Transforming Lives with Cerebral Palsy Care

World Cerebral Palsy Day, observed each year on October 6, shines a light on the needs and potential of nearly 17 million people worldwide living with cerebral palsy. It is more than an awareness day—it’s a global reminder that inclusion, innovation, and advocacy can create a more accessible and equitable world. 

As a global leader in pediatric cerebral palsy care, Gillette Children’s Cerebral Palsy Institute is dedicated to transforming lives. Through clinical transformation, cutting-edge clinical care and research, and worldwide advocacy, we are advancing new standards of care for children and their families. Our mission extends beyond direct patient care—we partner internationally, share expertise at leading conferences, and advocate for early diagnosis, better outcomes, and lifelong possibility for every child.

Oran, a young man from Ireland, has lived with cerebral palsy since birth. His childhood was filled with challenges—multiple surgeries, constant pain, and the daily brace wear. His parents, Grainne and Ciaran never stopped hoping for something better. That hope found a path forward when Grainne saw author Lily Collison on television, discussing the Gillette Healthcare Press book titled Spastic Diplegia about her son’s cerebral palsy journey. Grainne reached out, and Lily connected her with Tom Novacheck, MD, at Gillette Children’s Cerebral Palsy Institute. 

A care coordination conference call led to in-person evaluation including gait analysis and imaging. With that consultation, both Dr. Novacheck and the family felt that Single Event Multilevel Surgery (SEMLS)—a specialized procedure that addresses multiple muscle and bone issues in one operation had a good likelihood of helping. The goal included improved gait and mobility, reduction in pain, and enhanced quality of life.

The results exceeded expectations. Gillette’s care team’s compassionate hands. with its deep experience in cerebral palsy, made the journey worth every mile. Today, Oran is in less pain, more mobile, confident, and active—living proof of what’s possible when families persevere, communities connect, and expert care meets determination.

At Gillette Children’s, research begins with listening—learning from the lived experiences of children and families with cerebral palsy. Their stories shape our innovation, guide priorities, and ensure care reflects real-world needs. Our research projects include children, adolescents, and adults, which gives a unique lifespan perspective on outcomes and quality of life. We also partner with other leading institutes, such as the Cerebral Palsy Research Network (CPRN), to strengthen and expand the impact of this work. Some of our research projects follow individuals from childhood through adulthood, spanning over 30 years, giving us a unique long-term perspective on outcomes and quality of life. We also partner with other leading institutes, such as the Cerebral Palsy Research Network (CPRN), to strengthen and expand the impact of this work.

Our Developmental Evaluation Clinic is an example of how these priorities bring together innovation. Designed to identify cerebral palsy earlier, the clinic has neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, and physical therapists in one coordinated visit. Early diagnosis is critical—while cerebral palsy itself is not progressive, symptoms change as a child grows, and early intervention can maximize movement, function, and lifelong development.

By combining patient insights with evidence-based practice, Gillette is redefining what care looks like at every stage of the cerebral palsy journey.

Global impact begins with collaboration. At Gillette Children’s Cerebral Palsy Institute, we partner with clinicians and researchers worldwide to share knowledge. And through our learning health system model, we drive clinical implementation today while paving the way for future breakthroughs. 

For example, this year at the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine (AACPDM) annual meeting, our team will present over 30 posters, podium presentations, and education sessions, highlighting research, clinical innovations, and global partnerships—all aimed at improving diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of cerebral palsy. 

These efforts aren’t just contributions—they are leadership. By advancing best practices, sharing knowledge, and championing advocacy, we work toward a future where every child can thrive.

World Cerebral Palsy Day is an invitation to join a global movement for change. At Gillette Children’s, we remain steadfast in our mission to improve lives through expert care, groundbreaking research, and relentless advocacy.

Together, we can help build a world where every child with cerebral palsy has the chance to live their fullest life.