Hydrocephalus Canada

2nd Annual Celebrate Live Dream Walk, Wheel or Run 2km/5km June 8th, 2025
2025-06-08 09:30 - 14:00 (America/Toronto) | Downsview Park, Toronto, 70 Canuck Ave, North York, Ontario, M3K 2C5, Canada
Celebrate Live Dream Walk – June 8, 2025 | Downsview Park, Toronto
Following last year’s incredible success, Hydrocephalus Canada is thrilled to bring back the Celebrate Live Dream Walk—our 2km/5km walk, wheel, or run dedicated to raising awareness and support for the hydrocephalus and spina bifida communities across Canada!
This event is more than just a walk; it’s a powerful movement uniting individuals, families, and advocates in celebration of resilience, hope, and community. Because of YOU—our amazing participants and supporters—last year’s event made a lasting impact, and we can’t wait to do it all over again!
We are also excited to continue our partnership with the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) Canada—a national neurological health charity that shares our vision of raising funds and awareness while supporting individuals impacted by these complex conditions. Together, we are amplifying our impact, creating a stronger voice, and building a more inclusive future.
All proceeds from the walk help Hydrocephalus Canada continue providing essential programs, services, and resources for people at every stage of life—from children and families to adults and seniors.
Join us on June 8th at Downsview Park! Stay tuned for registration details and get ready to Celebrate, Live, and Dream with us once again.
See you at the finish line! 🚶‍♀️💙🎉

Chair Yoga with Ingrid Yoga! 🧘‍♀️✨ Join us on June 4 at 7:00 PM
2025-06-04 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Free Accessible Chair Yoga with Ingrid Yoga! 🧘‍♀️✨ Join us on June 4 at 7:00 PM for a relaxing and inclusive session designed for all abilities. Don’t miss out—register here! 💻🪑 https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/YgB23IjxQ3a1gAGwK5ExEw
#AccessibleYoga #ChairYoga #InclusiveWellness #YogaForAll #RelaxAndUnwind #MindfulMovement #YogaCommunity #AdaptiveYoga #WellnessForEveryone #GentleYoga #HydrocephalusSupport #SpinaBifidaSupport #RelaxTogether #YogaJourney #SupportAndCommunity #IngridYoga #FreeYoga #InclusiveWellness #AccessibleWellness #YogaJoy #NormalPressureHydrocephalus #NPHSupport #NPHAwareness #HydrocephalusAwareness #SpinaBifidaAwareness #YogaForHydrocephalus #YogaForSpinaBifida #EmpowerEachOther #YogaForEveryone

💤 Adult Hydrocephalus & NPH Support Group
2025-05-28 17:30 - 19:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Topic: The Importance of a Good Night’s Sleep—More Vital Than You Think!
Sleep impacts everything from cognition and mood to shunt function and balance. If you’re feeling foggy, fatigued, or simply unsure how much rest you truly need, this session is for you. Together we’ll explore:
🗓 Wednesday, May 28 • 5:30 – 7:00 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/pru7FAMJRQe1IXZF6NX5AQ
Join us to swap ideas, support one another, and start sleeping better—because you deserve real, restorative rest.

Ottawa Tasters Club Thursday, June 19th
2025-05-28 08:00 - 17:00 | Ontario
Thursday, June 19, 2025 Chuck’s Roadhouse 1100 Baxter Road Lunch: 12:00 PM To join the Ottawa Tasters Club & connect with others living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. RSVP to Mary Dufton at 613-698-8173 or maryjdufton@gmail.com to reserve your spot!

Hydrocephalus Canada Volunteer Orientation 2025 for Celebrate Live, Dream Walk May 27th 2025 7-8 p.m
2025-05-27 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
If you have registered as a Volunteer for out annual Celebrate Live, Dream Walk being held June 8th we ask you to join or Volunteer Orientation being held May 27th 2025 7-8 p.m Est hosted my Ingrid.
Join Here https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86795800790?pwd=[REDACTED]
Any questions please email iexner@hydrocephalus.ca

💤 Adult Spina Bifida Support Group
2025-05-22 17:30 - 18:30 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Topic: The Importance of Sleep—Are You Sleep Deprived?
Quality sleep fuels your immune system, mood, cognition, and overall well‑being. But chronic pain, mobility challenges, or nighttime catheter routines can steal precious rest. In this discussion‑focused session, we will share experiences and tips to getting a better nights sleep.
🗓 Thursday, May 22 • 5:30 – 7:00 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/stWfs2ktQ9W5pijDfOPkkQ
Let’s trade stories, troubleshoot challenges, and help each other reclaim a good night’s sleep!

