The Blue Bird Circle Rett Center

Rett Syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder which develops almost exclusively in females following apparently normal development for the first six months of life. Typically, between 6 to 18 months of age, the girls experience a period of rapid decline with loss of purposeful hand use and spoken communication. Many of the girls have recurrent seizures. They experience a variety of motor problems including scoliosis. They are never able to provide for their own needs. It is not a rare disorder and is believed to be second only to Down's Syndrome as a cause of chronic neurological problems that include severe communication and motor disabilities and epilepsy in females.

The Center provides care, education and research. Over 300 girls and women have been seen since 1985. The comprehensive program of care provided by The Blue Bird Circle Rett Center has changed the natural history of this disorder by extending the life expectancy and improving the quality of life for these individuals. The ultimate goal of research is to seek a cure and improve the quality of life for patients and families.