Spread the Word: March Is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disability that affects thousands of children and adults worldwide. March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, which allows us to celebrate and educate others about the disorder.

With so many disabilities in the world, cerebral palsy often is easily pushed to the back of people’s minds. But it affects so many people and is more common than what one might think. In March, we celebrate with the color green as a new generation arises with cerebral palsy.

Not everyone has cerebral palsy in the same way, but we do have similarities. Muscle movement and coordination are usually affected. Posture and speech impediments are almost similar, but the differences are in the details. The best way to know how cerebral palsy affects a person is to talk to them. Feel free to get to know who they are, and you will gain insight into how their disability affects them.

Green is the color of cerebral palsy awareness. Every disability or cause has a color. For example, heart disease is red, breast cancer is pink, childhood cancer is yellow, and cerebral palsy is green. Why is green the color of cerebral palsy awareness? Green is associated with new growth, vibrant lives, and renewal of life. Because thousands of children are affected by cerebral palsy, and a new generation of adults is navigating the world of this disorder, green seems to be the perfect match!

Not so long ago, if someone had cerebral palsy, the age expectancy didn’t surpass 40 years old. Times have definitely changed as adults with cerebral palsy are living much longer and healthier lives. The healthcare industry has changed with the times, too, and hopefully, it will continue to do so. In my opinion, a main reason why people with disabilities live longer is that the quality of life has greatly improved with technology, health management, and independent living.

A person living with even the most severe cerebral palsy can now live independently, work, and make their own decisions. They have the ability to live separately from family members who might grow weary physically from helping with care. An adult has the freedom to decide how they want to live and where they wish to go.

Personal attendant care has greatly improved the lives of many and given adults their lives back to fulfill more of their potential. Hopefully, personal care waivers that pay attendants in each state will not disappear due to budget cuts, as that could drastically affect the health of thousands.

A new generation of children also is growing up with cerebral palsy. These children are living in a new world of technology, advances in therapies, surgery options, inclusion, fewer barriers to break through, and more acceptance than anyone with cerebral palsy has encountered in the past. With all of these advancements, more choices exist for these children than ever before. A child with cerebral palsy still will face many challenges, but personal goals are obtainable.

So this March, please remember that green isn’t just for St. Patrick’s Day. Green is for the beautiful past and future for adults and children with cerebral palsy! Let others know something about cerebral palsy and spread awareness so that the future will become even brighter.

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Note: Cerebral Palsy News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cerebral Palsy News Today or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to cerebral palsy.