🧘 Accessible Chair Yoga for All Ages & Abilities
2025-05-21 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Gentle, seated poses to improve flexibility, calm the mind, and support overall wellness—no floor work required.
🗓 Wednesday, May 21 • 7 – 8 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Wpifs5jVSLOIGm_23rN93A
Whether you live with hydrocephalus, spina bifida, mobility challenges, or simply prefer a chair‑based practice, this one‑hour class is for you. Bring a sturdy seat, wear comfy clothes, and join our certified instructor for a relaxing, inclusive session—no prior yoga experience necessary!
Let’s breathe, stretch, and strengthen—together.

Ottawa Tasters Club: May
2025-05-15 12:00 - 14:00 | Rockin’s Johnny’s Diner, 1309 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7L3
This month’s lunch will be held at a favorite place, Rockin Johnny’s Diner, 1309 Carling Ave. To join the Ottawa Tasters Club & connect with others living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. RSVP to Mary Dufton at 613-698-8173 or maryjdufton@gmail.com to reserve your spot!

Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group Meeting
2025-05-13 20:00 - 21:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
💤 Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group
Topic: The Importance of Sleep—for Everyone, Including the Chronically Ill Child
Good, restorative sleep is essential to growth, learning, and emotional balance—yet parents of children with hydrocephalus know how challenging consistent rest can be. Join fellow parents to explore and discuss.
🗓 Monday, May 13 • 8‑9 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/2obXSUYJQ8u3ffN68UOrBA
Bring your questions, stories, and practical tips. Together, we’ll help every family member—especially our kids—sleep better and thrive.

🧘 Accessible Chair Yoga for All Ages & Abilities
2025-05-07 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Gentle, seated poses to build flexibility, reduce stress, and support overall well‑being—no floor work required!
🗓 Wednesday, May 7 • 7 – 8 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/nRucoaVWTketVt4FynLmgQ
Join our certified yoga instructor for a one‑hour session designed especially for people with hydrocephalus, spina bifida, mobility challenges, or anyone who prefers to practice from a chair. All you need is a sturdy seat and comfy clothes—no prior experience necessary!
Let’s breathe, stretch, and strengthen—together.

🌦️ SHYNE Session – “Challenges with Weather Changes”
2025-05-01 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
For youth & young adults with hydrocephalus or spina bifida (ages 16 – 29)
Cold snaps, heat waves, humidity swings—weather shifts can trigger headaches, fatigue, shunt discomfort, and mobility hurdles. In this peer‑led SHYNE (Supporting Hydrocephalus & spina bifida Youth Network for Empowerment) meetup, we’ll swap real‑life strategies for things like:

Managing pressure‑related headaches and joint pain

Staying active (and safe) in extreme temperatures

Dressing smart: adaptive clothing and cooling/heating hacks

Mental‑health check‑ins when gloomy weather zaps motivation

🗓 Thursday, May 1 • 7 – 8 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/DIu2A60nSWyEhbRqv5zv2A
Grab a beverage, log on, and connect with others who “get it.” Let’s tackle weather‑related challenges—together!

