March recognizes Cerebral Palsy (CP) Awareness Month. It is a time dedicated to increasing understanding of CP, celebrating the CP community and advocating for greater inclusion.
Easterseals PORT Health (ESPH)is an affiliate of United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), whose mission is to promote the independence and inclusion of people with cerebral palsy, intellectual, developmental and other disabilities through its network of affiliates and partnerships.
Kase
Cerebral palsy affects how the brain controls movement and muscles. It can affect balance, coordination, posture and mobility. It’s the most common motor disability in children and no two people experience CP the same way.
We are proud to highlight Kase, who has CP and participates in our Individual + Community Service program in Salisbury, NC. Kase and his mom share their experiences and how ESPH supports them. “Cerebral Palsy does not define who I am. It has changed how I do things and move around, but I’m determined to conquer anything thrown my way,” says Kase. “I find joy in my animals. I have a dog, cat, five goats and one donkey. I also love playing on my iPad and fist bumping everyone I meet.”
ESPH’s Individual + Community Services provides support for people with disabilities (including CP) by helping them with skill development. This allows for greater independence and for individuals to thrive in their communities. “Being a part of ICS has helped me become more independent. This looks different for many people,” says Kase. “For me, independence means helping my mom with dressing and bathing myself and also helping out with chores like vacuuming.”
“ICS has helped Kase become more involved in the community,” his mom shares. “There was a time where he wasn’t interested in socializing with others. Now he cannot go anywhere without high-fiving or fist-bumping everyone who walks by! It is his way of saying hello to everyone.”
Why is it important to recognize Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month?
“It is important to celebrate Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month as it shows the world that we may be different, but we are not less,” shares Kase. “We should recognize the month to make people aware of this disability, which is not a disease.”
“This awareness month is important for so many reasons. CP affects each person differently,” says Kase’s mom. “It’s important to remember that having a disability is not something you should feel embarrassed about, but rather embrace. Individuals with disabilities are the coolest people!”
Learn more at eastersealsPORT.com/cerebral-palsy-services.
ABOUT US
Easterseals PORT Health is a trustworthy, compassionate partner providing exceptional disability, mental health and substance use services to help our neighbors live their best lives. Purpose, dedication and empathy drive our in-person and telehealth service delivery. Our diverse and inclusive 2,600 member team provides more than 10.2 million hours of meaningful support to 40,200 kids, adults and families in 11,000 home, facility and community locations across North Carolina and Virginia. Learn more at eastersealsPORT.com.
