Cajal Neuro Research Foundation

Philosphy

CNRF approaches each patient with the utmost compassion and care while using the most innovative and state of the art scientific techniques.  We believe in providing comprehensive treatment to patients that will not only cure them in the scientific sense, but empower them on a physical, mental and spiritual level.  A neurological disorder is something a patient has, it does not define the patient.  We want to change the way people see themselves in relation to their disorders.   At CNRF, our first priority is removing the stigma associated with such disorders, which are really not disorders at all in our eyes, but un-channeled creativity that needs an outlet in which to flourish.  Through education and support, we can help educate patients and the public alike in understanding neurological disorders in order to empower them and give them the confidence to speak out and seek appropriate care.  It is only after transforming our own minds that can we begin to transform society as well as the disorder itself. 

Many areas of the world still do not have a comprehensive understanding of neurological disorders.  For example, in many parts of South Asia, neurological disorders are treated with inappropriate traditional or herbal medicines.  In other cases, superstitious practices are conducted to rid patients of evil spirits or curses.  In one extreme case in the year 2000, a ten year old child, Umair Choudry, who was suffering from autism, was granted asylum to the United States from Pakistan on the grounds that he would otherwise face persecution in Pakistan since it was believed that the child needed to be purged from a curse (Siskind Susser Bland).  In order to eradicate such misunderstandings of  neurological conditions, CNRF has initiated an educational awareness program that targets indigenous populations in order to fill a much needed gap in knowledge.  To read more about our awareness program, click here.

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