Meet our Board of Directors.

I have an internal drive to serve and help others, which fuels my desire to grow closer to my aunt and support the organization that means so much to her. Alongside this personal commitment, serving a term as the Board’s president has granted learning and professional development opportunities. I am constantly seeking new opportunities to learn and grow and giving back through SBAIA give me so much joy.

My Aunt Rhonda has spina bifida and she lives a wonderful, adventurous life. I want everyone to know they have the freedom and ability to achieve the same, no matter what.

Bliss was born in January of 2020. The few short months leading up to her birth were full of worry and grief, but having her in our arms made us truly take a step back and start to cherish the little things. Bliss is now a fiery 4-year-old who wins over the hearts of everyone who takes the time to get to know her. While her brother, Reid, instinctively serves as her protector, she is quick to let him know she doesn’t always need his help. Our goal has always been to raise a strong, independent girl with all the tools to advocate for herself. Being part of the Spina Bifida Association of Iowa has afforded our family countless opportunities to do just that.

To help create a better world and seek more resources and connections for my daughter as she transitions into adulthood.

I joined the board, because,  I love changing the lives of our members, and their families, for the better. Through the  programs we offer. To make their Spina Bifida journeys just a little bit easier

We need to create awareness everywhere we go of who we are and what assets we are in society, even facing a disability. I want to help people who live with spina bifida daily, from birth to adulthood, grow in understanding of how they can live their best lives. My hope is that we gain knowledge from one another, and I want to be able to help lessen the financial burden for us who deal with spina bifida. 

In February 2022, our 20-week ultrasound revealed that our daughter, Parker, had Spina Bifida. The diagnosis left us heartbroken and uncertain about the future. We sought information and saw countless specialists to understand her condition. Despite the challenges, Parker, now a thriving 2-year-old, has undergone five surgeries and brings immense joy to our lives. She is fiercely independent, loves animals and donuts, and always makes us laugh. Sharing our journey connects us with other families and offers hope amid challenges. Parker has taught us resilience and perspective, and brought us immense joy. We wouldn’t change a thing about our journey with her.