About Us

Spina Bifida Indiana (or SBIND, pronounced es-bIEnd) serves those with Spina Bifida, their families and others interested in this birth defect. We do this through programs such as financial medical assistance, camp and post-secondary education scholarships, support groups, and connection to resources and research.

Our mission is to support, empower and connect all those impacted by Spina Bifida in Indiana.

SBIND traces its beginnings to the late 1970s when a group of parents of children with Spina Bifida got together and formed a support group in Indianapolis. Wanting to learn more about the condition that their children were born with, they invited speakers to discuss topics related to this birth defect. They wanted to know how to best advocate for their children. The group grew through the years and its reach went beyond central Indiana to encompass the state.

Today, we work to meet the ever changing needs of those affected by Spina Bifida. This comes at a time of new medical breakthroughs that contribute to longer, meaningful lives into adulthood for those with SB. As we pivot to meet not only the needs of children with SB and their families, we turn our eyes and efforts to include those who have lived into adulthood. We continue to serve as an advocate for all touched by Spina Bifida.

Board of Directors

• Chair - Christine Exline

• Chair-Elect - Courtney Wallace

• Past Chair - Julie Benson

• Secretary - Pat Wyman

• Treasurer - Alex Homan

• Member-at-Large - Diana Albright

• Member-at-Large - Ann Hannan

• Member-at-Large - Stephanie Higginbotham

• Member-at-Large - Kathy Perry

Meetings

Third Tuesday of the odd months 7 p.m.

Currently Virtual

Virtual Annual Meeting

Second Tuesday in December at 7 p.m.