The 2nd of October is World Cerebral Palsy Day and our charity often supplies people with the condition, with communication aids. Cerebral Palsy is a complex, lifelong disability that primarily affects movement, but can cause issues with visuals, learning, hearing, speech and intellect. Symptoms can be mild, such as a weakness in one limb, to severe with some people having very little control over their movement and requiring 24-hour assistance.

The Sequal Trust often supplies communication aids to people with more severe cerebral palsy, who have little to no speech ability. However, cerebral palsy symptoms can deteriorate over time, so it is not uncommon for people with the condition to lose their ability to walk or talk despite the initial onset being mild. This can happen over a long period, or quite rapidly and every case is different.

Many of our patrons that have cerebral palsy also have restricted movement and rely on communication aids equipped with eye gaze technology, allowing them to use their eyes for control as opposed to their hands.

The condition is caused by problems with brain development before birth, or the brain being starved of oxygen during or shortly after birth. There is currently no cure for cerebral palsy but there are treatment options available that aim to reduce the symptoms and help those with the condition to live more independently. Some people respond well to physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and medications to help with muscle stiffness.

Our charity works hard to supply communication aids to those with cerebral palsy, and we’re constantly working to raise awareness of the condition. We would like to encourage all of our supporters, members and readers to take some time on World Cerebral Palsy Day, to raise awareness of your own either through fundraising or just discussing and learning more about the condition.

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