Coping with Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy are permanent non-progressive disorders that affect a child’s development and mobility. The extent of its effects on a child’s cognitive and practical functions vary from case to case. According to latest available data, cerebral palsy occurs in about 2 of every 1000 live births – exhibiting a significantly higher prevalence in preterm births. Infants with low birth weights are also at a higher risk of developing this condition. About 80% of cerebral palsy cases are caused by prenatal events; while another 10% are caused by postnatal events.

Medical providers have the responsibility to keep both mother and child healthy during pregnancy to avoid such disorders. They must ensure that all risk factors associated with cerebral palsy are properly addressed. During birth, doctors must also respond to fetal and maternal distress properly. Failing to uphold these responsibilities could potentially hold them liable for medical malpractice

Cerebral palsy affects not just children, but their entire families. Most children with cerebral palsy survive into adulthood. However, lots of time, effort, and financial resources are needed by families just to cope. For victims of medical malpractice, securing compensation is an effective way of ensuring that all medical and practical needs of an affected child can be provided.

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1. Educate Your Family About Cerebral Palsy

The first crucial step when coping with cerebral palsy is education. If you happen to stumble on this article while doing your research, then you are on the right track! As stated earlier, most children affected with cerebral palsy survive into adulthood. Thus long-term planning is necessary.

You may consult the following government websites to learn more about cerebral palsy:

Educating your family about CP is an ongoing process. It may involve sharing information, attending support groups together, or inviting healthcare professionals to speak with the family. This education can significantly improve the quality of life for both the person with CP and their family members.

2. Find an Emotional Support System

Finding emotional support is crucial when coping with cerebral palsy. Emotional support provides a foundation for resilience – allowing people to better manage the physical, social, and psychological aspects of living with CP. Support groups can alleviate feelings of isolation and frustration that often accompany the condition. In the US, concerned families may reach out to several non-profit organizations for some direction. 

In New York, families may reach out to the following organizations/institutions:

It is important to note that emotional support can come from various sources, including family, friends, support groups, mental health professionals, and community organizations. These networks not only offer comfort but also valuable information and resources. They can help individuals and families stay informed about new treatments, adaptive technologies, and advocacy efforts.

3. Socialize Your Child

Socializing a child affected by cerebral palsy (CP) is crucial for their overall development and well-being. It plays a vital role in their emotional growth, self-esteem, and quality of life. Through socialization, children with cerebral palsy are allowed to build relationships and gain a sense of belonging within their community – just as all children should.

Moreover, socializing provides opportunities for children to educate their peers (families, friends, and the general public) about their condition, fostering understanding and acceptance. This peer education is a form of advocacy that can help create a more inclusive environment.

Some early socialization venues for children with cerebral palsy include:

  • Inclusive education programs
  • Adaptive sports programs
  • Art and music therapy groups
  • Community recreation programs (camps or after-school programs)
  • Theater and performance groups
  • Virtual social groups

4. Seek Compensation for Medical Malpractice

All medical expenses (past and future) are considered in a medical malpractice claim. In birth injury cases, compensation ensures that an injured child is provided with all the necessary support for their growth and development.

Seeking compensation from negligent healthcare providers can help families affected by cerebral palsy cover extensive medical costs, fund long-term care, and improve quality of life. It also holds providers accountable, potentially preventing future incidents. Compensation can support home modifications, education, and caregiver needs, easing the financial burden on families.

Apart from medical expenses, other economic and non-economic losses are also factored in. Lost income, emotional trauma, and decreased quality of life are some of the more common considerations. For actual compensation figures, please refer to our previous wins.

Apart from medical malpractice compensations, families can also seek support through:

  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Medicaid and Medicare programs
  • State-specific disability assistance programs
  • Special education funding and services
  • Vocational rehabilitation programs
  • Non-profit organizations offering grants
  • Government tax credits and deductions for disability-related expenses
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Speak to a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Today

At the Porter Law Group, our team of proven medical malpractice lawyers delivers ideal results. We take pride in helping families rebuild after unfavorable circumstances. We operate on a contingency basis – meaning you do not need to pay us anything unless we win your case. Through this approach, we can better support families during their times of need.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice, please reach out to us for a non-obligatory free case evaluation. You can also contact us at 833-PORTER9 or info@porterlawteam.com to schedule a consultation.

Last Updated on 
October 8, 2024
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