Adult Hydrocephalus Support Group
2025-04-30 17:30 - 18:30 | ONLINE via ZOOM
💙 Adult Hydrocephalus Support Group – April 30 @ 5:30 PM EST 💙
Join us for the Adult Hydrocephalus Support Group on April 30th as we explore Functional Fitness & Exercise for individuals with hydrocephalus and shunts. Learn the do’s and don’ts to stay active, improve your strength, and promote overall well-being—safely. 💪
✅ Understand the importance of functional fitness✅ Learn exercises tailored for people with hydrocephalus✅ Connect with others in the hydrocephalus community
📅 Date: Tuesday, April 30⏰ Time: 5:30 PM EST📍 Register now: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/eTirAPQSTOu2BdyyoJtRqA
Take the first step toward better health and mobility. See you there! 💙 #Hydrocephalus #FunctionalFitness #ShuntSafety #WellnessJourney #AdultSupport #HydroWarrior #MoveBetterLiveBetter

🧠 Join the Movement to Prioritize Brain Health in Canada
2025-04-27 08:00 - 17:00 | Ontario
Over 10 million Canadians are living with neurological conditions, impacting every aspect of their lives and costing the Canadian economy an estimated $61 billion annually—more than cancer and cardiovascular disease combined.
The last comprehensive study, Mapping Connections, was conducted over a decade ago. With Canada’s aging and diversifying population, and in the wake of the pandemic, it’s imperative to update our understanding of neurological health.
Brain Health Matters, an initiative by Neurological Health Charities Canada, is calling on the federal government to invest in a renewed National Population-level Neurological Health Survey. This updated survey will inform and improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of neurological and mental health conditions, leading to better outcomes for patients and caregivers. ​
Take Action Today:

Visit: brainhealthmatters.ca

Send a Letter: Use our easy tool to email your local candidates, urging them to support this crucial investment.​brainhealthmatters.ca

Your voice can make a difference. Together, we can ensure that brain health is a national priority.​

Accessible Chair Yoga with Ingrid
2025-04-23 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Ready to yoga? Sign up for our free sessions with Ingrid Exner, certified yoga teacher & person with lived experience. Expect movements that work for every body, including yours! Sessions run twice a month on Wednesday evening from 7-8 pm ET. We encourage you to turn on your cameras so participants can see each other and experience the session together. Who should attend: Anyone looking for a relaxing activity to help manage stress and improve mental and physical health. All ages and abilities.
What to bring or wear: Loose fitting clothing, a comfortable chair with a flat back and a beverage.
Register HERE
Need more information on these classes? Contact info@hydrocephalus.ca

Help Researchers Improve Access to Psycho‑Educational Assessments
2025-04-22 08:00 - 2025-06-23 17:00 | Ontario
Help Researchers Improve Access to Psycho‑Educational Assessments
Are you a parent or caregiver who …**

Sought a psycho‑educational assessment for a child/teen in the last 10 years

Whose child attended an Ontario school at the timeIf yes, University of Toronto researchers would love to hear about your experience!

What’s Involved

15‑20 minute online survey (Qualtrics) about the process and any barriers you faced

Voluntary & anonymous—survey begins after you read a Letter of Information and give consent

👉 Start the survey now: https://qualtricsxmyn4mkq66j.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6YiQvEVIVoE0LZQ
Questions?

Florencia Saposnik, Student Principal Investigator – florencia.saposnik@mail.utoronto.ca

Dr. Linda Iwenofu, Faculty Supervisor – linda.iwenofu@utoronto.ca

This study has ethics clearance from the University of Toronto Research Ethics Board.
Please share with anyone who might qualify—your insights can help make assessments more accessible for Ontario families!

Adult Spina Bifida Support Group
2025-04-17 17:30 - 18:30 | ONLINE via ZOOM
💙 Stay Strong, Stay Mobile: Join Our Adult Spina Bifida Support Group! 💙
Maintaining your functional fitness is key to your health, mobility, and overall well-being. But what exactly is functional fitness, and how can it benefit you?
Join our Adult Spina Bifida Support Group to explore how movement, flexibility, and strength can support your daily life. Connect with others, share experiences, and gain practical fitness tips tailored for all abilities! 💪
📅 Next Session: Wednesday, April 17⏰ Time: 5:30 PM EST📍 Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/xwxB8dGST7Ohw5foO0GK4Q
Let’s move toward better health, together! 💙 #SpinaBifida #FunctionalFitness #AdaptiveExercise #WellnessForAll #HealthAndMobility #StrongerTogether

