World Cerebral Palsy Day – 6 October
World Cerebral Palsy Day is observed annually on October 6.
This day is dedicated to raising awareness about Cerebral Palsy (CP), a disorder affecting movement and posture caused by brain damage during birth or while a child’s brain is developing.
What is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral Palsy is a condition caused by brain damage that occurs either in the womb, during birth, or after birth.
The muscle control problem will lead to difficulties in maintaining posture, movement, and body balance.
Children with Cerebral Palsy face limitations in playing, exploring their environment, and functioning normally due to this disorder.
These children struggle to move their muscles precisely to position and maintain correct body posture, increasing the risk of permanent physical disabilities.
The situation becomes more complicated if primitive reflexes, which should disappear by a certain age, persist.
History of World Cerebral Palsy Day
World Cerebral Palsy Day was introduced in 2012 by a coalition of more than 270 organizations from over 60 countries.
Its goal is to create a global voice that can significantly impact the lives of individuals with Cerebral Palsy.
Around 17 million people worldwide live with Cerebral Palsy, and each year, nearly 350 million people are directly or indirectly affected by the condition, including families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
The Goals and Objective
1. Raising Awareness. The day aims to spread information and educate the public about Cerebral Palsy, including the challenges faced by those living with the condition. This awareness is vital because Cerebral Palsy is one of the most common neurological disorders in children.
2. Advocating for Rights. It also focuses on advocating for the rights of individuals with Cerebral Palsy, including better access to education, employment, healthcare, and a more inclusive society.
3. Promoting Innovation. World Cerebral Palsy Day encourages innovation and technology that can improve the quality of life for individuals with Cerebral Palsy. This includes mobility aids and communication technologies.
4. Building Community. The day provides an opportunity for the global community—patients, families, researchers, medical professionals, and volunteers—to unite in solidarity, share experiences, and discuss the latest research and best practices in treating Cerebral Palsy.
Event organized by GAPS Gabungan Anak-Anak Palsi Serebrum
Symbolism and Theme
The color green is often used as a symbol of solidarity for Cerebral Palsy awareness. Various events are organized on this day, such as public awareness campaigns, educational workshops, and fundraising activities to support research and provide assistance to those involved.
Overall, World Cerebral Palsy Day serves as a moment to build a more understanding, inclusive, and supportive world for people living with Cerebral Palsy and their families.
Sources: worldcpday.org, myhealth.gov.my
