Today I received a reader request. A parent wrote to me requesting information about Cerebral Palsy and the breakthroughs involving cord blood. After reading the extremely touching story about her son and his struggles with CP, I felt compelled to address the issue.
According to the center for disease control and prevention, approx 10,000 babies per year in the US will develop cerebral palsy (CP). Cerebral Palsy is a very debilitating disease that affects the brains ability to control the body. CP has many symptoms; weak muscles, inability to walk, uncontrollable movement and jerking among many others.
Victims of CP are often confined to a wheel chair, or form of walking assistance. Until recently there was NO cure for CP, only treatments to improve the condition.
HUGE BREAKTHROUGH:
In 2008 scientist at Duke University made an astonishing discovery. They began using the stem cells found inside a babies umbilical cord blood to treat CP. In an experimental procedure they infused CP patients with stem cells in hopes of repairing the brain damage. Patients had incredible results and started showing signs of improvement just days after the procedure. To learn about how cord blood helped CP patient, three year old Chole Levine visit: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,573265,00.html
Everyday scientist are learning more and more about the life saving value of stem cells. The number of medical conditions treatable/curable with stem cells is increasing rapidly! The future of medicine is HERE: CORD BLOOD, is and will continue to save lives.
Cord blood banking is an investment worth making! You never know what could happen, but saving the cord can give you a priceless gift, peace of mind!
Together We Can Help Save Lives,
Natalie Curry