Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) and the Spina Bifida Association of Northeastern New York (SBANENY) are calling on all New Yorkers to support Spina Bifida Awareness Month this October. Spina Bifida occurs when the spinal column fails to form or close properly in the first month of pregnancy resulting in damage to the spinal column. There are an estimated 10,000 New Yorkers living with Spina Bifida for whom health and support services are critical to their well-being and improving their quality of life. 

“Medical bills for children born with Spina Bifida are 13 times higher than average and the average total lifetime cost to society for many infants born with Spina Bifida may well exceed one million dollars,” said McDonough. “I encourage all New Yorkers to participate in Spina Bifida Awareness Month by researching this condition, and if possible helping one of the great organizations that provides assistance for families of children with Spina Bifida.”

McDonough currently sponsors Assembly Resolution No. 393, recognizing October as Spina Bifida Awareness Month. Those interested in helping SBANENY can check out its web page.

Other ways people can celebrate this special community include posting about Spina Bifida or wearing teal on October 25 to show your support for World Spina Bifida Day.