Spina Bifida of Central Florida Holds Annual Meeting at OCOM
This spring, the Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine (OCOM) proudly opened its campus to host the annual Spina Bifida of Central Florida meeting—welcoming nearly 70 friends and families for a day of learning, connection, and support.
Families came from across the region to attend workshops and sessions tailored to help them care for their children with spina bifida—offering guidance for every life stage, from infancy through adolescence and into young adulthood. The event was a powerful blend of medical insight and heartfelt community, creating space for parents and caregivers to exchange experiences while learning from experts in the field.
OCOM’s student doctors were also deeply involved throughout the day, volunteering their time to assist with activities, welcome guests, and lend a hand wherever needed. The experience allowed students to connect directly with families, gaining valuable perspective on the condition and how it affects patients across the lifespan.
“Events like this give us perspective beyond the classroom,” shared one OMS-I student. “We’re not just learning about diagnoses—we’re seeing the faces behind them.”
In addition to the programming, the accessibility of OCOM’s facilities left a lasting impression on many of the day’s participants—including Shannon Bevans, a presenter and Orlando Health social worker who uses a manual wheelchair and is an adult living with spina bifida. She shared:
“I just wanted to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for how wheelchair accessible OCOM is. I am an adult with Spina Bifida who uses a manual wheelchair for community ambulation, and I was so surprised to learn that the lecture tables were accessible. I have been public speaking for over ten years and spoken in many lecture halls and OCOM was one of the few I’ve encountered that had an adjustable lectern so that I could give my presentation accessibly. From a disability perspective, this minor detail is huge for inclusion.”
At OCOM, we believe true modern medical education includes embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion—not just in our curriculum, but in how we welcome people through our doors. We are honored to have hosted such an inspiring and meaningful event, and we look forward to continuing our support for the Spina Bifida community here in Central Florida.
