Q:What’s your name?
A: Jessica Hyder
Q: What type of SB do you have?
A: Myelomeningocele L4-5
Where do you live?
A: Michigan
Q:How can we continue to follow your story?
A: On Facebook @Jessica Hyder
I was my parents firstborn child, after a handful of losses. In 1985, my parents were lucky to find out before my birth that I had spina bifida… But, I arrived fairly soon after that diagnosis. My parents were told not to expect much from me. I wouldn’t walk, would likely require a shunt and I wouldn’t attend school with my peers because of learning disabilities.
They were encouraged to abort, although my mom was nearing the end of pregnancy.
My family always encouraged me to do everything children my age were doing…And I did everything that my prognosis said I would never do. I began walking at age 4 with HKAFOs, and followed by AFO’s as I grew. I never did require that shunt. I went to school with my peers, graduated high school and attended college. I worked as a preschool teacher for nearly 10 years, and absolutely loved it.
There are definitely struggles with spina bifida, but I can’t say that my life hasn’t been worth living because of spina bifida. I have a family of my own now and love every minute that I get to see my children learn and grow. I enjoy nature and photography and seeing the beautiful world around me.
Jessica is living proof that you can live happy life with Spina Bifida! There is hope of having a great education, career, and family someday. So, regardless of what doctors tell you make sure you decide what is right for your family and know that no matter what it will be OK! Thanks again for sharing Jessica!
Spina-Beautiful 