Illinois Spina Bifida Association

09/10/2024

Congratulations Tatyana McFadden!

HISTORY MADE 👏

Tatyana McFadden is now the most decorated U.S. Paralympic track and field athlete in history with 21 medals!

09/10/2024

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) wants to hear about your experience with HealthChoice Illinois managed care.

The agency is holding in-person and virtual listening sessions to gather feedback from HealthChoice Illinois customers, providers, advocates and other stakeholders.

You can share your experiences, suggest improvements and also provide written feedback through an online form.

Most Medicaid customers are part of HealthChoice Illinois. You’re a HealthChoice Illinois customer if you selected a managed care organization after you joined Medicaid.

HFS wants to know:

🔹 What works well for you with HealthChoice Illinois?

🔹 Where do you see opportunities to improve?

🔹 How else can HFS and HealthChoice Illinois meet your needs?

The in-person listening session schedule is:

Chicago: Thursday, Sept. 12, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the College of Pharmacy, 833 S. Wood St., Room 134-3

Springfield: Tuesday, Sept. 17, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the John Block Building Auditorium, Illinois Department of Agriculture, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., on the Illinois State Fairgrounds at Gate 11

Find more details and other ways you can share your feedback at https://zurl.co/TBxk.

09/09/2024

An executive functioning tip from Executive Functioning Toolbox.

Try the "5-Minute Task Rule."

When you’re feeling overwhelmed by a long to-do list or just can’t seem to get started, break it down by committing to just 5 minutes of any task. It’s not about finishing the whole thing—just start. Set a timer for 5 minutes and choose a simple task, like tidying up one small area or writing the first sentence of an email.

Often, once you begin, momentum builds and you’ll find it easier to keep going. But even if you don’t, you’ve still made progress in those 5 minutes, which can boost your sense of accomplishment and reduce that initial overwhelm. This hack helps shift your brain from a state of paralysis to action, making it easier to tackle the rest of your day.

Would this work for you??

09/09/2024

Does anyone have a hematologist for adults in the Chicagoland area they like who takes Medicare - please message ISBA or email [email protected]. Thanks!

09/09/2024

🌟 Meet Team Lucas🌟

Team Lucas is excited to take on their first Chicago Marathon in honor of their cousin/nephew Quinn, who is truly the best! Quinn brings joy to us every day with his “joke of the day” club, thoughtful text check-ins, endless encouragements, and the incredible way he supports everyone in his community.

Inspired by Aunt Lori, who has run several marathons for Spina Bifida awareness, other family members have joined her in raising funds for the Illinois Spina Bifida Association. Team Lucas’s goal is to raise $5,500!

Join us in supporting them and help them reach their goal: Donate here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/team/74c8a3f4-cd96-4c3c-a9b7-b30d0f9c8739

Let’s cheer on Team Lucas and make a difference together! 🏃‍♂️💙

09/03/2024

🏃‍♂️ Meet the "Chicago Marathon Crew!" 🏃‍♂

Christian Saenz was a dedicated track and cross-country athlete, but as he got older, he stepped away from running. However, his passion for the sport never faded. Eventually, Christian reconnected with a friend on this team, Michael Plummer. Through their conversations about running and athletics, and his connection to Jessica Zellner, he found new inspiration to join the Chicago Marathon and run for the Illinois Spina Bifida Association (ISBA)! 🌟

Support Christian and the rest of the team by donating here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/fundraising/01f04a97-e401-4e3e-951e-83971b7ae61a

Follow along on Chris journey to the marathon on Instagram! 🏅

09/03/2024

🌟 Meet the "Chicago Marathon Crew!" 🌟

Growing up as a competitive swimmer, Stephanie never imagined she would become a passionate runner. But in March 2013, her friend Jessica called and asked if she would run the 2013 Chicago Marathon for the Illinois Spina Bifida Association (ISBA). That call changed everything.

