Walk-N-Roll for Spina Bifida

41st Annual Falmouth Road Race-Sunday, August 11

Charity numbers available on Team SBAGNE!

Team SBAGNE wants you to join our team as we run the 7.1 miles from Woods Hole to Falmouth Heights in support of the Spina Bifida Association of Greater New England. If you are interested in running and fundraising for SBAGNE, contact Wendy Potts at wpotts@SBAGreaterNE.org

Team SBAGNE has begun training for the 41st running of the Falmouth Road Race! Help them meet their fundraising goal of $45,000.

Spina Bifida is a congenital defect in which part of one or more vertebrae (the bone structure that surrounds the spinal column), fail, to develop completely, leaving part of the spinal cord exposed. It can occur anywhere on the spine but is most common in the lower back. The severity of the condition depends on how much nerve tissue is exposed. Frequently special adaptations on a vehicle are necessary for independent driving. The person with spina bifida may also have impairments in the ~areas of vision, perception (how the brain interprets what the eyes see) or learning. Adaptive driving equipment is frequently used for physical problems. A spinner knob and hand controls can be used if a person is unable to use either foot for gas or brake. Specialized modifications can also allow a person to transfer to the driver’s seat or drive from the wheelchair in a van or minivan.

Common factors that can affect safe driving:

• Limited range of motion and strength
• Difficulty with coordinated movements
• Visual impairments (poor acuity)
• Trouble visually scanning or tracking quickly
• Learning difficulties
• Impaired judgment in complex situations
• Slow processing and reaction time

A driver rehabilitation evaluation will examine the strengths and weaknesses of each individual as related to the driving task. The goal is independent, safe driving. No modifications or vehicle selection should be made until the person has completed a driver evaluation.

If you or those that drive with you notice any of the above warning signs and need a driving evaluation, give us a call at 508-697-6006 and we can, help you with with knowledge about medical conditions, and help with a comprehensive evaluation and determine your ability to drive. 

• Visual Perception
• Functional Ability
• Reaction Time
• Behind-the-wheel evaluation