RESEARCH THAT BENEFITS CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Children with Disabilities ---Botox and Cerebral Palsy
One positive effect of children and families in terms of research that I would like to share is the research that has been developing over the past tens years. Research in children with Cerebral Palsy and the use of Botox which is a therapeutic muscle-relaxing agent that reduces the rigidity of muscles or unwanted spasms in a specific muscle. Botox as we know it, is used as a cosmetic that helps reduce wrinkles or make body parts fuller.
CP is a condition that is marked by impaired muscle coordination (spastic paralysis) and/or other disabilities caused by damage to the brain before or at birth.
Over the past ten years, research has been conducted and proven successful for children with CP and the use of Botox. Small amounts are injected into spastic or stiff muscles. The injection takes effect immediately blocking the transmission between the nerves and the muscles. Muscles are then relaxed and reduces stiffness promoting mobility for muscles to be stretched. It's use also helps children with ease of stretching, improvement in child's range of motion, and tolerance to wearing braces and developmental improvements in crawling, standing, or gait walking.
Initial research conducted a study of 250 children with CP and Botox injections. As a result, video's from children's gait, assessments from doctors, and reports from families found that 86 % of the children treated demonstrated noticeable improvements in symptoms of muscle spasticity. After two years, 80 % of the children still showed improvement over their initial symptoms. Reports have also proven that some children in the study were able to do more for themselves such as feeding themselves, or operating a sink faucet. Others were able to hold a pen and write for the first time. Some were able to use a computer screen to communicate. All of which have proven to be success stories regarding children.

Research on behalf of children is crucial in finding new methods and ways to help children perform and function at their highest capacity as they grow, learn, and develop in life. We were ask the question during our discussion this past week if there are any societal benefits from subjecting children to "greater than minimal risk". I believe that this is one method that society/children can benefit from.

CP and use of Botox is near and dear to me as this is a method that is currently being used on my grandbaby. This has helped her become more mobile. As she continues on her journey, I believe our family will see some more benefits of its use.
Here's a picture of one of my favorite girl's. Meet Khloe Warner, almost 4 years old. She is a recipient of "Botox" use for her CP condition as a result of research. The smile that you see is always on her face regardless of what she is going through. When I think about life and situations, I am grateful and always think about my "Khloebug". I have much to be grateful for!