This year marks Stephanie’s 11th consecutive Chicago Marathon as a part of Team ISBA and her 29th marathon overall! 🏃‍♀️💪

Through her friendship with Jessica, whose daughter has spina bifida, Stephanie has seen firsthand how impactful donations and fundraising can be in supporting those living with spina bifida. She is proud to support such a phenomenal organization year after year. 💙

In addition to her dedication to ISBA, Stephanie has had the privilege of running marathons across the U.S. and around the world, raising awareness for many incredible causes. This year, she completed her second six-star journey, finishing all 6 World Marathon Major races for the second time (Chicago, Boston, New York City, London, Berlin, Tokyo). 🌍🏅

Stephanie is excited to continue running races globally and supporting important causes along the way. Join us in cheering her on as she prepares for the Chicago Marathon! 🥳👏

09/02/2024

🏃‍♂️ Marathon Monday Madness! 🏃‍♀️

The Chicago Marathon Crew first came together in the fall of 2023, rallying around Mike as he prepared to take on the Wasatch 100—a grueling 100-mile trail race through the breathtaking mountains of Northern Utah, near Salt Lake City. Along the way, Stephanie, Joe, and Mike became fast friends over shared stories of life’s adventures and a mutual love for running.

Having each run the Chicago Marathon multiple times in support of the Illinois Spina Bifida Association (ISBA), they are thrilled to welcome new teammates Christian, Jack, and Jules to their little "team within a team" this year! Together, they're aiming to raise even more funds for ISBA!

The Chicago Marathon Crew is so excited for this year's race and can't wait to share all that Chicago has to offer, especially during Marathon Weekend! 🏙️🎉

Let's go, team! 💪

08/31/2024

Cheer on Team USA at Spina Bifida Watch Parties! Register here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdGHl_qS6SJ8APS_WsgfKlGtMC8UcD587EelewKSL7FSKUVSQ/viewform

08/30/2024

Via Executive Functioning Toolbox

This is great!

Image: Renewed Hope Parenting

08/28/2024

ISBA is proud to partner with other SBAs nationwide to cheer on Team USA at Paralympic Games watch parties. Register here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdGHl_qS6SJ8APS_WsgfKlGtMC8UcD587EelewKSL7FSKUVSQ/viewform

08/28/2024

Today is the opening ceremony of the Paralympics in Paris!

Find out more about where to watch the Paralympic Games when they kick off in August 2024.

08/28/2024

Live Webinar today at noon: It’s About Time! Planning, Prioritizing, and Time-Management Solutions for Students
Click on the link for more info and to register.
Via ADDitude

08/26/2024

🌟Marathon Madness 🌟Meet Jaron: From Cross Country to Marathon Dreams!

Jaron, a dedicated Cross Country and Track runner from his high school and college days, is preparing for his first marathon! After taking a break from running for several years, he decided to reconnect with his running roots two years ago to improve his health and well-being. Despite vowing never to run a marathon in his younger years, he's now on a mission to achieve just that.

Grateful to have remained injury-free during his training, Jaron is excited to continue shedding the extra weight he gained during his hiatus. As a father to a spirited 3-year-old boy and an Urgent Care Supervisor at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Jaron is balancing his responsibilities with his passion for running.

He’s running this marathon to support Illinois Spina Bifida, aiming to raise funds that will provide vital support to children in need. With his mileage increasing and times improving, Jaron hopes to finish his first marathon in just under 4 hours.

Join us in supporting Jaron's fundraising journey on Zeffy: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/peer-to-peer/5b936f8e-0019-4421-b42f-840ce4dde523

08/19/2024

Marathon Monday Madness! 🏃‍♂️Meet Joe, a veteran distance runner on a mission!

Joe is gearing up for his second marathon after an impressive debut in 2008, where he shattered the 3-hour barrier with a time of 2:53:41. Unfortunately, soon after, injuries sidelined him, and he was diagnosed with Degenerative Disc Disease at just 24, causing phantom pain along his left leg.

Fast forward to today: after years of managing his condition and with the help of physical therapy, Joe's pain has significantly diminished. Now, after more than 8 years away from consistent running, he’s lacing up his shoes for the 2024 Chicago Marathon!

This time, Joe is running with a purpose—to raise awareness for the Illinois Spina Bifida Association (ISBA). The mission of ISBA resonates deeply with Joe due to his own battles with lower spine challenges. His training is paying off; he recently completed a half-marathon in 1:38:12 and has set a new goal to break 3 hours and 20 minutes in the marathon.

