About Us

Founded in 1983 by the parents of children with hydrocephalus, the Hydrocephalus Association (HA) is the nation’s largest and most widely respected organization dedicated to hydrocephalus.

HA funds high-impact research, provides support and educational resources for patients and caregivers, and advocates on behalf of the hydrocephalus community on key policies and legislation.

Since 2009, HA has invested over $17 million in cutting-edge research, making us the largest non-profit, non-governmental funder of hydrocephalus research in the United States.

Our Mission

HA's mission is to find a cure for hydrocephalus and improve the lives of those impacted by the condition.

Our Vision

Our vision is a world without hydrocephalus.

Learn About Our Approach and Strategy

View our 2023-2025 strategic plan.

HA Staff 2024

Board of Directors and Staff

HA’s Board of Directors and staff work together to advance our mission and create meaningful change for the hydrocephalus community. The Board provides strategic direction and guidance, while our dedicated staff brings expertise, compassion, and a commitment to serving those affected by hydrocephalus. Together, they provide invaluable support to our programs, advocacy efforts, and community outreach.

MAB

Medical & Scientific Advisory Boards

The Hydrocephalus Association’s advisory boards provide expert guidance to the staff and Board of Directors, helping to inform strategic planning and organizational priorities. Members are selected for their deep expertise and experience, offering valuable insights that support research, clinical care, and the needs of individuals and families affected by hydrocephalus.

newsletters

Our Printed Newsletters

Our printed newsletter includes our latest initiatives, events taking place, and information about the latest hydrocephalus research, education, and support efforts.

Annual Report

Our Annual Reports and Financials

We aim to be transparent in the use of the funds we receive. View our Annual Reports from the past 10 years, as well as our financials.

See Our Charity Ratings

We are extremely careful with the dollars you have entrusted to us, earning us high marks from charity watchdog groups for our program efficiency, public accountability and cost effectiveness. In fact, we are proud to say that in 2022, over 84% of the Hydrocephalus Association’s total operating expenses were used to support our mission of finding a cure and improving the lives of those impacted by hydrocephalus.

BLOG

Research UPDATE: Investigating Alternative Treatment Options for Hydrocephalus

By Amanda Garzon | March 14, 2013

The Hydrocephalus Association (HA) Research Department update focuses on the research of Dr. Sonia Podvin who aims to develop safe, specific drugs to treat hydrocephalus. She is the recipient of a Mentored Young Investigator (MYI) award from HA.

Research UPDATE: Genetic Mutation Found as a Cause of Neonatal Hydrocephalus

By Amanda Garzon | March 7, 2013

A recent study has shown that a specific type of neonatal hydrocephalus can be caused by defects in cellular signaling pathways. The study, out of the University of Iowa, is being led by Val C. Sheffield, MD, Ph.D, and his research team using a mouse model of Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS). BBS is a rare disorder that can cause hydrocephalus, among other conditions.

Looking Back…Moving Forward: Prescribing Success

By Amanda Garzon | March 6, 2013

The Hydrocephalus Association’s Medical Advisory Board is comprised of nineteen esteemed medical professionals that work closely with our staff to support the educational needs of our members as well as help guide our research vision. As part of our interview series in commemoration of our 30th anniversary, Ashly Westrick, Research Manager, sits down with Dr. Michael Williams, Medical Advisory Board member and co-chair of our recent national conference, “Getting to the Heart of Hydrocephalus”.

Was this resource helpful?

Yes
No
Thanks for your feedback!