The California Bladder Exstrophy Support Team (B.E.S.T.) is an organization of families, individuals, and medical professionals whose lives are touched by bladder exstrophy and related conditions. We are an ever-growing support network throughout California... and beyond! We are dedicated to providing accurate and up-to-date information and resources. The B.E.S.T family is here to help you increase your understanding of exstrophy and to discover that there are great approaches out there to help meet your challenges and needs.
When you connect to the B.E.S.T. organization, you are a member of the entire B.E.S.T. Family and membership is free.
We serve any person or family within the four-county region whose life is touched by bladder exstrophy. However, we turn no person or family away, no matter where they live. Bladder Exstrophy is a condition that must be managed throughout a person's life. People often experience multiple surgeries, procedures, complication and different solutions over time as their condition and needs change and as medical science progresses. This condition may touch anyone or any family. As an inclusive, diverse organization, we help everyone.
We have grown into a large community of adults, children, parents, and professionals who care deeply about helping each other. Two of our core missions are to reach out to individuals with this birth defect who have felt alone in their experience and to educate medical professionals about the resources and support available to their patients with this condition. Our current operating expenses are approximately $3,000 per year. All labor is strictly volunteer.
California B.E.S.T. holds an annual campout each year and a Spring meeting in the Bay Area of Northern California. Speakers, free childcare and other support services are provided at these activities. We also offer mentoring to individuals navigating this challenging life experience.