Spina Bifida - Bakersfield,CA

My oldest child was born with a tethered cord directly above his backside. I would go to a specialist. We are fornuate enough to live near one of the best places for neursurgery. We had my sons surgery at Beth Israel in NY City.
The doctor that preformed my son surgery was Dr Epstein. He has passed away but I would contact the office he previously worked with. I just looked up the phone number for you. Dr Eugene Flamm at ###-###-####.
My son had the operation he was about 3 1/2 mo. old. He is fine now but if its the same thing my son had time is of the essence. Its imperative to get an operation asap. Send me a private message if you have any more questions about my experience.

I had a good friend in college and he had spina bifida. They had told his mom that he'd have it, but couldn't tell her how severe it would be. Well, he was born and was very healthy, with just a mild form of spina bifida. He could walk, run, and you'd never know he had it. The only real limitation he had was that he could not ice skate backwards! (Which stunk for a guy who loved ice hockey) but all in all, not too bad! I would tell him that I didn't have spina bifida and I still can't even ice skate forward!!! =0)
Wishing you a healthy pregnancy and a wonderful healthy bundle of joy.

I've known people with severe spina bifida who had adaptive equipment and got along fine in life. I also know that modern medical prodeedures can often do miracles with this condition.
As someone else mentioned, it can also be a minor spina bifida that your child will hardly notice. I found out in my 40s that I have a very small spina bifida myself. An xray showed it on one Dr. appointment and the Dr. asked me about it.. to my complete surprise!

I don't know where you are located, but if you are in the Bay Area you could contact Parents Helping Parents ###-###-####. www.php.com They can provide lots of information and support and connect you with resources. There is also an excellent library where you might find some good information.

You must be so scared! I am so glad that you are using the forum for support, and that you are gathering information to help you make a decision. As much as you can, try to breath. It sounds simple, but when you are feeling overwhelmed, just taking a really deep breath and filling your lungs with air can help sooth you. I just wanted you to know that someone is thinking about you and sending you positive thoughts.