Last week marked a monumental achievement in cerebral palsy awareness, as the 112th Congress officially passed S.R. (Senate Resolution) 89 declaring March 25 as National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day.
The resolution was passed unanimously.
“I’m proud to support this resolution again to try to raise awareness of this debilitating neurological disorder for those families struggling with it. I hope that Americans across the country will take time to educate themselves and others on cerebral palsy and show their support for the brave families that are affected by this disorder,” commented U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson (R-Ga). Along with Senator Bob Casey (D-Penn.), Isakson introduced the bill to the Senate for consideration and voting. The pair served as the co-sponsors for the bill since it’s first introduction on the floor.
The effort to push the bill through began with Reaching for the Stars: A Foundation of Hope for Children with Cerebral Palsy (RFTS), the largest North American pediatric nonprofit foundation dedicated to those dealing with cerebral palsy. Launched in 2005, the foundation is run by parents with a united goal of “prevention, treatment, and [ultimately a] cure of cerebral palsy.”
RFTS believes a day dedicated to cerebral palsy awareness will contribute to this overall goal.
With more than 800,000 individuals with cerebral palsy in the United States today, increased awareness of the disorder, its causes, and its impacts is essential for prevention, treatment, and a cure.
“I am pleased to be supporting this resolution that recognizes the challenges faced by individuals living with cerebral palsy and their families,” said U.S. Senator Bob Casey. “We must continue the work of education our communities about the impact of this disorder.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “cerebral palsy is becoming more prevalent and that about 1 in 303 children suffer from cerebral palsy.” Additionally, it is the most common disability affecting motor skills in children, impacting the lives of more than 17,000,000 people worldwide.
The disorder is caused by disruptions or damage to the child’s brain, often occurring during delivery. A number of factors can contribute to this disorder, including meningitis, infant stroke, lack of oxygen at birth, traumatic head injury, or random gene mutation. The condition impacts the child’s ability to control their muscle movement, and often includes cognitive challenges and delayed development. Although the condition is not curable, therapy, nutrition and supplementation can improve the child’s ability to function. Further, additional research shows potential for more effective treatments, therapies, and even a cure.
For more information about RFTS, visit www.reachingforthestars.org.
Although not curable, cerebral palsy is sometimes preventable. Often caused by traumatic brain injury or oxygen deprivation at birth, cerebral palsy can result from a medical mistake. If your child suffers from cerebral palsy and you believe that your medical team might have contributed to your child’s injury and consequent condition, you may benefit from legal counsel. Our experienced cerebral palsy attorneys can counsel you through the legal process and help you obtain any compensation you may be entitled to.
