World Cerebral Palsy Day: Taking Action for a Brighter Future
The 13th annual World Cerebral Palsy Day is taking place on October 6, 2024.
Not only is this the perfect day to recognize the 18 million people who live with cerebral palsy (CP) worldwide, but it’s also a day for everyone to take action by spreading awareness and supporting the cause.
This day is about inclusion and celebrating the diverse contributions of people with cerebral palsy who work in all fields, from banking to entertainment, enriching our communities every day.
Raising awareness around CP helps get organizations involved and raise money to fund new research and treatments.
Learn more about how you can make a difference on World Cerebral Palsy Day 2024.
“As a person with cerebral palsy who walks with crutches, people have the assumption that I've had to overcome a lot of obstacles in my life because of it, and to some degree, I have. However, the most difficult obstacle to overcome is other people's perception of who a person with a disability is.”
- Greg Walloch, comedian and storyteller with cerebral palsy
Understanding Cerebral Palsy: 5 Key Facts You Should Know
Learning about cerebral palsy can help you spread awareness more effectively.
Here are five important facts about cerebral palsy:
- CP is the most common childhood disability, affecting 1 in 345 children.
- Approximately 1 million people in America and 18 million worldwide have CP.
- Among those with CP, 75% experience chronic pain and 25% are non-verbal.
- CP is not progressive, meaning it does not get worse over time.
- The five types of CP include spastic, dyskinetic, ataxic, hypotonic, and mixed.
In addition to learning the facts about CP, attending cerebral palsy events is another great way to raise awareness.
What Cerebral Palsy Events Can You Attend?
A wide range of events are held in support of cerebral palsy, including several leading up to World Cerebral Palsy Day in October.
For example, road races like fun runs and 5Ks create opportunities for caregivers and others to come together and raise funds for CP research.
These races cater to a range of skill levels:
- The Hops for Hope 5K in St. Charles, IL on October 5, 2024
- No Limits 5K Walk & Roll in San Diego, CA on October 26, 2024
Wherever you are on World Cerebral Palsy Day 2024, show your support by wearing green.
Sharing a photo with a cerebral palsy green ribbon and using hashtags like #UniquelyCP, #WorldCerebralPalsyDay, #WorldCPDay, or #MillionsOfReasons helps spread awareness online.
How to Support Caregivers of Children with CP
Parents of children with cerebral palsy dedicate much of their time to daily care. It is vital for parents and caregivers to find moments to rest and maintain both their physical and emotional well-being.
If you are close to a family affected by cerebral palsy, see if you can step in for a few hours while primary caregivers take time to recharge.
Several organizations offer support to caregivers, like A Mother's Rest, which coordinates retreats specifically for parents of children with disabilities.
Supporting organizations that assist caregivers is a meaningful way to recognize those who dedicate themselves to caring for a child with cerebral palsy.
Donate Time or Money to Cerebral Palsy Organizations
When making a donation to a cerebral palsy organization, it's important to ensure the group is reputable and your contribution is used effectively.
Reputable cerebral palsy organizations include:
When donating to one of these nonprofit groups, you help fund after-school care for children, adult daycare, and various programs that improve the lives of people with cerebral palsy.
You might also consider donating to a research facility focused on new cerebral palsy treatments and potential cures.
“Living with cerebral palsy has profoundly shaped my identity. Despite the challenges, these experiences have also filled me with pride and inner strength.”
- Amie Kroessig, advocate on living with cerebral palsy
Making a Difference on World Cerebral Palsy Day
Every lap run and event attended on World Cerebral Palsy Day makes a difference. Raising awareness of cerebral palsy helps to fund treatments and teaches others about the lifestyles and challenges of those who live with it.
If you or a loved one lives with cerebral palsy, your efforts don’t have to end with World CP Day. Feel free to continue helping people with CP by supporting the community and spreading awareness to others.
Cerebral Palsy Guide is here to empower, support, and connect those affected by CP. Together, we can create lasting change and brighter futures.
Written by:Cerebral Palsy GuideCerebral Palsy Guide was founded upon the goal of educating families about cerebral palsy, raising awareness, and providing support for children, parents, and caregivers affected by the condition. Our easy-to-use website offers simple, straightforward information that provides families with medical and legal solutions. We are devoted to helping parents and children access the tools they need to live a life full of happiness
