Quality of life is about more than physical health. Mental health plays a central role in how individuals with Spina...

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Voices of the Spina Bifida Community: Thomas’ Story

Voices of the Spina Bifida Community: Thomas’ Story

Meet Thomas In honor of National Get Caught Reading Month, we’re highlighting an author in our community. Thomas is 54...

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What Parents Hear at Diagnosis and What They Don’t

What Parents Hear at Diagnosis and What They Don’t

At diagnosis, many parents are told what their child might not do. When families hear Spina Bifida, conversations may center around surgery, mobility...

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Understanding Meningocele: How It Differs from Myelomeningocele

Understanding Meningocele: How It Differs from Myelomeningocele

Meningocele is a type of Spina Bifida where a sac of fluid can be seen on a baby’s spine. The...

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How Spina Bifida Affects the Body: From Mobility to Daily Functions

How Spina Bifida Affects the Body: From Mobility to Daily Functions

How does Spina Bifida affect the body? In individuals with Myelomeningocele, the level of nerve involvement along the spine can impact how...

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Why Diagnosis Looks Different Across Types of Spina Bifida

Why Diagnosis Looks Different Across Types of Spina Bifida

Did you know Spina Bifida can be diagnosed at different times in life? Some forms, like Myelomeningocele and Meningocele, are often...

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