Cerebral palsy sufferers seek lifeline in surgery
Stories about the families of children with cerebral palsy trying to raise money for surgery to ease their child’s mobility problems continue to hit the headlines. A recent one is that of Adam Kutereba, of Rochdale (Rochdale online), who has just started his fundraising campaign, meanwhile tiny Leon Wray already has most of the funds needed for his operation and flew off to the US to have it done this week (Thurrock Gazette).
Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy is a procedure that crops up time and again, as if it is successful it can enable cerebral palsy youngsters to take their first steps unaided. Some of the best results have been achieved at the St Louis Hospital in Missouri, so many families opt to send their child there. However it is expensive, with families usually needing to raise around £45,000.
The disability charity Scope advises families thinking of going for the surgery to give it careful consideration, and we would echo those sentiments. It is a major operation, and while it can be life-changing, you and your child need to be fully prepared, as well as having a good understanding of what it can and cannot do. As Scope points out, selective Dorsal Rhizotomy will not benefit all children with cerebral palsy. It is not a miracle cure and an intensive aftercare programme, including physiotherapy is crucial to its success.
There is a wealth of information about the procedure on the Scope website, and this should be one of the first ports of call for families. Detailed conversations should also take place with the healthcare staff responsible for the child’s medical care regarding your child’s eligibility for the surgery.