Shaken Baby Syndrome, Inc. was formed by Jennipher Dickens in 2006 after her son, Christopher, was brutally shaken by his biological father. It was later found that this had happened on more than one occasion while Christopher’s mom was at work. Due to the nature of Christopher’s extensive injuries and the numerous therapies and doctor appointments that ensued, Jennipher, no longer able to dedicate her time to Shaken Baby Syndrome, Inc., enlisted Cindy Franciosa to take over SSBS, Inc. and its mission.

Cindy Franciosa, a dedicated mother of two daughters, upon reading of Jennipher’s plight, as well as many others (to include McKenna, a vivacious two-year-old who succumbed to her injures after being shaken), with great determination and interest in preventing another needless preventable death, took over the organization in providing education to new parents and hospitals.

Shortly after Jennipher’s departure from the organization, Shannon Byron, a mother of three daughters, one of which named Chelsea who had also been shaken by her biological father sustaining lifelong injuries, reached out and joined SSBS, Inc. With collaborated efforts, Shannon and Cindy together provided lectures, education, and support to victims and their families. It was at this time, in 2009, Stop Shaken Baby Syndrome, Inc. became an official 501(c)(3) organization.

In December 2016, for personal reasons Shannon Byron resigned from SSBS. Lisa Phillips, along with her daughter, Darcia Phillips, caregivers to numerous foster children some with disabilities due to SBS, stepped in as Board Members. In 2011 Lisa received placement of twins, one who was severely affected by SBS. Along with her husband, Jon, they adopted the twins in 2013. In 2017 they adopted another child with SBS. Sadly, Ava passed away in 2018 due to her injuries. She was only 7 years old. Both Lisa and Darcia remain active and contribute to the continued successes and thriving of Stop Shaken Baby Syndrome, Inc.

Cindy Franciosa

President  & Founder

Stop Shaken Baby Syndrome, Inc.

A 501(c)(3) Non Profit Organization