This week, we're lighting up the Civic Centre in Littlehampton and Bognor Regis Town Hall in purple to help raise awareness of craniosynostosis and show our support for the children, families and adults affected by this condition.
Craniosynostosis is a rare condition that affects around one in every 2,000 to 3,000 babies. It occurs when one or more of the fibrous joints (sutures) in a baby's skull fuse too early, affecting how the skull and brain grow.
For many children, treatment involves surgery within their first year of life, and some may require further procedures as they grow. The condition can vary significantly from child to child and, in some cases, may be associated with additional challenges such as developmental delays, speech and language difficulties, behavioural issues or epilepsy.
It's important to remember that not every unusually shaped head is caused by craniosynostosis. Conditions such as flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly) are much more common and are usually not serious. If you have any concerns about the shape of your child's head, seek advice from your GP or health visitor.
By lighting our buildings purple, we're helping to spark conversations, increase understanding and remind local families that support is available.
Find support through the Cranio Ribbons UK Facebook community:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/544572098971383
Learn more about craniosynostosis on the NHS website:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/craniosynostosis/
Originally published by Arun District Council ↗