My Journey with Cerebral Palsy: A Story of Determination and Passion
As we mark Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, I am honoured to share my journey with CP – a journey that has shaped my life in more ways than I could have ever imagined.
Diagnosed as a baby 39 years ago, CP has been an integral part of my story. It is the reason I live in the UK today, a country I deeply love and respect. It has brought me lifelong friendships, opportunities, and a profound sense of purpose.
Breaking Barriers in Education
At just three years old, I met my closest friends in a special school. However, at age five, I became part of a pioneering generation — the first wave of disabled children granted access to mainstream education. Our parents fought tirelessly to have our intelligence recognised and our right to learn alongside our peers upheld. Their persistence paid off, and I embraced the opportunity with everything I had.
While striving academically, I also focused on learning to walk unaided, a goal I proudly achieved at the age of eight. My passion for English fuelled my academic journey, leading me to complete GCSEs, A-Levels, and ultimately, a degree in English.
A Career Built on Advocacy and Storytelling
For the past 16 years, I have worked as a journalist specialising in disability issues. I founded my own website, Same Difference, where I write about topics affecting the wider disability community. Additionally, I have published two poetry collections — one of which explores themes of disability — and both are available on Amazon.
Beyond journalism, I have had the privilege of working with two remarkable CP charities: The Nihal Armstrong Trust and The National Bobath Cerebral Palsy Centre. While both have sadly closed, their impact on my life has been immeasurable. The Bobath Centre, in particular, provided me with life-changing treatment and later, my first role in charity fundraising — a career shift I cherish deeply. Fundraising allows me to channel my experiences into meaningful change, leveraging my natural empathy for others facing challenges.
A Passionate Advocate for Change
Living with CP has shaped my worldview, making me deeply political. I believe that advocating for disability rights is essential, and I am committed to raising awareness and pushing for inclusivity. Outside of my advocacy, I am an avid reader and a lover of a great love story.
A Message for the CP Community
I recognise that every journey with CP is unique, and that’s perfectly okay. What unites us is our right to pursue our passions, with whatever support we need to thrive. I want young people with CP, and their families, to know that while challenges exist, they do not define our potential. With perseverance and the right support, we can achieve anything we set our minds to.
I owe so much to my parents, whose unwavering support has been my foundation. Parent carers are unsung heroes — advocates, cheerleaders, and pillars of strength. Their dedication deserves the highest recognition.
Whatever your journey with CP looks like, celebrate every milestone, embrace your abilities, and find joy in the journey. We are capable, we are strong, and we deserve every opportunity to succeed.
Connecting with CPotential
“Meeting CPotential has been an incredible experience. It is a privilege to be given the opportunity to write and share my story with their community, and I am thrilled to be volunteering as part of an upcoming exciting campaign. The work CPotential does to support individuals with CP is truly inspiring, and I am excited to contribute in any way I can.” Sarah Ismail
Click here to visit Sarah’s website Same Difference.
Click here to find out more about Cerebral Palsy symptoms and how CPotential can help.
