Cerebral Palsy Support Groups and Organizations

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Hearing the news that you have a child with cerebral palsy can be overwhelming. You may need to reach out to others for support. Fortunately, there are numerous avenues you can take to get the help you need.

Support from Family and Friends

One of the most obvious choices when looking for support is to reach out to family and friends. Whether venting frustrations over the phone or visiting family and friends in person to share your daily joys and/or complaints, support by people you know and trust can be invaluable.

It’s highly recommended that you try to help your family and friends learn as much about cerebral palsy as you can. Education is the key to better understanding such a complex disorder. Learning together can also help bring you closer to your family and friends.

Cerebral Palsy Organizations and Support

Cerebral palsy is the most common type of childhood motor disability. Numerous organizations have been created to help with support, learning, and other assistance.

• United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is a popular organization that not only advocates for people with cerebral palsy, but also provides support services for caregivers, parents, loved ones, and more.[1]
• The Cerebral Palsy Forum is an online forum for anyone who has questions about cerebral palsy or just needs to talk. There are threads for parents, about treatments, discussions of medical malpractice, and more.[2]
• March of Dimes supports research and heads up advocacy and education programs related to health issues for moms and babies.[3]
• Cerebral Palsy Foundation is a national advocacy group that funds and promotes programs to help children and adults with CP.[4]
• Weinberg Family Cerebral Palsy Center at Columba University in New York conducts research and provides patient care and education. The program aims to provide lifelong, comprehensive care for people with CP.[5]
• The Arc is an advocacy group for people with disabilities. It provides information, advocacy, and life skills through hundreds of local chapters.[6]
• Family Voices supports families of children with disabilities and special health needs. It connects family organizations across the country to provide education, advocacy, and resources.[7]
• Mommies of Miracles is the largest online support group in the world for mothers of children with disabilities and special health needs.[8]
• Cerebral Palsy Support Network in Australia helps families access therapy, find educational resources, and coordinate services.[9]
• Enable Ireland connects parents and their children with assistive services, technology, and ongoing care for a lifetime.[10]
• HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy “HMS School educates, nurtures, and cares for children and young adults with complex physical disabilities resulting from cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury or other neurological impairments, with the goal of enabling each to reach his or her maximum potential. We promote independence and improve the quality of life for youth in a safe and secure environment so each can lead a fulfilling, stimulating life now and as an adult.”

Local and Online Support Groups

Cerebral palsy online support groups give you the opportunity to branch out and get additional support in the comfort of your own home. Social networks connect people with similar interests and experiences and becoming especially popular.

In fact, many of the popular cerebral palsy organizations have Facebook pages set up for people to support each other and learn more information about cerebral palsy.

Look for local groups as well. Many organizations have regional, state, and city branches. Some cities and communities also have independent groups that provide resources and support for area residents.

Here are a few of the online and virtual support and informational groups available to children, families, and adults with CP:

• Inspire Support Group. Hosted by Inspire.com, this CP support group is active and includes discussions about independent living, family and friends, treatments, raising a child with CP, and more.[11]
• Special Needs Moms for Moms. This online group connects moms for support and socializing. The site includes a forum, blogs, groups for more specific interests, and resources.[12] 
• Mommies of Miracles. This group is among the largest virtual support groups for parents of disabled children. Here you’ll find forums, special programs, resources, and plenty of peer support.[13]
• Only Adults with Cerebral Palsy. A great social resource for adults, this Facebook group connects people living with cerebral palsy.[14]
• Cerebral Palsy Worldwide. This Facebook group connects people around the world, including children, adults, and parents.[15] 

Community Fundraisers

Although community fundraisers are generally designed to bring awareness to cerebral palsy while raising money, many people find a wealth of support while attending these types of events. Parents and loved ones will generally find others that are not only going through similar issues but also live in the same community.

Not only will you find support, but you may also find new friends and new playmates for your child.