Membership to an association is encouraged for all those with spina bifida, their families, carers and health workers.

Benefits include personal support, information on a range of services and a regular newsletter.

To become a member, visit The Australian Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association website. Click on your state for local contact details and instructions for joining.

The Spina Bifida Foundation of Victoria (SBFV) is an incorporated association made up of the Spina Bifida Association of Victoria, the Monash Medical Centre and the Victorian Chidren's Hospital. It is dedicated to fund raising for projects to directly assist people with spina bifida. For example, the SBFV has, with the RACGP, managed this continence manuals project. In 2002 the SBFV will conduct:

• An adults independence support program (helping young adults become and stay independent)
• An online computer skills and e-commerce introduction program (helping young adults develop what are now key skills for work in the new millenium, especially for those with reduced mobility)
•Assist the RCH fund its International Myelosdysplasia Research •Project (the RCH has been involved for over 20 years with other overseas spina bifida clinics in collecting data on muscle growth and function in spina bifida. The results feed into better leg and foot surgery)

You can find out more about and join the SBF at www.sbav.org.au/foundation.htm

You can also make a donation.