Hi there! I hope you're doing well. Did you drink enough water today? October 6th, 2022, marks the 10th anniversary of World Cerebral Palsy Day. You're probably wondering what that is - let me explain.

In 2012, the Cerebral Palsy Alliance created World Cerebral Palsy Day, dedicated to individuals with a form of Cerebral Palsy (CP), to celebrate and support each other, while spreading awareness to those unsure of what barriers they face. Without overcomplicating things, Cerebral Palsy is a condition that affects everyone who has it differently, whether that's: speech, breathing, eating, sleeping, or walking. One common trait is gross motor skills. Muscles tend to get very tense, which results in awkward/jerky movements. If we break it down, it'll look something like this: "Cerebral" has to do with the brain. "Palsy" is paralysis or weakness when using various muscles. People born with CP are at premature birth (between 6 - 8 months), although the severities can vary.

CP is one of the least known and understood disabilities worldwide. This day hopes to educate others more on the topic and figure out ways to create a barrierless and accessible world for everyone, disabled or not. Inclusion is such an integral part of society, and at times those individuals who have a disability can feel left out due to several factors: no ramps, narrow doorways/entrances, stairs, tight spaces, certain items being out of reach, lack of automatic doors, etc. The list goes on, but you can start to get the idea. People with disabilities deal with barriers like these every single day. While we're still in 2022, there have been improvements in reducing these barriers to make areas more accessible. However, we can always do more. That's where you come in!

Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation is Canada's largest children's hospital, treating patients with brain injuries and disabilities. Growing up, I've been in and out of Bloorview for school and rehab. Their primary focus is to create better lives for children with disabilities and show them a world of possibility. The confidence I've seen in other individuals with a disability is immeasurable. Yes, they have a condition that they never asked for. Did that stop them from working towards their end goal? Nope.

I'm a big advocate for giving back, so I figured this would be a good time to do so. Since Holland Bloorview has been such massive support over the years, I'd like to support them in their mission to "show a world of possibility." I've set a goal to raise $1,000 from Oct. 6 - Nov. 6 to assist youth with disabilities and show them that they're more than what they realize. Should this goal be met, I'll personally match it to double. If it doesn't reach the allotted amount by November 6, I'll ensure it comes to the desired total. Either way, it's going to happen. Sharing or donating any amount is appreciated, as it will assist in giving the lives of children an equal opportunity.

Disability or not, every individual should have an opportunity to feel accepted in (today's) society and thrive in the best way possible without barriers. Let's do our best to contribute and make it happen, or at the very least, cause a ripple effect for the next generation.