Finding Support

Having a child with a birth defect can affect the entire family. It might be helpful to talk with families or other people who are affected by the same type of birth defect as you or your family member. Other people might have learned how to address some concerns and questions you have. Often, they can give you advice about good resources and share what worked best for them. Talking with other people may also provide emotional support and hope for the future.

Remember that the choices of one family might not be best for another family, so it’s important to understand all options and discuss them with a health care provider.

There are many ways to connect with other people, including in person, on the Internet or by telephone. The following sources can help you get started:

Health Care Providers

The person’s health care provider is one of the most reliable sources for contact information about support groups. The health care provider could be a primary care physician, genetic counselor, neurologist, neurosurgeon, orthopedist, developmental pediatrician, or a physical or occupational therapist. Hospitals in your area might also sponsor support groups.

National and Community Organizations

A national organization that focuses on the specific birth defect, such as Spina Bifida Association, might exist. Most national organizations have state or local branches, such as Spina Bifida Association of Georgia. State or local area March of Dimes offices could also be helpful. United Way offices may be able to point out resources. Look in the phone book or on the Internet for phone numbers and addresses.

The following organizations have information about support groups

The Arc
The Arc website provides information to help children and families with Autism, Down syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, and many other intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc is an advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing support and services for affected children and families.

Brave Kids
The Brave Kids website has an online resource for children with special needs and their families. There are message boards, resources, and games.

The Compassionate Friends
The Compassionate Friends website offers help to families in dealing with grief following the death of a child of any age.

Family Voices
Family Voices is an organization promoting quality health care for all children and youth, particularly those with special health care needs.

The Father’s Network
The Fathers Network provides information and resources to help families raising children with special health care needs and developmental disabilities.

March of Dimes
MOD works to assure that babies are born healthy. Through research, outreach, education, and advocacy, MOD addresses issues such as prematurity, low birth weight, and birth defects.

Information about specific birth defects or genetic conditions

American Heart Association
The American Heart Association website on congenital heart defects provides information on specific defects, describes diagnosis and treatment options, and links families with tools and resources.

Cleft Palate Foundation
The Cleft Palate Foundation (CPF) web site has a section for patients and families, including fact sheets, frequently asked questions, and information packets. It also houses videos showing parents how to feed affected children and provides links to team care and other resources.

Genetic Alliance
The Genetic Alliance website has a disease index database and genetic resources.

National Down Syndrome Society
The National Down Syndrome Society is an organization that provides information and resources for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Their website contains information about advocacy, education, research and support services, including resources for new or expecting parents.

National Organization for Rare Diseases
The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) has resources on rare diseases, referrals, and other support services for affected families.

Spina Bifida Association
The Spina Bifida Association (SBA) website provides the latest information and research on spina bifida. The site also has commonly asked questions, fact sheets, and resources including information about education, advocacy, research, and services.

University of Kansas Medical Center, Genetics
The Genetic and Rare Conditions site has information and support group listing for genetic conditions and birth defects.