On the first day of Congenital Heart Defects (CHD) Awareness Week, Waisman Center and UW Health Kids experts gathered to share their knowledge on the neurodevelopmental outcomes of congenital heart surgery with the community.
Outreach
The Baby Badger Network seeks to make genetic testing more accessible to critically-ill newborns throughout Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, a new initiative is transforming the landscape of neonatal care by making genetic testing more accessible for critically-ill newborns.
A tribute to Paul White: Champion of community, compassion, and change
Paul White, MA, founder of Community TIES and former director of the Waisman Center’s Community Outreach Wisconsin program, passed away unexpectedly on June 17, 2025.
Turning passion into progress: How former LEND trainee Ashlee Parker helps young students thrive
LEND is a special training program funded by the federal Maternal & Child Health Bureau of the Department of Health & Human Services.
As new fiscal year looms, Wisconsin disability rights groups brace for major funding cuts
By Natalie Eilbert The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Key Points Wisconsin disability rights groups are concerned about potential funding cuts in the 2026 federal budget. Disability Rights Wisconsin may lose funding for programs related to voting rights, …
Wisconsin LEND trainees visit state legislators to share their personal stories and educate about the impact of Medicaid on Wisconsinites with disabilities
The Wisconsin LEND Program prepares individuals with disabilities to engage in policy discussions, giving them the tools and confidence to make their voices heard.
Spring showers bring May flowers… and food! Waisman dietitians host classes on low-protein cooking and gardening for individuals with PKU.
The team of dietitians from the Waisman Center’s Biochemical Genetics Clinic hosted a morning event with a cooking and container gardening class for individuals with PKU and their families.
Statewide success: Managing threatening confrontations training enhances disability support for thousands
It focuses on teaching proactive and positive strategies for supporting individuals with disabilities through a broad range of behaviors and escalation levels.
A therapeutic trot: How horses can help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
“In the wild, horses’ hearts sync up. That’s how in the herd, if one notices a mountain lion, a horse a mile away notices it too, and they all start running together. They sync their heartbeats to each other.
Connecting Families: Waisman network helps families with special needs through peer support
Caring for someone with a disability is not a singular experience. It differs widely across families with different disabilities presenting their own joys and challenges. Creating spaces where families of individuals with disabilities can come together and share their experiences can be an important comfort and support while navigating life.