Today, we find millions of reasons to celebrate and uphold the cerebral palsy community by marking World Cerebral Palsy Day.
The theme this year is “Millions of Reasons” which seeks to embrace diversity and create an accessible future for the cerebral palsy society.
It was an idea brought to life by the Cerebral Palsy (CP) Alliance in 2012 and it is now a norm in over 100 countries.
It is observed every October 6, to allow everyone to have a deeper understanding of the disorder and its impacts.
Globally, there are 17 million people with cerebral palsy whereas 350 million are closely connected to a child or adult with the disorder.
According to International Classification of Diseases, Cerebral palsy is a disorder which is occasioned by abnormal development of the brain and affects a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture.
It is a permanent condition which at the moment has no cure.
Statistically, one in four cerebral palsy patients cannot walk nor talk and experience epilepsy. One in two have intellectual disability.
There are times during this journey that are so challenging and you may feel lost and discouraged.
These are times when “showing up” for the day and having an open mind and a prayer on your breath are the best tools you have to work with.
It’s very humbling and most of us parents have been there. May love and hope hold you until this time passes.” – Michele Shusterman, Founder of CP Daily Living.
World Cerebral Palsy Day is a call to every individual to be at the forefront to assist those affected to enjoy the same rights, access and opportunities.
Today, let us express our pride and joy in the lives of those with cerebral palsy.
Become a catalyst for change by championing for a better future for those with cerebral palsy. Join the 2022 Millions of Reasons campaign and become part of the change.
BY CHRISTINE OMONDI