March 25 marks the 20th anniversary of Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day. Established in 2006, the day was created by families of individuals with CP to highlight the need for increased research and improved medical care for those living with the condition. Two decades later, that mission remains just as urgent.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines cerebral palsy (CP) as “a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture.” The condition is caused by damage to one or more areas of the developing brain, most often before or during birth. While CP is primarily known as a motor disorder, its impact can extend far beyond movement. It may also affect speech, hearing, vision, bone health, cognition, and mental health.
Cerebral palsy affects more than 1 million Americans and over 17 million people worldwide, making it the most common motor disability. But statistics only tell part of the story. CP is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Some individuals experience mild symptoms and live largely independent lives, while others require significant support with daily activities. What unites them is not a single experience, but a shared need for understanding, access, and opportunity. As of now, there is no cure for CP, but early intervention, therapies, and assistive technologies can significantly improve quality of life.
Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day offers an opportunity for learning and advocacy. Increasing awareness helps break down stereotypes and create a more inclusive society. It also helps bring attention to the voices of people with CP and their families, whose lived experiences play a critical role in shaping better policies, services, and supports. There are many meaningful ways to participate:
- Wear green on March 25. Green symbolizes growth, resilience, and hope.
- Share your story or amplify others’ voices on social media using the hashtag #GoGreen4CP. Personal stories can challenge misconceptions and build empathy.
- Educate yourself. Books such as Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist by Judy Heumann, Cerebral Palsy: A Complete Guide for Caregiving by Freeman Miller, and A Muddy Life: A Mom and Son’s Differing Perspectives on Living with Cerebral Palsy by Ruth Grant-Bailey offer valuable insights.
- Help dispel myths. Talk with friends, family, and colleagues about what CP is and isn’t. Awareness begins with conversations.
- Support reputable organizations such as the Cerebral Palsy Foundation and United Cerebral Palsy, which fund research, provide resources, and advocate for the CP community.
- Advocate for change. Contact elected officials to support funding for research, accessible healthcare, and strong disability rights protections.
Perhaps most importantly, don’t let your awareness begin and end on March 25. True progress comes from sustained attention and action. By continuing to learn, listen, and advocate throughout the year, we can help create a world in which people with cerebral palsy are not only supported, but fully included and valued.
