FL Announces Funding Cuts for Disabled

According to reports, the state of Florida is about to cut funding to those suffering from cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

As a result, many disabled patients will fall into the tier system and the amount of support and financial help given to them will be determined upon the severity of their health complications.

What Does This Mean for CP Patients?

Erika Gabrielson, 29, an adult with cerebral palsy, is confined to a wheelchair and has the physical ability of a four month old.

When asked whether something she enjoys most is spending time with other disabled patients, she replies with an ear to ear smile.

However, when told that she may no longer be able to spend as much time with her friends, Erika’s smile instantly turns to a frown.

“That’s her whole world, “explains her mother, June. “That’s what she wakes up for and is happy about every morning. To lose that is devastating.”

State to Assign Category Numbers

The state has reportedly been working for months to determine which category number a disabled person fits into to determine how much care they will be eligible for.

Erika’s boyfriend, Ron, is also living with cerebral palsy, but unlike Erika can speak and move.

However, he has been placed in a category two, which is a higher category and as a result will receive twenty thousand dollars more a year than Erika.

The discrepancies in the plan are already becoming apparent and causing outrage and concern in patients and their families throughout the state.

(Source: WPTV)

Do you have a loved one who is living with cerebral palsy? If so, please contact us today so you and those who are important to you can speak with a cerebral palsy lawyer and receive the legal support and help you need and deserve.