In 2006, a group of parents of children with cerebral palsy recognized the need for greater public awareness and understanding of CP.
This led the nonprofit organization Reaching for the Stars and Cynthia Frisina of the Cerebral Palsy Foundation to create National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day, which is observed each year on March 25.
Now, all of March is recognized as National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month. It’s a time to promote inclusivity and encourage research initiatives to improve the lives of those with CP.
As a cerebral palsy law firm, Sokolove Law is committed to supporting families affected by CP during this month and throughout the year.
We understand the unique challenges that can accompany a cerebral palsy diagnosis, and we may be able to help you seek compensation for your child’s care.
Why Cerebral Palsy Awareness Is Needed
While the goal of this day is to promote awareness and understanding, a larger hope is that it will inspire more funding for CP research — something several members of Congress are already working toward.
On March 18, Congressmen Steve Cohen, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Emanuel Cleaver reintroduced the Cerebral Palsy Research Program Authorization Act, which is aimed at securing federal support for research initiatives.
"Although cerebral palsy affects one out of every 345 children, it is the most prevalent disability that has no designated federal funding for research," explained Representative Steve Cohen. "No dedicated federal funding for cerebral palsy means there are fewer treatment options, less prevention, less education, and a lack of standards of care across lifespans.”
If approved, the Act would fund a research program through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focused on improving how CP is diagnosed and treated.
Addressing the lack of federal funding for cerebral palsy research is a crucial step toward improving lives, driving medical breakthroughs, and easing the long-term challenges faced by those with CP.
Recognizing CP Awareness Month
Cerebral palsy is the most common motor disability in childhood, according to the CDC. It can affect movement, coordination, muscle control, and posture, often leading to challenges in daily life.
Despite this, understanding of the condition remains limited, leading to misconceptions and barriers for those affected. However, Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month aims to change that.
National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month is a time to:
- Advocate for inclusion and accessibility in schools, workplaces, and communities
- Encourage early diagnosis and intervention to improve quality of life
- Empower families with resources and support networks
- Increase public understanding of CP and the different forms it can take
- Support research efforts to improve treatment options
While life for those with cerebral palsy has improved over the years, progress is still needed. Many CP organizations are working hard to promote and fund research, spearhead legislative efforts, and provide families with financial help.
By shedding light on the realities of living with cerebral palsy, we can help foster greater acceptance, increase support for families, and drive research toward better treatments.
How to Get Involved on Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day
On March 25, families across the country come together to recognize National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day. It’s an opportunity to show up for the CP community and advocate for meaningful change.
Here are a few ways you can get involved:
- Contact your representative to support policies protecting individuals with disabilities
- Donate to organizations like the Cerebral Palsy Foundation or United Cerebral Palsy
- Share posts with facts about cerebral palsy or your personal story
- Use hashtags on social media like #GoGreen4CP
- Volunteer your time by assisting organizations that advocate for equity and inclusion
- Wear green, which is the official color of CP Awareness Month
Being an ally to the CP community doesn’t end when March is over. You can show support throughout the year by using inclusive language, avoiding harmful stereotypes, educating others about CP, and advocating for accessibility in public spaces.
Supporting businesses owned and operated by individuals with disabilities is another meaningful way to make a difference.
Help for Families Impacted by Cerebral Palsy
At Sokolove Law, we proudly stand with the cerebral palsy community. Our team works tirelessly to advocate for victims of birth injuries that can cause CP.
While CP can have many causes, medical malpractice during childbirth is one of them. Preventable birth injuries can lead to lifelong challenges for children and their families, but legal action may provide a path to justice and financial support.
Our cerebral palsy lawyers and registered nurses strive to help families access the resources they need to provide their child with the best possible care, support, and opportunities in the future.
Call (800) 995-1212 now or fill out our contact form to see if we may be able to help you.
