Spina Bifida Patient Stories
1 - 10 of 27
Siena’s Story: Fetal Surgery for Myelomeningocele

A life-altering experience — and life-changing care — at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s Richard D. Wood Jr. Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment inspired Siena’s family to ease the burden for others.
Christian’s Story: 22 Years After Fetal Surgery for Spina Bifida

In 2000, Christian had fetal surgery for spina bifida at CHOP. Today, he’s an EMT. Follow his journey.
Growing up with Spina Bifida: Valerie’s Story
Valerie, now 20 and pursuing a career in video game design, has been followed by CHOP’s Spina Bifida Program for most of her life.
Fetal Surgery for Myelomeningocele During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Henry’s Story

When Henry was prenatally diagnosed with spina bifida in the middle of the pandemic, his parents turned to CHOP’s fetal surgery team for help and hope.
Fetal Surgery During a Pandemic: Reagan's Story

Not many people can say they underwent fetal surgery during a pandemic, but Jasmin did it to give her daughter a better chance at a healthy life.
Maverick’s Spina Bifida Story

Specialists from CHOP’s Spina Bifida Clinic met Maverick and his family before he was even born and have supported them along their journey ever since.
From Central America to Philadelphia for Fetal Surgery for Spina Bifida: Eva’s Story

Eva’s parents came to CHOP from Central America so she could have fetal surgery for spina bifida with the world’s most experienced team.
Kian’s Story: Preparing the Whole Family for Fetal Surgery for Myelomeningocele

Kian’s parents credit Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for going above and beyond to support their entire family during their fetal surgery experience.
Fetal Surgery for Myelomeningocele: Trey and Emmett’s Story

Meet Trey and Emmett: They’re both from Ohio, they both have spina bifida, and they both had fetal surgery at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Fetal Surgery for Myelomeningocele: Kaitlyn’s Story

Diagnosed before birth with the most severe form of spina bifida, Kaitlyn underwent surgery while she was still in the womb. Now 5, she is happy and healthy.