World Cerebral Palsy Day: Unique and United

Every year, World Cerebral Palsy (CP) Day reminds me how powerful it can be when we celebrate both individuality and community. As a strong, independent woman and a wheelchair user with cerebral palsy, this day holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just about raising awareness, it’s about recognising the incredible diversity, strength, and unity that exist within the CP community and beyond.

This year’s theme, #UniqueAndUnited, couldn’t be more fitting. Each person with cerebral palsy has their own story, their own journey, their own way of moving through the world both literally and figuratively. CP affects everyone differently. For some, it may mean using a wheelchair, speaking differently, or navigating challenges that most people never have to think twice about. But every one of us has something in common: we adapt, we persevere, and we keep showing up as our authentic selves.

I’ve learned that my wheelchair isn’t a symbol of limitation - it’s a symbol of freedom. It gives me independence, mobility, and the ability to live life on my own terms. That doesn’t mean it’s always easy. There are still barriers, both physical and social, that can make the world harder to navigate. But being a woman with CP has taught me to find strength in every struggle, to use my voice, and to never underestimate the power of being seen.

When people look at me, I want them to see beyond the chair. I want them to see a woman who works hard, laughs loud, loves fiercely, and refuses to be defined by assumptions. My disability is part of who I am it shapes my perspective, fuels my empathy, and connects me to a global community that inspires me everyday.

That’s where “United” comes in. There’s something truly powerful about belonging to a community of people who understand your experiences, even when your journeys look completely different. We may each be unique, but when we come together sharing our stories, celebrating our wins, and advocating for inclusion - we create change. Real change.

Being united means lifting each other up. It means recognising that accessibility, equality, and respect shouldn’t be optional, they’re essential. It means showing the world that people with disabilities are not to be pitied or underestimated, but respected and included. It means standing together to challenge barriers, stereotypes, and silence.

So today, on World Cerebral Palsy Day, I’m celebrating what makes me unique - my journey, my independence, my resilience; all while also standing united with millions around the world who know what it’s like to live with CP.

We are artists, professionals, dreamers, athletes, advocates, and so much more. We’re here, we’re visible, and we’re making a difference.

When we embrace what makes us different and stand together as one voice, that’s when the world truly changes.

💚 Happy World Cerebral Palsy Day to everyone who’s part of this incredible, unstoppable, #UniqueAndUnited community.