Children born with cerebral palsy will face many challenges throughout their lives. Cerebral palsy is a condition which affects motor skills and cognitive abilities. Children with CP have difficulty with muscle control and their mobility is impaired, sometimes to be severe degree. This in no way means that these children cannot lead productive lives. In fact, many can accomplish great things.
In addition to the physical obstacles that are put in the path of children suffering from cerebral palsy, there are many social barriers that need to be overcome as well. Children must understand that, while they may be impaired and not like other children, this will not prevent them success in life. History is filled with people with CP who were able to accomplish great things in their lifetimes. The eleventh century scholar and composer Hermann of Reichenau is one example. Hermann was born with CP and had difficulty moving and speaking, yet he composed the beautiful hymn, Alma Redemptoris Mater. In American history, Stephen Hopkins, who signed the Declaration of Independence with some difficulty due to CP, bravely noted at the time, “My hand trembles, my heart does not.” In the last century, Irish writer and painter, Christy Brown overcame his disability to create beautiful works of art.
The number of people who were able to overcome the challenges presented by CP and achieve great things in art, literature, acting and comedy has increased in recent times as the stigma and societal doubt about what children can do has decreased. Children are not limited by cerebral palsy, they are only limited by what they believe they can do. With a healthy environment, excellent therapy, and warm care, a child with a serious disability can thrive and really develop.
