According to medical professionals, predicting the life span of a child with cerebral palsy is almost impossible; however, it is still a significant concern to the parents. When estimating life expectancy of cerebral palsy patients, the following are a few of the factors that are generally taken into consideration:

• Severity – Obviously, severe impairment on the body has the potential to shorten the life span of a cerebral palsy sufferer. More severe manifestations of the disorder may point to a more serious underlying condition, such as major brain damage.
• Feeding difficulties – Self-feeding children often experience more independence and robust health than those who require assistance, and difficulty in eating may result in malnutrition.
• Respiratory function – The struggle to breath may tire the body and make it harder to function overall. This may lead to fatal heart conditions.

Through the years, there have been cases where mistreatment by medical professionals has been the cause of cerebral palsy in some children. If you think your child is suffering as a result of medical malpractice, please get in touch with our birth injury lawyers at the Driscoll Firm. Call us now at (800) 900-7704.

Alana Clark, a 51-year-old woman from Bristol who suffers from cerebral palsy, recently placed first in a bodybuilding contest for disabled contestants that saw participants from 17 countries.  Anna Clark was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at a young age and lost feeling in her left side at the age of 36 after she suffered a stroke.  After doctors encouraged Clark to take up swimming to build up her strength again, Clark began to exercise regularly.  Following the death of her son in a car accident, the mother of two says she was inspired to take up bodybuilding in order to honor her son who loved to exercise.

Despite still needing a cane to walk around and being in and out of the hospital, Clark was able to build up enough muscle to compete in a world championship bodybuilding contest and take home the leading prize.  In addition to honoring her son, Clark hopes her win will inspire others who are disabled to pursue their dreams.

At the Driscoll Firm, our legal team is dedicated to helping those with cerebral palsy achieve great things, just as Alana Clark did.  If you or a loved one suffers from cerebral palsy due to the negligence of a medical professional, contact our offices today at (800) 305-9800 to learn how we can assist you.

Cerebral palsy is a disorder wherein muscle coordination and mobility is impaired. There are also situations in which other senses are affected, such as hearing and vision. According to Healthline, out of 1,000 children, 2 to 3 suffer from cerebral palsy.

The causes of cerebral palsy are either an injury that occurs during birth or an abnormal development inside the brain. Either can lead to abnormalities that affect posture, movement, and coordination. The cause of the disorder usually occurs while the child is in utero, during the birth process, or shortly after delivery. Healthline also mentioned that most children born with cerebral palsy may not show symptoms right away; some birth defects are detected months or even years later.

Generally, cerebral palsy cannot be cured, although treatment and early diagnosis can be significant in improving the life of a person suffering from the disorder.

While most people are able to place their trust in health care professionals without worry, there are instances in which a doctor’s misconduct leads to injury. When a medical professional’s actions cause a baby to be born with cerebral palsy, our legal team at Driscoll Firm is prepared to help the family pursue compensation in order to better provide for the needs of the child. Call us at (800) 900-7704 to learn more.