Where does the Funding go?

Research:

80% of the money raised sponsors research into the causes, treatment and prevention of hydrocephalus and associated pediatric neurosurgical conditions. Madi's Fund is currently sponsoring research projects at the University of Vermont College of Medicine. One project involves the development of a medical device which can be implanted into a shunt. The device indicates whether the shunt is functioning or not, thus eliminating the need for a CAT scan or other invasive procedures. Several other research studies are under consideration.

Pediatric Patient Family Assistance Fund:

The remaining 20% is contributed to the Patient Family Assistance Fund at Fletcher Allen Health Care (FAHC). This fund helps parents of pediatric patients with financial assistance for lodging, food, medical equipment, and other expenses while their child is sick or undergoing medical treatment.

Public Education and Support Networks:

Madi's Fund is also working on:

• Developing a resource guide of Vermont and New York State support groups (including Medicaid, Parent to Parent, Early Invention and Family Infant Toddler Project) for families who are affected by hydrocephalus and associated neurosurgical conditions.
  
• Increasing public awareness of Hydrocephalus and associated conditions by distributing information (our website and brochure) and fund raisers (Madi's Fund Dinner and Silent Auctions).
  
• Distributing the new book - "Hydrocephalus: A Guide for Patients, Families & Friends" by Chuck Toporek & Kellie Robinson to all new hydrocephalus patients at FAHC, as a resource guide for the families to better understand the condition.
  
• Making availible the book "Children with Spina Bifidia: A Parents Guide" published by Woodwine Books to new Spina Bifidia patients.