It is estimated that there are 800,000 people in the United States with cerebral palsy. The degree of ability among people with cerebral palsy runs the gamut—some people can live independent lives, and others require around-the-clock care.
As with any medical condition, cerebral palsy is best handled when it is understood. Families, friends, acquaintances and bystanders would do well to have a deeper understanding of what cerebral palsy is and isn’t. It is only in this way that we can help those who need help, and avoid unfair prejudices. Here are some resources to do just that.
Charities
- United Cerebral Palsy (UCP): a leading charity and advocacy program for people with a spectrum of disabilities, including cerebral palsy
- Reaching for the Stars: founded by parents, this nonprofit strives to serve the needs of children with cerebral palsy, as well as their families and caregivers
Medical Websites
- Mayo Clinic: one of the nation’s premier medical institutions has fantastic background information
- Kennedy Krieger: based in Baltimore, Maryland, Kennedy Krieger has a variety of patient care programs and devotes substantial resources to cerebral palsy research
- KidsHealth: a fantastic resource for children and teens to help them understand what cerebral palsy is
Books
- Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Parent’s Guide: written by health care providers, teachers and parents, this book is a comprehensive advice guide to help families who have children with cerebral palsy
- Mommy, Can I Play with Tommy?: written by a mother who has a child with cerebral palsy, this book helps other children to understand their roles
- Cerebral Palsy: A Complete Guide for Caregiving: slightly more academic, but still readable for the layperson
Research
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC): the CDC has a wealth of information, particularly statistics, on cerebral palsy and related neurological disorders
- Cerebral Palsy Research Registry: an organization that helps to connect families with cerebral palsy researchers
- American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine: geared toward medical professionals and researchers for the benefit of people with cerebral palsy
Blogs/Websites
- Through My Eyes: My Life with Cerebral Palsy: a first-person account of an extraordinary 24-year old woman
- Love That Max: A Blog About Kids With Special Needs Who Kick Butt: the title says it all
- CP Daily Living: a site providing resources for parents andhttps://cprn.org/ caregivers of children with cerebral palsy