BC lights up green to recognize World Cerebral Palsy Day

VANCOUVER, Oct. 5, 2016 /CNW/ - The BC Legislature, Science World, Fitzsimmons Creek Bridge in Whistler and a dozen other landmarks across British Columbia are lighting up green on October 5 in recognition of World Cerebral Palsy Day.

15 cities from Fort St John to Oak Bay, as well as the Government of BC, have proclaimed World Cerebral Palsy Day.

In Fort St John, seven-year-old Wyatt De Groot and his mother Melissa asked for a proclamation at a city council meeting. Wyatt, who lives with CP, told the council, "My leg has been weaker than the other one so I have to put a brace on it to make it feel stronger."

After the meeting Melissa said, "Wyatt was so proud of himself and I was proud of him too."

Dan Chalcraft wrote to his city council to ask them to recognize World CP Day.  "World Cerebral Palsy Day was a great reason to reach out to the city council where I live. Many people don't know what CP is or what it's like to live with CP, so this is an opportunity to raise awareness."

"The goal of World Cerebral Palsy Day is to raise awareness of what it means to live with CP," said Feri Dehdar, Executive Director of the CPABC. "We are proud to see so much of the province go green for CP this year."

Today, World CP Day, the CPABC will share these stories and others through social media. Supporters are encouraged to post selfies of themselves with green landmarks and the hashtag #WorldCPDay.

The Cerebral Palsy Association of BC was started in 1954 by a group of parents who wanted to assist their children living with CP to reach their maximum potential within society. We provide support, education, and information throughout BC. Our Mission is: To raise awareness of Cerebral Palsy in the community; To assist those living with Cerebral Palsy to reach their maximum potential; and To work to see those living with Cerebral Palsy recognize their place as equals in a diverse society.

SOURCE The Cerebral Palsy Association of BC

For further information: Media Inquiries: Feri Dehdar, Executive Director, Cerebral Palsy Association of BC, [phone], 1-800-663-0004, www.bccerebralpalsy.com, [email protected]