Every year, we observe cerebral palsy awareness month to educate people about cerebral palsy that affect millions of individuals.

Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month is a time dedicated to raising understanding, compassion, and support for persons living with Cerebral Palsy. This period provides an opportunity for individuals, families and communities to reflect on how society treats people with cerebral palsy and how we can build a more inclusive and supportive environment for them.

In many parts of the world, especially in African societies, disability is often misunderstood due to some cultural beliefs, lack of awareness, and limited access to public education with regards to Cerebral Palsy. These misconceptions sometimes lead to stigma, discrimination, and social exclusion of persons living with Cerebral Palsy. However, it is important to understand that cerebral palsy is not a disease that spreads from person to person. Rather, it is a neurological condition that affects movement, muscle coordination, and posture due to damage to the developing brain, usually before, during, or shortly after birth.

Understanding this difference is crucial because it helps change the way society perceives persons with cerebral palsy. When people see cerebral palsy as a disease, they may treat those living with the condition with fear or pity, but when society understands that it is simply a condition that affects physical movement, it becomes easier to focus on the abilities, strengths, and potential of individuals living with it.

Persons with cerebral palsy possess talents, intelligence, creativity, and ambitions just like any other person in society. Unfortunately, many of these talents remain hidden because society often focuses on their physical limitations rather than their capabilities. This is why awareness is extremely important. Communities must learn to create opportunities that allow persons with cerebral palsy to develop their skills, showcase their talents, and contribute meaningfully to society.

In Africa, there is an urgent need to change the traditional mentality surrounding disability. In some communities, families with children who have disabilities face stigma, isolation, and emotional stress because of negative societal attitudes. Some parents are made to feel ashamed or hopeless about their child’s future. This harmful perception must change. Disability should never be seen as a curse or punishment Instead, it should be understood as a natural part of human diversity.

The concept of promoting my upcoming book The African mentality on disability aims to challenge these outdated beliefs and replace them with hope, acceptance, and empowerment. It encourages society to see children with disabilities as individuals with potential and purpose rather than as burdens. By promoting this positive mindset, communities can create supportive environments where children with cerebral palsy can grow, learn, and thrive.

 By: George Best Akuffo Baah (An actor in YOLO TV series)