Cerebral palsy (CP) affects over 1 million people in the United States, with 33 new cases diagnosed daily. Despite being the most common lifelong physical disability, CP remains significantly underfunded. The Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation (CPARF) aims to change this through its STEPtember initiative, a virtual health and well-being fundraising challenge.
Join the Movement
Participants can sign up as individuals or form teams of up to four to take part in STEPtember. The goal is to take the equivalent of 10,000 steps per day, tracking progress through the STEPtember app. Beyond physical activity, participants are encouraged to raise funds that will directly support cutting-edge CP research and the development of life-changing technologies.
Making a Difference
By participating in STEPtember, supporters help advance research in several critical areas. CPARF funds early detection and intervention studies to diagnose children with CP sooner, aiming to give them the best possible start. Additionally, research into communication and movement technology is underway, addressing the needs of the 25% of people with CP who cannot speak.
Further, CPARF is exploring the genetic components of CP, striving to optimize personalized treatments. The foundation is also committed to addressing chronic pain, funding studies to discover non-addictive, non-opioid treatments.
Why It Matters
CP research in the United States faces chronic underinvestment. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) allocates only about $28 million annually to CP research, despite the high prevalence and lifelong economic burden of the condition. In contrast, less common disabilities often receive more funding, leading to greater research advancements.
Global Leadership and Impact
Founded in 2015 by Australia’s Cerebral Palsy Alliance, CPARF is dedicated to transforming CP research in the U.S. By partnering with researchers and institutions worldwide, CPARF ensures that funds are strategically allocated to the most promising studies. Their global reach enables the rapid sharing of research findings, accelerating the development of new treatments and improving the lives of those with CP.
Get Involved
STEPtember is more than just a challenge—it’s a movement that drives forward cerebral palsy research. Whether by taking steps, raising funds, or spreading awareness, participants are making a lasting impact on the lives of those with CP and other disabilities.
For more information and to join STEPtember, visit STEPtember’s website or look up STEPtember on Facebook.
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