Every 6th of October, the world lights up in green celebrating people with cerebral palsy and their families. The day organized by World Cerebral Palsy (CP) day invites organizations from every country to participate in marking the occasion by simply preaching CP awareness. A few grand gestures such as buildings lighting up in green, innovations of assistive devices and national and individual celebratory events. It is the day when we celebrate the little or big heroes who are fighting insurmountable battles.
CP is one of the most common childhood impairments with 17 million people with CP in the world and an estimated 60,000 people with cerebral palsy in Kenya. In every 1000 children born, 3- 4 have the condition. However CP is a misunderstood condition which is frequently misdiagnosed and treated incorrectly. Increased awareness is required to properly accommodate people with the condition.
People with cerebral palsy are masters at adapting, dealing with change, breaking down barriers, and coming up with creative solutions. In marking World Cerebral Palsy Day, a platform is provided to showcase people with the condition have adapted and innovated throughout their lives, and especially during the covid-19 pandemic.
People with cerebral palsy share their achievements, the new solutions to the barriers they face and their advocacy. The experiences of family members is also recognised, as are the milestones met and their support systems. We as a society have come a significantly long way with awareness and inclusion, but the cases are increasing. More children are in school, getting therapy and more families are reaching out for support.
I AM HERE, ARE YOU?
I remember when I was younger, I was always looking for someone with cerebral palsy, someone like me. And I used to be so proud of my condition once I understood what it was. Yet I was taught nothing less, my mother, father and close family were so proud of me. The teaching makes me reflect on many other children and I believe that our society plays a critical role in ensuring children with cerebral palsy are proud of themselves.
Notably the foundations for children with cerebral palsy are established by the family- the mother/father/caregivers. They are loved just as they are, accepted and treasured. Their self-esteem and self-concept is built. Depending on the situation and environment, children with cerebral palsy often get a fair beginning until exposed to society, where they often face stigma and discrimination. Our society is yet to accept and accommodate them as they are. The stigma and discrimination hinders from accessing life opportunities, as they often are denied appropriate healthcare, education, employment, and social participation.
We must strive to end biased mindsets and attitudes that limit and exclude. Beyond celebrating people with cerebral palsy, we must go a step further and create inclusive spaces for them. We are here, we are proud to be here. Society now needs to play its role in embracing people with cerebral palsy.
Maria Njeri