One option for young children with cerebral palsy involves stem cells taken from their umbilical cords (we blogged about it in April). While the procedure is costly and not always successful, it can help children with cerebral palsy make remarkable recoveries.
Xander McKinley is a testament to the procedure’s possibility. He was born with cerebral palsy. When was two years old, he could not walk or crawl on his own. Now, four years later, he can stand on his own and even take a few steps.
Xander can move on his own because his mother decided to store stem cells from the umbilical cord. Xander’s mother Jennifer urges all parents to store umbilical cord blood just in case they might need it later. Parents can store umbilical cord stem cells for their own child or donate it to a bank.
Researchers are looking into other uses for umbilical cord blood, including treatment for brain injuries, heart conditions and cancers.
We are glad to hear that Xander has made such a strong recovery. In most cases, cerebral palsy affects limb movement for a lifetime. A doctor’s mistake during pregnancy or delivery can sometimes lead to the condition. If you think your child developed cerebral palsy because the doctors erred during your pregnancy, contact us today at 1-800-460-0606. During your free consultation, we can discuss options you can take to hold doctors accountable for their mistakes so you can afford treatments like these.
Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP – cerebral palsy lawyers
