Cerebral Palsy Help Program

Approximately 1.5 million children in Russia are diagnosed with cerebral palsy. This is a condition associated with impaired movement, muscular activity, and coordination. Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the motor control centers or motor pathways and can occur during pregnancy or childbirth; it is seen more frequently as a result of cerebral hemorrhage in preterm children born with asphyxia. Cerebral palsy is a major hurdle to both the family and their child — it takes a huge effort to overcome the disease and to help a child to integrate to society. Statistically, a father is more likely to desert a family in a situation like this, as they fail to withstand the psychological burden. Moms have to quit their jobs and dedicate all their lives to the child. Even with both parents working, it may not be easy to earn enough money for quality equipment and rehabilitation, as both come with a hefty price tag. The treatment of cerebral palsy includes complex rehabilitation, consisting of medications, massage therapy, physical therapy, surgery, and various orthopedic options, such as casting, prosthetic surgery, and orthotic devices. It is possible to overcome the disability, but it takes years of hard work. The earlier treatment begins the better chance is to succeed. If the rehabilitation is performed properly, a child may forget about his/her disability and become a fully functional member of society. Certainly, this would require lots of tablets, surgical procedures, and massages — but aren? t these expenditures ultimately worth it?