Rep. James Langevin & Rep. David Cicilline Join Hydrocephalus Caucus

Murphy Joins Hydrocephalus Caucus

Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition caused by abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluids (CSF) in the ventricles of the brain. The condition can occur at any age, affects an estimated one million Americans, and in some cases, can cause death. One out of every 500 babies is born with hydrocephalus in the US, and is the leading cause of brain injury in children. Instances of hydrocephalus are also being found in an increasing number of veterans who develop the condition as a result of brain injuries suffered on the battlefield. Unfortunately, there is no known single cause of hydrocephalus and there have not been significant advancements for treatment over the last fifty years.

Jenna Sciulli, a resident of Chartiers Township in Washington County, has been working to raise awareness about the issue both locally and nationally. Sciulli, who serves as Pennsylvania State Director of the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation (PHF) recently visited Rep. Murphy’s office to discuss the challenges facing parents of children with this condition. She knows first-hand what it’s like because her five-year-old son has hydrocephalus and must attend speech and physical therapy every week.

“I commend Mrs. Sciulli for her tireless efforts to educate lawmakers and the public about this healthcare issue,” said Congressman Murphy, who serves as co-chair of the Doctors Caucus in the House. “Thanks to her dedication, I am joining the Congressional Hydrocephalus Caucus to help inform members of Congress about important research into hydrocephalus diagnosis and treatment, so we may save lives and one day find a cure.”

On Friday August 24th, 2012 over 70 people representing 20 families from 14 States joined together for PHF’s 2nd Annual Hydrocephalus Awareness Day on Capitol Hill.

The event was a complete success as we had scheduled meetings with staffers for 35 Members of Congress and visited many more offices to drop off literature.

The event started on Thursday night with the PHF Meet & Greet Reception at the Embassy Suites Hotel. Friday morning we boarded buses and headed to the US Capitol, where we set up shop in the beautiful and historic Cannon Caucus Room. Meetings were held from 10:30 until 3:00pm at the various House & Senate Office Buildings.

Thank you to our Corporate Sponsors Medtronic & New Jersey Right to Life for underwriting the event.

Save the Date:
The 2013 3rd Annual PHF Hydrocephalus Awareness Day on Capitol Hill will take place Thursday August 22nd, (PHF Meet & Greet Reception) & Friday August 23rd, (Day on Capitol Hill)!!