What is Cerebral Palsy?

As the mother of a child with cerebral palsy, I often have to educate others on cerebral palsy. Sometimes people are afraid to ask questions because they think they might look dumb for asking the questions or they think I might be offended at the questions. I much prefer questions over someone staring at my son, awkward glances, or rude comments. In fact, I really don't mind answering questions or educating others about what cerebral palsy is. I think this (educating others about cerebral palsy) has become one of my life's missions.

So, what exactly is cerebral palsy you ask? Well, I will attempt to put the information I know into laymen's terms in efforts to explain cerebral palsy in a way anyone and can understand. Please note, I am not a doctor or nurse, simply a mother wanting to educate others about her son's condition. For more information on cerebral palsy, please see the cerebral palsy links at the bottom.

What is Cerebral Palsy?
(For the rest of this article, I will now refer to Cerebral Palsy as CP.)
CP is a condition caused by injury to the brain resulting in loss of oxygen typically right before, during, or after birth. More and more often, CP is being linked to negligence on the medical professional's part. It can often be very common in premature babies as well.

What are the effects of CP?
CP affects each person differently. One person could be greatly affected by CP while the other could be full functioning and only have one or two physical signs of it. CP can affect a person's speech, motor control, ability to walk, and the ability to do everyday things - even eating! It can affect their whole body or it can affect just certain aspects of their functioning.

How many children have CP?
According to the United Cerebral Palsy Organization, it's estimated that about 764,000 children and adults in the United States have one or more symptoms of CP. They also estimate that about 8,000 babies/children are diagnosed with CP each year. In addition to that, 1200-1500 preschool aged children are recognized to have cerebral palsy each year.

Does the condition get worse over time?
No! CP is considered a "static" condition - meaning it does not get worse. With therapy and hard work, people with CP can overcome their obstacles.

People have asked me if I wonder what my son's life would be like if he did not have CP, but that is hard for me to imagine my child without CP. He is who he is - CP and all. I believe that God chooses special people to raise his special children and I am thankful that he thought me and my family were special enough to raise this truly remarkable and special child.

For more information on CP, check out any of the websites below.
United Cerebral Palsy Organization

Cerebral Palsy: A Guide for Care

Support Community for Parents for Children with CP