Ottawa Tasters Club April 17th
2025-04-17 12:00 - 14:00 | Big Rig, 1980 Ogilvie Road #115, Ottawa, Ontario, K1J 9L3
NEW DATE The Ottawa Taster’s Club will be meeting on Thursday, April 17, 2025, Big Rigg Brewery & Restaurant, 1980 Ogilvie Rd.. Join them for lunch at 1 2:00 PM, for a chance to connect and socialize with other individuals living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. RSVP to Mary Dufton by phone at 613-698-8173 or by email at maryjdufton@gmail.com to reserve your spot

Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group
2025-04-15 20:00 - 21:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Let’s Move Together! Functional Fitness for Everyday Life
Staying active is about more than just exercise—it’s about feeling strong, capable, and connected. Functional fitness helps you and your family maintain mobility, independence, and overall well-being in ways that fit your daily life.
Join our Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group for a friendly and supportive conversation about movement, flexibility, and strength. Share your experiences, learn from others, and pick up practical fitness tips for all abilities. Let’s support each other on this journey to better health! 💙💪
📅 Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group📆 April 15th at 8 PM🔗 Register HERE
We’d love to see you there! 💬✨

SHYNE First Social
2025-04-10 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Join us first SHYNE meeting for youth and young adults with hydrocephalus or spina bifida to connect socially. Each month, we will have a topic of discussion, plus other fun activities to take part in. If you are between the ages of 16 to 29, sign up today! We look forward to seeing you at our monthly virtual get together. https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ZpsaZyRuScaz2pj5mnHcYw#/registration

Webinar: Navigating Primary Care for Adults with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus
2025-04-10 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Navigating Primary Care for Adults with Spina Bifida and HydrocephalusDate & Time: April 10, 2025, 7:00 PM
Join us for an insightful webinar exploring the unique primary care considerations and aging challenges faced by adults living with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Learn effective strategies for preventative care, practical self-management tools, and advocacy tips to empower individuals in their healthcare journey.
We’re excited to welcome Sarah Ilori, a Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in specialized care for adults with developmental disabilities and care transitions. Known for her holistic approach to healthcare, Sarah has dedicated her career to addressing the full spectrum of primary care needs for her patients. As a nursing educator, she continues to raise awareness and advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Whether you’re a person living with spina bifida or hydrocephalus, a caregiver, or a healthcare professional, this webinar offers valuable insights and practical guidance. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding and enhance your approach to care!
Register now to secure your spot!

Accessible Chair Yoga with Ingrid
2025-04-09 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Sign up for our free sessions with Ingrid Exner, certified yoga teacher & person with lived experience. Expect movements that work for every body, including yours! Sessions run twice a month on Wednesday evening from 7-8 pm ET. We encourage you to turn on your cameras so participants can see each other and experience the session together.
Who should attend: Anyone looking for a relaxing activity to help manage stress and improve mental and physical health. All ages and abilities.
What to bring or wear: Loose fitting clothing, a comfortable chair with a flat back and a beverage.
Need more information on these classes? Contact info@hydrocephalus.ca Register Here

Toronto Tasters Club Social Group
2025-04-09 18:00 - 20:00 | East Side Mario’s, 1820 Ogilvie Road, Gloucester, Ontario, K1J 7P4, Canada
For a chance to join the Toronto Tasters Club and connect and socialize with other individuals living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. RSVP to Nicole Neeson by phone or text at 647-807-4348 to reserve your spot!
DATE: Wednesday, April 9th, 2025,
WHERE: East Side Mario’s 12 Lebovic, Toronto
TIME 6:00PM – 8:00PM
Don’t forget to book your Wheel-Trans HERE

Webinar: From Mundane to Mindful - Mindful Practices to Benefit YOU.
2025-03-27 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Join us on March 27 at 7 PM for a heartfelt and engaging session on mindfulness and its benefits for individuals living with hydrocephalus and spina bifida. Discover how mindfulness has helped others increase awareness and reduce pain. Learn practical ways to bring mindfulness into your daily life. We’ll share simple tips to improve communication, relationships, and focus, and you’ll have the opportunity to practice mindfulness alongside a guide and fellow community members.
Register here!
We look forward to seeing you there!

