Myself & Kieran will be running the 2023 Edinburgh Half Marathon for Cerebral Palsy Scotland!  Our son Joseph was diagnosed with dyskinetic cerebal palsy in June last year. An MRI at birth had shown permanent brain damage due to lack of oxygen. 

💚Cerebral palsy is the name for a group of lifelong conditions that affect movement and co-ordination. It's caused by damage to the brain before, during or soon after birth. In Joseph's case this happened during birth.

Cerebral palsy is the most common physical disability in childhood, and around one in 500 births results in a diagnosis of CP.

There are many symptoms that a person can have due to CP. CP effects Joseph on a daily basis. His fine motor skills in his hands have been effected but Joseph has received occupational therapy since he was two years old. His mouth muscles have also been effected which means Joseph cannot communicate verbally as well as others may. Joseph has been supported by speech and language and has learnt sign language as another way to communicate since he was little and is always making progress.

He is such an amazing determined boy who never gives up no matter what challenge he is faced with. We hope this helps raise awareness and support for other children and families! And also help other children understand why some children are different and that its okay to ask questions and open up the conversation, we are always happy to share our experience and help others too 🤍

💚If we raise £150, you could contribute to a specialist therapy session for a child or adult with cerebral palsy.   

💚If we raise £300, you could help update their website information and support directory for new parents as they navigate their child’s diagnosis.

💚If we raise £500, you could help replenish and upkeep their equipment such as adaptive toys to enable children to play with toys for the first time, or specialist equipment such as hoists, plinths, mobility devices, communication aids and equipment used for therapy.

 Thank you 💚