About Bio-Rehab for Kids
Bio-Rehab for Kids Inc. is a charity formed by a group of parents who have come together to raise funds for their children who have cerebral palsy and to be able to undertake ABR therapy (Advanced Biomechanical Rehabilitation). Until recently, Perth families undertaking ABR were required to attend a clinic in Singapore 3 times per year for assessment and training, with specific applications provided to be carried out at home on a daily basis by the parents. The charity was originally named as Mums for Biomechanical Change, however the name was changed in February 2008 to Bio-Rehab for Kids as it was felt that this name better reflected the charity's purpose.
We made an application for a grant from Telethon in Decemeber 2007 and our application was successful. The purpose of this grant was to cover the costs of the ABR therapists to travel from Singapore to Perth to conduct the clinics twice per year for the 2008 and 2009 years. The receipt of this grant has reduced the amount of money each family has to raise for airfares and accommodation. Families are now required to go to Singapore only once each year to be assessed by Leonid Blyum, the founder of ABR.
Families undertaking ABR in Perth were originally paying more than $20,000 per year, this includes an annual assessment in Singapore, training programmes and the hire of the ABR machine. Such an amount is challenging to raise each year individually, so as a group we have united in our efforts to raise further funds and help our children.
People with cerebral palsy can achieve amazing things, they become business people, consultants, parents, presidents of local service clubs and internationally respected leaders in their field. Individuals achieve because people believe in them and assist them to overcome barriers.
Our aim is for our children to contribute to their community in whatever way they choose and are capable of, as we feel they all have much to offer. But they need our help, and yours, to be able to access therapies such as ABR that can help them to achieve their potential in life.
By continuing to raise funds, we hope to make this treatment available to a wide group of children in WA to assist in their rehabilitation of cerebral palsy. We feel that everyone should have access to ABR treatment regardless of cost involved, and we are dedicated and committed towards helping our children overcome their limitations and have the best possible chance in life.
The ABR technique has commenced to be adopted in a number of countries in the world and this development will enhance the opportunity for many children to improve their lifestyle and to assist further in their development. We appreciate your assistance in helping our children, and others to come, receive the benefits of ABR and make a real difference towards their future.