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

Prenatal Closure & Postnatal Closure
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / April 13, 2026

Prenatal Closure & Postnatal Closure

Learning your baby has Spina Bifida can feel like a lot to take in, but there are clear paths forward....

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After a Spina Bifida Diagnosis
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / April 13, 2026

After a Spina Bifida Diagnosis

A Spina Bifida diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it is not the end of the story. Suddenly, there is so...

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Spina Bifida Lifespan Outlook
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / April 13, 2026

Spina Bifida Lifespan Outlook

Hearing “Spina Bifida” can raise questions about the future — especially about lifespan. The good news: advancements in healthcare have...

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Lifelong Health Considerations for Women with Spina Bifida
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / April 13, 2026

Lifelong Health Considerations for Women with Spina Bifida

Women with Spina Bifida experience distinct health considerations throughout their lives, including puberty, reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. These...

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Birth Planning for Women with Spina Bifida
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / April 13, 2026

Birth Planning for Women with Spina Bifida

Many people expect labor to feel the same for every woman, but women with Spina Bifida may experience it differently....

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Early Intervention
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / April 13, 2026

Early Intervention

For infants with Spina Bifida, early intervention services provide the building blocks for growth, independence, and confidence. From therapy to...

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Prenatal Counseling
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / April 13, 2026

Prenatal Counseling

A prenatal diagnosis of Spina Bifida is an important moment, and families should not navigate it alone. Prenatal counseling brings...

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Mental Health Support for Expectant Mothers
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / April 13, 2026

Mental Health Support for Expectant Mothers

Expecting a baby with Spina Bifida can feel overwhelming at times, and that’s okay. You don’t have to navigate it...

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Care After Birth for Babies with Spina Bifida
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / April 13, 2026

Care After Birth for Babies with Spina Bifida

After birth, babies with Spina Bifida receive care tailored to their specific needs. Most babies are monitored in the NICU,...

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Chronic Pain in Women with Spina Bifida
By Spina Bifida Association of NYS / April 13, 2026

Chronic Pain in Women with Spina Bifida

Women with Spina Bifida experience chronic pain related to mobility challenges, spinal, and other physical health concerns. Yet too often,...

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