October 2011 - Shine Cymru

The BBC Wales Charity Message for October 2011 was on behalf of Shine Cymru. There were several television features scheduled across BBC 1 Wales and BBC2 Wales during the week beginning 22 October 2011.

About the Charity

Shine Cymru (Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus, Information, Networking, Equality) works to support, improve and celebrate the lives of people living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus.

Each year in the UK, 900 pregnancies are affected by Neural Tube Defects, defects in the brain and spinal cord, which result in spina bifida. Hydrocephalus is often present alongside spina bifida, but can occur without spina bifida, and is a failure of fluid to drain from around the brain). It is estimated that 1 in 1000 babies are born with congenital hydrocephalus.

Shine Cymru Family Fun Day

Shine Cymru offers supports when parents-to-be have received a diagnosis of spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. They are available throughout the disabled person's life to provide advice and guidance: when medical/surgical intervention is required; in the education system; when seeking employment; and assisting with housing and benefit issues. They enable and empower individuals to achieve maximum independence and quality of life and provide professionals around them with specific information to enhance their knowledge.

The charity also co-ordinates a small network of local activities and social events.

Shine Cymru supports the Go Folic! Campaign which calls on all women who might become pregnant to take folic acid each day, as recommended by the NHS because it helps prevent birth defects such as spina bifida.