Spina Bifida Awareness Month, observed in October, is a significant day dedicated to increasing public consciousness about Spina Bifida, a congenital disorder that affects the spine. This day holds a mirror to the collective efforts needed to support individuals and families grappling with this condition. The Latino community, in particular, has a higher prevalence of Spina Bifida, making awareness and early intervention crucial. This article delves into the impact of Spina Bifida in Latino communities and the importance of Spina Bifida Awareness Day.
Years ago, I met a young lady named Laurita Tellado who I worked with closely during my tenure at the Hispanicize Conference. Laurita is literally still the only person I know that champions Spina Bifida in the Latino Community. Her passion to keep pushing visibility for this is one of the things I admire most about her… please support in any way you can.
Laura “Laurita” Tellado was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. An only child, she was three years old when her parents moved the family to Orlando, Florida, where she has resided ever since.
Laurita is a freelance writer, editor, blogger, and voiceover artist, and the founder of Holdin’ Out for a Hero and Espresso con Leche blogs, as well as the Founder and President of The Laurita Spina Bifida Project, a non-profit whose mission is to promote positive awareness of spina bifida and unite spina bifida communities across the globe. In addition, Laurita is Editor of Hispanic PR Blog.
A public speaker since childhood, Laurita is often invited to weigh in on topics ranging from the role of social media in advocacy work, to issues impacting Latino health.
She holds a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Central Florida.
With undying support from her parents, Laurita founded the Laurita Spina Bifida Project to promote awareness of spina bifida and to collaborate with organizations serving the global spina bifida and hydrocephalus community to address their most pressing needs and connect them with resources.
Here is the vision statement for her organization;
The Laurita Spina Bifida Project, Inc. envisions a world in which all people who are affected by spina bifida, be it an individual with spina bifida, a parent, child, sibling, or caregiver, or supporter of the spina bifida community, can engage and interact openly with others in the community and connect based on their shared hope for increased awareness.
We envision a spina bifida community that is united, not fragmented, in which no one feels alone or isolated.
We envision the start of a national, and international, conversation centered around educating others about spina bifida.
We envision a world in which all people with spina bifida are treated with dignity and respect, and in which the medical community is poised to transition youth with spina bifida to adult-centered health care. We also envision a world where someone born with spina bifida may anticipate the same quality of life and medical care as their peers.
Finally, The LSBP, Inc., envisions a world in which individuals with spina bifida and their caregivers and supporters are connected to the resources they need, thereby thriving, leading healthy lives and maximizing their potential as active contributors to our society.
Laura “Laurita” Tellado was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. An only child, she was three years old when her parents moved the family to Orlando, Florida, where she has resided ever since.
Laurita is a freelance writer, editor, blogger, and voiceover artist, and the founder of Holdin’ Out for a Hero and Espresso con Leche blogs, as well as the Founder and President of The Laurita Spina Bifida Project, a non-profit whose mission is to promote positive awareness of spina bifida and unite spina bifida communities across the globe. In addition, Laurita is Editor of Hispanic PR Blog.
A public speaker since childhood, Laurita is often invited to weigh in on topics ranging from the role of social media in advocacy work, to issues impacting Latino health.
She holds a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Central Florida.
Prevalence in Latino Communities: Research indicates that Latino communities have a higher incidence of Spina Bifida compared to other ethnic groups. The reasons behind this higher prevalence are multifaceted, encompassing genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. Folic acid, a vital nutrient that significantly reduces the risk of Spina Bifida, is often found lacking in the diets of Latino women of childbearing age. This deficiency, coupled with limited access to prenatal care and early intervention services, exacerbates the situation.
Impact of Spina Bifida: Spina Bifida can lead to a range of physical and mental challenges, including mobility issues, learning difficulties, and chronic health problems. The emotional and financial toll on families is substantial, often requiring lifelong medical care and support services. In Latino communities, where family is a cornerstone of social structure, the impact reverberates through extended family networks.
The Significance of Awareness: Spina Bifida Awareness Day serves as a catalyst for change, promoting education and resources to prevent and manage this condition. By spotlighting the importance of prenatal care, folic acid supplementation, and early intervention, the day aims to reduce the incidence and impact of Spina Bifida in Latino communities. Moreover, it encourages community solidarity, advocacy, and support for affected families.
Community Initiatives: Various organizations and community groups are at the forefront of driving awareness and support in Latino communities. They provide educational resources, health care services, and a platform for families to share experiences and advice. Through community-driven initiatives, the veil of stigma and misinformation surrounding Spina Bifida can be lifted, paving the way for a more inclusive and informed society.
Spina Bifida Awareness Month is not just a month should be reflection but a call to action. The higher prevalence of Spina Bifida in Latino communities underscores the urgent need for targeted awareness campaigns, accessible healthcare services, and community support. Together, we can work towards a future where every child, regardless of ethnicity or condition, has the opportunity to thrive.
Follow Laurita on Twitter @LauritaTellado, and follow The Laurita Spina Bifida Project @TheLSBProject.