Sophie’s Voice Foundation is a non-profit charitable organization supporting medical research, family outreach programs and prenatal and prevention education for children and adults with spina bifida. Sophie’s Voice was founded in 2008 by actors Boris Kodjoe and Nicole Ari Parker in honor of their daughter, Sophie, who was diagnosed with spina bifida at birth.

SVF MISSION
The mission of Sophie’s Voice Foundation is to elevate the quality of life for children and adults diagnosed with spina bifida and to raise awareness of its prevention.

ABOUT SPINA BIFIDA
Spina Bifida or “open spine” is a neural tube birth defect that affects the development of the spinal cord, its membrane (lining), the spinal nerves and the backbone. It is the most common permanently disabling birth defect – the most complex birth defect compatible with life.

There are 60 million women at risk of having a baby born with spina bifida. Every day, (an average of) eight babies are affected by spina bifida or a similar birth defect of the brain and spine. Each year, about 3,000 pregnancies are affected by these birth defects.

Every unborn infant’s spine is open when it first forms, but normally closes during the first month following conception. In spina bifida, the backbone never properly closes. Forms of spina bifida range from having no open portion of the spine and no nerve damage to an extrusion of the spinal meninges poking through the back with resulting minor disabilities through severe disabilities with nerve damage.

Major personal issues for individuals with spina bifida include mobility (requiring the use of crutches or wheelchairs) and bowel and bladder control.

While individuals with spina bifida may have other medical problems, such as hydrocephalus, many are also challenged with psychosocial problems and learning disabilities.

The life expectancy for this population has changed from adolescence in the 60’s to a normal life expectancy today.

Research has shown that 400 mcg of folic acid taken daily prior to conception and in the first three months of pregnancy can reduce the risk of having a baby with spina bifida by as much as 70%.

There is a bubble of emerging young adults with spina bifida who present a whole new challenge to the healthcare community. Nationwide, there is an inadequate healthcare capacity available for this growing population – there are only three providers in the U.S. recognized as adult spina bifida clinics.

We are proud at charitybuzz to be partnering with Sophie’s Voice Foundation for their first ever online auction to be held in conjunction with their live Cocktails for a Cause evening on Monday, September 14th at Hearst Tower. Serena Williams, Boris Kodjoe, Charles Barkley, Boris Becker, James Blake and Keith Sweat as well as a Special Surprise Musical Guest will make this live kickoff a huge event at the Hearst Tower in New York City. Visit our auction and support Sophie’s Voice Foundation as it is filled with experiences from superstars from the world of sports and entertainment.