We all know about medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. But are you familiar
with the most-common motor disability in children? It’s cerebral palsy, commonly called CP.
CP is known as the forgotten disability – it's our goal to change that by raising awareness for this life-altering condition.
● 1 in 323 children are diagnosed with CP
● CP is an injury that occurs in the brain before the age of 2
● CP is the most common motor disability in children
● CP affects more individuals in the US than childhood leukemia and diabetes combined
● 1 in 4 individuals with CP cannot feed or dress themselves
(Source: CDC, 2013-2014)
CP is a group of muscle disorders that affects a person’s ability to move and control their body. CP is caused by a brain injury or abnormal development of the brain – usually while the brain is still developing before childbirth, or shortly after.
The type and severity of symptoms are unique for each person diagnosed with CP. Some individuals may only need special assistance to complete day-to-day tasks, while others may require extensive daily care.
However, despite challenges with motor and communication skills, many children with CP can succeed in school, engage socially, and live long, fulfilling lives.
CP can affect the body in many ways, including:
● Body movement
● Muscle control
● Muscle coordination
● Muscle tone
● Reflexes
● Posture
● Balance
● Fine motor skills
● Gross motor skills
● Oral motor functioning
While there is no cure for CP, there are treatments available that can greatly improve the quality of life for people living with the condition.
● Therapies – including physical, occupational, and speech
● Medications to control seizures, relax muscle spasms,
and reduce pain
● Surgery
● Orthotic devices or braces
● Walkers or wheelchairs
● Communication aids
Even though an estimated 764,000 Americans are living with CP, there is currently no federal funding to help those affected by the disability. That’s why the Make Lemon Aide Foundation for CP is working to raise funds that used to improve access to the First Step Recovery Model (FSRM), a cutting-edge physical therapy program that is effective at improving motor function and quality of life for those with CP.
Family health insurance plans typically only cover limited yearly therapy visits or therapy provided through in-school systems. These traditional techniques offer limited goals for the child to be successful in everyday life. Trying progressive therapy options can be extremely costly for families to pay out of pocket.
At the Make Lemon Aide Foundation for CP, we are always looking for ways to spread seeds of CP awareness, break down the social barriers and stigma of physical disabilities, and promote inclusion. We invite everyone to join us in our efforts.
● Hosting Lemon Aide stands and other fundraising ideas
● Putting on major fundraising events such as the Walk/Run/Roll in Lauren’s Shoes and the Lemon Twist Gala
● Promoting CP-related events such as National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month in March
● Partnering with businesses and community
● Sharing inspirational stories of CP Warriors, their families, and their supporters