Adult Hydrocephalus Support Group
2025-03-26 17:30 - 18:30 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Adult Hydrocephalus Support Group Meeting📅 Date: March 26, 2025⏰ Time: 5:30 PM ET📍 Virtual Event
Good Mood & Healing Foods: Nutrition for Emotional, Mental & Physical Well-Being
Join us for a supportive conversation on the power of food in boosting mood, promoting healing, and enhancing overall health. Connect with others in the hydrocephalus community as we share experiences, tips, and strategies for nourishing both body and mind.
Register now to join the discussion!🔗 Click here to register

Accessible Yoga with Ingrid
2025-03-19 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Sign up for our free sessions with Ingrid Exner, certified yoga teacher & person with lived experience. Expect movements that work for every body, including yours! Sessions run twice a month on Wednesday evening from 7-8 pm ET.
We encourage you to turn on your cameras so participants can see each other and experience the session together.
Who should attend: Anyone looking for a relaxing activity to help manage stress and improve mental and physical health. All ages and abilities.
What to bring or wear: Loose fitting clothing, a comfortable chair with a flat back and a beverage.
Need more information on these classes? Contact info@hydrocephalus.ca Register Here: https://ow.ly/9cvK50UXYqi

Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group
2025-03-18 20:00 - 21:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
📅 Date: March 18, 2025⏰ Time: 8:00 PM ET📍 Virtual Event
Good Food, Good Mood: Healing and Mood-Boosting Foods Nutritious eating for you and your family.
Join parents from across Canada for an engaging and supportive discussion on the power of nutrition! Discover how healthy eating can positively impact you and your family’s well-being. Share experiences, exchange tips, and connect with other parents navigating the journey of raising a child with hydrocephalus—no matter their age.
All parents and caregivers are welcome!
Register HERE today to reserve your spot.

Adult Spina Bifida Support Group
2025-03-13 17:30 - 18:30 | ONLINE via ZOOM
📅 Date: March 13, 2025⏰ Time: 5:30 PM EST📍 Virtual Event
Healing and Good Mood Foods: Nutritious Eating for Spina Bifida
Join adults from across Canada for a welcoming and supportive conversation on the connection between nutrition and well-being. Learn how food can play a role in healing, energy levels, and mood, while sharing experiences, tips, and strategies for managing life with spina bifida.
Connect, learn, and support each other on this journey.
Register HERE to be part of the conversation!

Taster's Club Ottawa March
2025-03-13 12:00 - 14:00 | Lonestar Texas Grill, 780 Baseline RD, 780 Baseline Rd, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
The Ottawa Taster’s Club will be meeting on Thursday, March 13, 2025, Lonestar Texas Grill, 780 Baseline Rd. Join them for lunch at 1 2:00 PM, for a chance to connect and socialize with other individuals living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. RSVP to Mary Dufton by phone at 613-698-8173 or by email at maryjdufton@gmail.com to reserve your spot

Accessible Yoga with Ingrid
2025-03-05 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Ready to yoga? Sign up for our free sessions with Ingrid Exner, certified yoga teacher & person with lived experience. Expect movements that work for every body, including yours!
Sessions run twice a month on Wednesday evening from 7-8 pm ET. We encourage you to turn on your cameras so participants can see each other and experience the session together.
Who should attend: Anyone looking for a relaxing activity to help manage stress and improve mental and physical health.
All ages and abilities. What to bring or wear: Loose fitting clothing, a comfortable chair with a flat back and a beverage.
Need more information on these classes? Contact info@hydrocephalus.ca
Register Here: https://ow.ly/QcGm50UXYbV

Webinar: Treatment Options, Benefits, and Challenges for Managing Neurogenic Bladder in Individuals with Spina Bifida
2025-01-30 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
We are excited to invite you to our upcoming partnered webinar, “Treatment Options, Benefits, and Challenges for Managing Neurogenic Bladder in Individuals with Spina Bifida,” hosted by Sophie Leduc. This informative session will take place on January 30 at 7pm EST.
Discover valuable insights into the latest treatment options, understand the benefits, and navigate the challenges of managing neurogenic bladder.
Don’t miss this opportunity—register here now!
