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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

💤 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 […]

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!

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 […]

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 […]

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!

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 […]