6 October is World Cerebral Palsy Day
Today is World Cerebral Palsy Day and people everywhere are celebrating with #BeGreenAndSeen. Photo courtesy of our friends from Cerebral Palsy Society New Zealand.
Cerebral Palsy/Hōkai Nukurangi is a physical disability that affects movement and posture. It is an umbrella term that refers to a group of disorders affecting a person’s ability to move.
According to the Cerebral Palsy Society, around 10,000 people in Aotearoa New Zealand live with cerebral palsy (CP), each with their own strengths, challenges, and ways of navigating the world.
This diversity is something to value and celebrate. But despite this, myths and assumptions still get in the way of seeing the whole person.
Let’s take a moment to set the record straight.
Myth 1: Cerebral Palsy is the same for everyone
Fact: Cerebral Palsy is a spectrum. It affects people in different ways and to varying degrees. Some may have mild movement difficulties, while others may have more complex support needs.
Myth 2: Cerebral Palsy gets worse over time
Fact: Cerebral Palsy is not progressive. The brain injury that causes Cerebral Palsy doesn’t worsen with age. However, symptoms can change over a lifetime due to factors like general health, ageing, and other conditions. Supporting good physical health can help maintain a person’s mobility and comfort.
Myth 3: People with Cerebral Palsy can’t live independently
Fact: Many adults with Cerebral Palsy live independently. Others may need some assistance. Independence can be supported through assistive technology, workplace modifications, personal care, and other supports.
Myth 4: People with Cerebral Palsy can’t be supported
Fact: They can. There are not-for-profits like Cerebral Palsy Society of New Zealand who work alongside people with CP, their whānau, and communities and connect them to supports, tools, and opportunities they need.
You can also refer a person with CP to us. As Auckland’s Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) provider, we can help people and their whānau access Disability Support Services (DSS) funded by the Ministry of Social Development.
Just complete our referral form on the website and include a report or clinical letter from your doctor or another health professional.
Read Jason’s story, a super sociable and determined individual with Cerebral Palsy. His story is one of resilience, growth and new found indepedence.