Guest Author - Jessica Steinmetz

Spina Bifida is the leading birth defect that causes a disability. It is caused by a neural tube defect that prevents the spinal column from completely closing. This occurs during the first month of pregnancy.

Every case of Spina Bifida is different. Some people are hardly affected by the disability and others it affects their entire life. In some of the more severe cases of Spina Bifida, people are left with Hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus is when there is excess water on the brain.

When someone has Hydrocephalus they will need a shunt. A shunt is a device that flushes water off the brain and out of the body. The shunt remains in their body their entire life. Shunts do not cause any pain. They are a necessity when you have hydrocephalus or the person might die.

People with Spina Bifida might also have paralysis (full or partial,) bladder/bowel problems, latex allergy, sexual problems, and sometimes learning challenges.

Some people with Spina Bifida are able to walk. They sometimes use canes, crutches, or walkers. Other times, they might need to use a wheelchair. In most cases, people with the disability have full use of their upper body. They are usually very independent.

People with Spina Bifida live very normal lives. I know many people with the disability and they lead great lives. Despite challenges, people with Spina Bifida hold careers and have families. Having the disability is not horrific. It is just one aspect of life to have to adapt.

Unfortunately, many doctors urge women who are pregnant with a baby with Spina Bifida to abort. They might believe that they are doing the person with the disability a favor. This is not true. Everyone has challenges and sometimes our challenges make life a bit sweeter. Many of my very best friends are successful and happy and have this disability. They should have a right to live as anyone else.