The Spanish Federation of Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Associations (FEBHI) has reached 45 years of trajectory in defending the rights of this group. On the occasion of this anniversary, its president, Carmen Gil, has reaffirmed that the entity will continue "working so that full inclusion, personal autonomy, and equality of opportunities are a daily reality for all people with spina bifida and related disabilities."
Gil has emphasized that "turning 45 years means not only looking back to recognize the effort of so many families, professionals, and associations that paved the way, but also reaffirming our commitment to the future." The organization began its journey in 1980 and was registered in the National Registry of Associations in July 1981.
The president has recalled that FEBHI, declared of "Public Utility" in 2011 and made up of 12 territorial associations, aims to "transform the reality of people with this congenital malformation." Its work has been endorsed with various excellence distinctions, including the three stars of the "Recognition for Management and Social Commitment" model and the "Donate with Confidence" seal from the Lealtad Foundation.
Four strategic areas to promote rights and autonomy
Gil has detailed that the federation organizes its work in four "key strategic areas." The first is the strengthening of the associative network, through ongoing support to the federated entities to ensure high-quality services, transparency, and adequate technical coverage throughout the state.
Another priority line is sociolaboral integration, promoting employment as a pillar of personal autonomy. For this, FEBHI has a free Labor Guidance Service aimed at people with disabilities and an intermediation channel with companies.
In parallel, the federation promotes awareness and prevention actions, with constant campaigns that emphasize the relevance of folic acid intake before pregnancy to prevent spina bifida. It also develops initiatives such as the virtual exhibition "I have Spina Bifida, so what?", designed to challenge stereotypes and show the reality of the group.
Likewise, FEBHI maintains a continued institutional effort to advance towards universal accessibility and consolidate historical rights. Among the recent achievements, the inclusion of spina bifida among the disabilities that allow access to early retirement at 56 years stands out.