If you know me then you probably know I don’t often open up about a lot of personal things to do with daily life, I just get on with it, however this is something I would like to touch base on.

As much as I feel I could’ve chosen a charity like MIND or another mental health charity (which means a lot to me too for other reasons) this particular charity means a lot to not just only me but my dad, who was born with Spina Bifida (in the 60’s) and has lived with it and struggled to this day, putting aside the fact that he was told from a young age that he probably wouldn’t see past teen hood, it’s such a shame that back when he was born they didn’t have the information, the help and even the charities like they do today, so he was to live in Constant fear as he was always given a ‘worst case scenario’ and a ‘you can’t do this, you can’t do that’ explaining why my dad has always set out to do the things he wants and doesn’t let anyone get in his way.

So I know my dad has lived life the way he wanted to, always having the threat of death being at your door must be a monumental thing to have to get your head round on a daily basis, and some of the ridiculous things he’s told me (and my mates) really makes me appreciate his outlook on living with Spina Bifida.

So this goes out to my dad, and anyone else who suffers from ‘Spina Bifida &/or Hydrocephalus’ as life is too short to worry about stuff that doesn’t matter! There is always a bigger picture, and we all want to be a part of it! 

Thank you for reading this far! 

If you have... any donation will be highly appreciated.

100% of donations will be going directly to Shine.

Hopefully we can give back a little bit of hope, drive and determination to those who need it the most!

Sorry to babble on...

I’m sure some of you have, and haven’t heard of Spina Bifida, if you haven’t please take 5 mins to google what the condition is and just have a read about the condition.

Thank you so much again!!

Charly Foulkes

BULLY

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Shine are working hard to overcome the challenges COVID-19 has brought by stepping in to alleviate the pressure on the NHS and social care system. We're supporting our community of individuals with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus to ensure they have access to the information they require, and the services they need - now, and in the future. However.... We are almost entirely funded by the generosity of the general public, and without your support, we couldnt continue to be there for you.£5 could pay for... A couple of coffees, OR a new membership pack to help someone learn about their condition.£30 could pay for... A takeaway treat, OR a one hour telephone call with one of our health experts. Shine received over 2000 health related calls last year.£90 could pay for... Your familys travel for a week, OR an advice session with one of our support workers, who last year handled more than 5000 enquiries.Please donate to help us continue providing this life-line of support.