United Cerebral Palsy of NYC has opened up a new branch in Harlem, giving residents of Upper Manhattan and The Bronx better access to the much-needed services provided by the organization. United Cerebral Palsy of NYC serves more than 14,000 children and adults with cerebral palsy, and helps others with a range of disabilities. Working out of a single location for decades on 23rd Street in Manhattan, the organization decided it was time to expand. “People with developmental disabilities, we know it is very challenging and hard for them to have a lot of different opportunities and be exposed to meaningful activities in their lives. Being in Harlem really gives us an opportunity to provide them with those meaningful activities as well as help them to become more independent,” said coordinator of Operations Parnelle Labonte. One program participant, Jeffrey Gale, says that having a location closer to home will make…
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Birth Injury and Cerebral Palsy Attorneys Home
United Cerebral Palsy of NYC Expands
January 26, 2012Expensive Treatment Needed for Child’s Disorder
January 24, 2012Birth trauma led to a New York state newborn’s rare seizure disorder, and paying for an incredibly expensive treatment is taking the combined efforts of an entire community. Odin Fortner-Watrous suffers from a rare seizure disorder called West Syndrome, caused by a lack of oxygen he experienced during his first moments in the world. “He spent four minutes with no oxygen and it caused severe brain trauma, and due to the brain damage the seizures developed,” said Odin’s mother, Shayna Fortner Watrous, telling the story of his birth. The only treatment option approved in the United States for Odin’s condition, called ACTH, costs $300,000 for a five day supply. Full treatment takes 14 weeks. “We pay $4,600 out of pocket, per vial,” explains Shayna. The mother of four was recently diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. Odin’s father, Arthur, says that every dollar he makes is going towards paying for…
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Man With Cerebral Palsy Earns Red Belt In Karate
January 20, 2012A man with cerebral palsy is accomplishing something few would think possible for someone in his condition: learning karate. Aaron Timmons, a 29-year-old man in the U.K., found karate by accident. Though he had been a fan of Japanese anime, most notably Dragon Ball Z, Timmons was not looking for karate lessons. He just happened to take a trip with his sister while she searched for boxing lessons. While sitting and watching her train, he heard noises coming from another class that attracted his attention. Going over to watch the karate students, he decided to ask for instruction. “Disability or not, the criteria is still the same,” said Timothy Hill, Timmons’ instructor. “He’s not coming in here being pampered and just getting a belt. When he’s on the floor, he’s just like (everyone else).” Timmons just attained his first belt rank beyond the standard white. He is immensely proud of…
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