Joe is proud to represent ISBA, raising awareness to better support those living with spina bifida. Let’s cheer him on as he takes on this incredible challenge! 👏

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/fundraising/a3dfbb23-bda3-492f-81bd-7c56ee310e31

08/16/2024

*UPDATE*

"August 16, 10:00 AM - Effective immediately and until further notice, Metra and CTA will waive fares for ADA paratransit passengers in the City of Chicago. Please show your ADA Paratransit Card and inform the operator/conductor that you are a Pace ADA paratransit passenger to ride these services free of charge. Do not tap your card on the Ventra reader. "

"Pace has been informed by SCR that their employees have gone on strike. Service will continue to be provided, but this will likely impact service in the City of Chicago, resulting in limited capacity and service delays ... Effective immediately and until further notice, Metra and CTA will waive fares for ADA paratransit passengers in the City of Chicago." Read more at:

ADA Paratransit Service Delays in Chicago Article Date Issued Fri, 08/16/2024 Pace has been informed by SCR that their employees have gone on strike. Service will continue to be provided, but this will likely impact service in the City of Chicago, resulting in limited capacity and service delays. If...

08/16/2024

08/16/2024

Or do it the night before to save time in the morning.
Via ADDitude

Create a backpack checklist for your child to follow and tick off each morning before school. additu.de/2s

08/14/2024

Enjoy climbing and kayaking while you explore the Preserves of Cook County in this program specially designed for individuals with a primary physical disability or visual impairment.

08/13/2024

13th Beyond the Waters Beach Party promises to be a fun and memorable day for all! It is a FREE beach day with adaptive kayaking, hand cycling, beach activities, DJ entertainment, BBQ, and more! It will be on August 25, 2024, from 12 pm to 5 pm at Osterman Beach (5800 North Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60640). The beach is accessible, and Osterman’s website says that beach wheelchairs are available upon request at the lifeguard office.

Get ready for the ultimate inclusive beach party experience in 2024 - we're taking the fun beyond the waters!

08/13/2024

Check out some organizing tips as Back to School approaches. Via ADDitude

Take a photo of your child's organized locker or bedroom so they know what "clean" looks like. additu.de/1ba

08/13/2024

A major player in home furnishings is expanding its collection of products designed to better accommodate people with disabilities.

08/12/2024

Marathon Monday Madness! 🏃‍♂️ Get ready to cheer on the incredible Ali Abdollahzadeh as he laces up for his third Chicago Marathon! This isn't just any race; Ali's on a mission to crush his personal record.

With a relentless training regimen combining running, CrossFit, swimming, and even hockey, Ali has transformed himself into a lean, mean, marathon machine. Remember that kid who stunned everyone with a 3:47 marathon at just 17? Yeah, that's him. And now, fueled by one-plus months of intermittent fasting (which has already shed 21 pounds!), he's more determined than ever.

Beyond the personal triumph, Ali is running for a cause close to his heart. He's passionate about supporting an amazing organization that works tirelessly to improve the quality of life of children, adults, and families living with spina bifida. By taking on this monumental challenge, he's not only pushing his physical limits but also inspiring others to believe that with dedication, anything is possible.

Let's rally behind Ali as he hits the pavement today! Show him some love and support as he strives for greatness.

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/fundraising/e7f87f9a-2fd3-4b0f-85f5-f376a71e4bce

08/10/2024

Live Free Webinar on August 14: Back-to-School Toolkit: Proven Systems for Solving Disorganization, Procrastination, and Missed Deadlines
Via ADDitude

https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/organization-system-back-to-school-adhd

08/06/2024

Where to watch the upcoming Paralympics ...

Find out more about where to watch the Paralympic Games when they kick off in August 2024.

08/05/2024

🏃‍♂️🎉 Happy Marathon Monday! 🎉🏃‍♂️

Meet Matt, a passionate runner who is tackling his first marathon today! 🏅 After being sidelined by injuries and switching sports in college, Matt is now returning to his first love—running. About 20 years later, he's back on the track with renewed determination and a great cause in mind.

Matt is running to raise awareness and support for the Illinois Spina Bifida Association, a wonderful organization that has brought hope and assistance to many families in Illinois. By taking on this marathon, Matt aims to show that with motivation and dedication, anyone can achieve their goals. 🏃‍♂️💪

Not only is Matt fulfilling a bucket list dream, but he's also improving his overall health with all the training. We're so proud of Matt and grateful for his incredible support!

Join us in cheering for Matt as he crosses the finish line and makes a difference for our community. 🎉🙌

Donate to Matt here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/fundraising/c546c25d-91da-460b-a362-96924e7ff8d6

08/05/2024

The nation's largest retailer is planning to provide special carts at every one of its locations designed to alleviate the need for caregivers to push both a cart and a wheelchair while shopping.