The last year has been tough for my wife and I; losing two separate pregnancies due to the diagnosis of severe open spina bifida at the 16/17 week mark. Although each time felt different, they both came as a complete shock but through charities such as Shine, we were able to educate ourselves on the condition to make an informed decision. Due to severity of the cases, we took the impossible decision to terminate the pregnancies but in addition to providing lots of information, charities such as Shine also provide specialist support from before birth and throughout the life of anyone living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus, as well as to parents, families, carers and professional care staff. 

Shine enables people to get the best out of life. Everything they do is made possible by generous supporters. Your support helps individuals and families in local communities across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Every donation has the potential for profound impact. THANK YOU for supporting Shine!