4 Ways to Show Your Support on World Cerebral Palsy Day 2022

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Started by the Cerebral Palsy Alliance in 2012, World Cerebral Palsy Day is celebrated each year on October 6. During this 11th annual commemoration, we are reminded that there are many individuals and families who need our support. According to the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation, 18 million people worldwide have cerebral palsy, nearly 800,000 of whom live in the United States.

Learn how to show your support on World Cerebral Palsy Day below.

1. Learn About Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a physical disability that affects movement and posture, and it can impact the body and brain in different ways. It is caused by abnormal brain development or brain damage and limits a person’s ability to control their muscles.

If someone you know has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, try to research the condition in more detail. This can help you become a stronger advocate and better support system.

2. Participate in Events That Help Support Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy organizations depend on your support to fund research, sponsor programs, and help those with this incurable condition. Participating in a fun event on World Cerebral Palsy Day is a great way to meet others who are equally passionate about the cause.

Here are some events you can participate in this year:

  • 5K runs/walks: 5Ks that help raise money for cerebral palsy are incredibly popular, and this year is no exception. For example, the Hops for Hope 5K in Illinois was hosted on October 1. The money raised from this event was used to buy adaptive bikes for those with limited mobility, such as individuals diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
  • Cerebral Palsy Foundation Annual Benefit Gala 2022: This annual event serves as a celebration for those diagnosed with cerebral palsy. This year’s gala will take place on October 6, 2022, in New York.
  • Wear green: As the color of cerebral palsy awareness, wearing green is a fun and easy way to show your support for individuals and families impacted by this condition.

3. Provide Respite for Caregivers

Parents of children with cerebral palsy spend an enormous amount of time providing daily care. It is vital for parents and caregivers to find time to rest and stay physically and emotionally healthy.

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 re-energize.

There are several organizations that also help caregivers take some time for themselves, such as A Mother's Rest, which coordinates retreats exclusively for moms and dads who have loved ones with disabilities.

4. Donate to Cerebral Palsy Charities

When making a donation to a cerebral palsy charity, you want to make sure it goes to a reputable organization.

Notable cerebral palsy organizations include:

When donating to one of these nonprofit groups, you help fund after school care for children, daycare for adults, and a variety of other programs that improve the lives of people with cerebral palsy.

You might also consider donating to a research facility that works on new treatments and possible cures for cerebral palsy. Make sure to ask for a donation receipt for tax purposes if you donate more than $250.

Take Action and Support Cerebral Palsy

World Cerebral Palsy Day 2022 is a way for you and your loved ones to come together for those with cerebral palsy. Whether you, a family member, or a friend has cerebral palsy, this is a great time to take action.

Cerebral 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

  1. Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation. “Cerebral Palsy Facts.” Retrieved from: https://cparf.org/what-is-cerebral-palsy/facts-about-cerebral-palsy/. Accessed on September 26, 2022.
  2. Cerebral Palsy Foundation. “Annual Benefit Gala 2022.” Retrieved from https://www.yourcpf.org/events/gala2022/. Accessed on September 26, 2022.
  3. Hops for Hope 5K. “What is Hops for Hope?” Retrieved from: https://www.hopsforhope5k.com. Accessed on September 26, 2022.