October 6th is World Cerebral Palsy Day, a movement that celebrates individuals living with cerebral palsy in over 100 countries. Started in 2012, World Cerebral Palsy Day is an opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for children and adults living with cerebral palsy to ensure that they have the same rights, access, and opportunities as everyone else.
Cerebral palsy is an umbrella term for a number of permanent disorders that impair the brain’s control of some muscles related to movement and posture, which can affect a person’s balance, posture, and ability to move. Most cases of cerebral are related to brain injuries that occur either before, during, or within a few weeks of birth. As a result, children with cerebral palsy may also experience other challenges, such as seizures or problems with sensation, perception, communication, learning, and behaviour. Cerebral palsy is the most common physical disability diagnosed in children in Canada. There are more than 75,000 Canadians living with cerebral palsy today.
Each case of cerebral palsy is different and each person’s experience of life with cerebral palsy is unique. Some people with cerebral palsy experience very mild symptoms, while others experience more serious symptoms, such as difficulties speaking or moving, and may require assistance with daily living.
Federated Health Charities has worked with the Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy (OCFP) to support the independence, inclusion, and integration of all persons with cerebral palsy since 1988. The OFCP provides people with cerebral palsy, their families, and caregivers with programs and services, ranging from inclusive and supportive education and recreation programs for children, to help with housing and life planning. These programs are funded almost entirely through the collection and resale of used clothing and other goods, and donations from organizations like Federated Health Charities.
On World Cerebral Palsy Day, donate to Federated Health Charities to help ensure that children and adults with cerebral palsy have the same rights, access, and opportunities as everyone else.
Learn more about the Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy at The Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy (ofcp.ca).
Donate to Federated Health Charities to support a healthier Ontario and a future of independence, inclusion, choice, and full integration for all persons with cerebral palsy.