March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, an effort started by a cerebral palsy advocacy group in 2006. The intent of the month – and Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day, which is March 25th – is to “push for positive change in education programs, the healthcare system, and the job market to give opportunities to those living with cerebral palsy.”
Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day goes one step further to encourage more funding for research. People are encouraged to make contributions to cerebral palsy research foundations, advocacy organizations, and support groups on this day, which has grown into an international event.
You can show your support this year by contributing to local organizations that may be overlooked by larger campaigns. If you post about it, use the tag #GoGreen4CP to help spread the word.
BIRTH INJURY AND CEREBRAL PALSY
Cerebral palsy is the result of damage to or abnormal development of the frontal lobe, which is responsible for movement. It may be marked by difficulties with movement, muscle rigidity, muscle spasms, paralysis, speech delay, learning difficulties, slow growth, and more. It may also come with an increased risk for seizures and similarly serious concerns.
Around 90% of all cases of cerebral palsy are congenital. This means that they are a result of abnormal brain development while in utero. However, an estimated 5 to 10% of these cases are the result of medical negligence, incompetence, or error during labor or delivery.
Damage to the frontal lobe can occur when oxygen flow is disrupted during labor or delivery. There are myriad possible causes for oxygen disruption, making it essential that healthcare providers constantly monitor both mother and baby during the process of labor. Failure to adequately monitor progress can allow harm to happen quickly. Swift action must be taken. When it is not, serious consequences can follow.
If you suspect medical negligence played a role in your child’s condition, you need a legal team that knows how to identify medical malpractice and is willing to hold all of those responsible to account. Our team of birth injury lawyers is here to help. Give us a call at 404-760-7400 to schedule a free case review and learn more.