Shine is one of the only organisations in the UK offering specialist support to parents affected by anencephaly. Your donation would help support us in our work to educate and campaign on folic acid supplementation to reduce NTDs like spina bifida and anencephaly.

Spina bifida (literally, ‘split spine’) is a neural tube defect which can cause multiple health complications and bring lifelong challenges. Anencephaly is a neural tube defect which causes an unborn baby’s brain and skull to under-develop in the womb. It is always fatal.

Folic acid supplementation is proven to reduce the chances of neural tube defects by up to 70%. Shine’s Folic for Life programme focuses on raising awareness of the benefits of introducing and encouraging the habitual supplementation of folic acid into daily routines.

Shine also works with GPs, antenatal clinics, midwives and other health professionals to educate and advise them of the need to give clear and informed guidance on folic acid supplementation at every opportunity, to help prevent conditions such as spina bifida.

Shine is almost entirely funded by the generosity of the general public. Our balloon races make a significant contribution to our funds every year. By sponsoring a balloon you would be helping us to continue to provide the vital services our members urgently need.