Looking beyond limitations: on embracing the strengths of the cerebral palsy community

The theme for World Cerebral Palsy Day 2025, which falls on October 6, is #UniqueANDUnited. This carries a profound message for all of us—to adopt a perspective that focuses on discovering and celebrating the unique abilities of individuals living with Cerebral Palsy (CP).

Understanding CP

Cerebral Palsy is an umbrella term describing a group of disorders caused by damage to the developing brain, often before or during birth. While CP itself is not progressive, meaning the brain injury does not worsen over time, the individual’s functional abilities may change throughout their lifetime. This dynamic nature of CP highlights the importance of continuous care and adaptive support.

Each child with CP possesses distinct strengths that go beyond their disability. As physicians, therapists, and caregivers, we are called to seek out and nurture what is possible rather than concentrating solely on limitations. M.C. Mathew, a pioneer in child development and rehabilitation services in India, offers a practical and compassionate approach to supporting children with CP. His three-step method begins with identifying the child’s abilities. This is followed by examining boundaries—often treatable conditions such as iron deficiency, recurrent chest infections, or Vitamin D deficiency—that may hinder developmental progress. Finally, he considers concerns that directly impact the child’s function. This comprehensive strategy not only helps unlock the child’s potential but also empowers families to focus on achievable goals and outcomes.

Diagnosis challenges

One of the most significant challenges in countries like ours, compared to developed nations, is the late identification and intervention when it comes to CP. Often, children are diagnosed as late as at five years old, by which time irreversible developmental setbacks may have occurred. This delay underscores the critical need for early screening and proactive intervention. Early identification improves the possibility of better outcomes and functional independence.

It is here that the second part of the theme, “United,” becomes essential—standing together as a community to advocate for children with CP and their families. Unity means fostering inclusion, not only in schools but in all public spaces. Although laws exist that recognise elementary education as a fundamental right, many families face rejection from schools who cite physical disabilities as a barrier. This must change: supportive environments where children with disabilities are integrated into mainstream schools are vital to lay the foundations of acceptance and opportunity.

Barriers to care

Inclusion also remains a challenge beyond education. Parents often encounter barriers when seeking medical care, largely due to a lack of awareness about the diverse needs of children with CP. While many specialised centres provide essential services, children are sometimes confined to these facilities, limiting their social participation and independence. Physical accessibility remains a significant hurdle—mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs can be difficult to use in areas with inadequate infrastructure and poor road conditions.

Advocacy and celebration

As we observe World Cerebral Palsy Day, let us remember our larger mission embodied by the hashtag #UniqueANDUnited: to be mindful of the strengths and needs of children and adults with CP. Together, as a united community, we can promote early identification, advocate for inclusion, improve accessibility, and celebrate the unique contributions of every individual living with Cerebral Palsy. Our collective efforts will help ensure that these individuals are not just seen for their challenges but recognised for their abilities and potential.

(Dr. Vinitha Varghese is with the department of physical medicine & rehabilitation, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore. vinithavarghese.pm@naruvihospitals.com)