Finding Inspiration Instead of Frustration
Being the parent of a child who has cerebral palsy can be riddled with challenges and frustrations, but according to one Indiana mom, it can also be inspirational. Melissa Deuel says she admires the strength of her seven-year-old daughter. Bekka Deuel suffers from cerebral palsy and severe hearing loss, which makes communication difficult. Despite the difficulties she faces every day, Bekka is loving and compassionate, and she works through challenges with a smile.
Experimental Treatment
In 2009, the family traveled to Wisconsin so Bekka could use a hyperbaric chamber, an experimental treatment for cerebral palsy. The chamber allows the user to receive three times the normal amount of oxygen, which increases the blood oxygen level and allows the body to release growth factors and stem cells, fight infection, and heal wounds. According to the Deuel family, Bekka’s treatment with the hyperbaric chamber was effective. As a result, the family would like to purchase a hyperbaric chamber to allow Bekka to have regular treatments. Unfortunately, because the treatments are considered experimental, purchase of a chamber will not be covered by her health insurance. Since the cost of purchasing a hyperbaric chamber can easily reach $20,000, this puts the chamber out of a typical family’s budget.
The Tom and Bryan Foundation
Help for the Deuel Family is coming from an unexpected local organization, the Tom and Bryan Foundation. In 2003, Mishawaka Police Officers Cpl. Thomas Roberts and Patrolman Bryan Verkler were shot and killed in the line of duty. In their honor, the Tom and Bryan Foundation was formed to raise money for local children in need. This year, the foundation has chosen to help Bekka and her family by hosting a benefit concert and auction. All proceeds from the event will be given to the Deuel family to offset Bekka’s medical bills and to purchase a hyperbaric chamber.
According to Melissa Deuel, being chosen as this year’s concert cause is a dream come true. Even though the Deuel family’s life has been anything but easy, Melissa Deuel had this to say about her daughter, “She’s taught me so much about myself and who I want to be. She has given me so much more than I can ever give to her.”
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a general term used to describe a group of neurological disorders that impair muscle control. It is the result of injury to an immature brain that could be caused by fetal stroke, traumatic head injury or a lack of oxygen during the birthing process. A person with cerebral palsy may suffer from rigidity of limbs, abnormal posture, and uncontrollable movements. They may have difficulty with simple tasks like picking up a pencil or swallowing. There are many treatments for cerebral palsy ranging from physical and orthopedic therapy to surgery. While treatments may ease the symptoms of cerebral palsy, there is no cure.
Contact Us
If your child suffers from cerebral palsy due to the fault of another, you may be entitled to compensation to assist with medical bills, treatments and equipment like the hyperbaric chamber sought by the Deuel family. Time to file a claim is limited, so please contact our experienced attorneys today to arrange a free consultation.
