WHAT IS CEREBRAL PALSY?

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a physical disability that is an umbrella term referring to a group of disorders affecting a person’s ability to move. CP affects people in different ways and can affect body control, coordination, muscle tone, reflex, posture, and balance. CP occurs when the brain is permanently injured during pregnancy, birth, or shortly after birth.

CP is complex and affects each person differently, often with a number of co-occurring disabilities, such as visual, learning, hearing, speech, epilepsy, and/or intellectual impairments. While the initial brain injury doesn’t change over time, the wear and tear of living with it’s effect often means that people with CP experience age-related changes, like increased muscle weakness and decreased balance much earlier.

STEPTEMBER IS A FUNDRAISING INITIATIVE OF CEREBRAL PALSY ALLIANCE RESEARCH FOUNDATION - CPARF.

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

We invest in the next generation of assistive technology. CPARF invests in startups dedicated to advancing technologies that enhance movement, communication, navigation, and independence for people with disabilities through our tech startup accelerator - Remarkable US.

Early Detection and Intervention

We fund research to give babies the best possible start. Early detection enhances the chance of successful intervention treatment and improves overall quality of life. 

Chronic Pain

We advance research on chronic pain, focusing on prevention and new treatment development. These findings will help people lead fuller, less painful lives with enhanced career, education, and social opportunities. 

Adulthood

From aging, and changes in mobility, to better access to ongoing care and support, the needs of adults with CP matter and we’re working to ensure that those needs can be met.

Genomics

We fund research that has the potential to transform lives by identifying genetic factors that contribute to various diagnoses. Advances in genomics means we can develop targeted therapies, earlier interventions, and improve quality of life with better care and support.