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I a raising funds for the Erb's Palsy Group for the great work they undertake and the invaluable support they have given to our family since the day my daughter Caitlin was born with the condition.

Erb’s Palsy is a condition which mainly arises through a difficult birth, with the nerves supplying movement, function and sensitivity to the shoulder, arm and hand being damaged. The result is that the baby is left with one or in rare cases both arms paralysed to a greater or lesser extent. 

Caitlin’s left arm was paralysed, hanging limp with an elbow that did not bend and a hand held in the waiters tip (turning backwards) position when she was born. As a result, she has undergone 3 surgeries and many, many hours of intensive physiotherapy.

Now 17 years old, Caitlin can only lift her left arm to a 70/80 degree angle in front of her and is therefore unable to lift her arm above shoulder or head height. She has a slightly natural, permanent bend in her elbow and whilst she can bend her arm into the body, she is unable to touch her hand to her mouth or face. She can touch her body with her left hand but her hand tends to be bent into an unnatural position for her to be able to do this with her shoulder and elbow sticking out away from her body and thus doesn’t serve any useful purpose. Her left arm is at least a hand size shorter than her right. She is unable to turn her palm over fully.

Caitlin’s left shoulder is held higher than her right – she is over compensating and this may have implications in later life as her shoulder may become stiff and have an effect on her back/spine if she continues to hold her shoulder higher.  Her trapezium muscle has in fact previously gone in to spasm. Blood flow to the arm is compromised so it can often appear mottled and is more susceptible to temperature changes than the unaffected arm.

As a result of this physical condition, Caitlin does struggle with with issues of a personal and practical nature on a daily basis. However, despite her limitations and any difficulties that arise, Caitlin is a cheerful, determined and independent young woman. Her determination to achieve is strong and she should be proud of the efforts she has made in her progress.

Thanks must largely go to the Erb's Palsy Group who not only directed Debbie and myself in the first instance to the relevant specialists, without whom Caitlin would have made no progress and faced a much bleaker future, but for their ongoing support, advice, information and encouragement. The Erb's journey has been a roller coaster of emotions and the Erb's Palsy Group have always been there to assist through the difficult times and share the good. Please help me to thank them by sponsoring me in my first ever Great North Run.