Angela Phiri
BY NYARADZO CHITUNGO
March is recognised globally as Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month. This month-long observance aims to raise awareness, promote critical research and advocate for a more inclusive world.
According to Cerebral Palsy Guide, Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurological condition caused by early brain damage, leading to challenges with movement, posture and muscle control.
Angela’s story
Angela Phiri, 43, who lives in Bulawayo, encounters numerous challenges from day to day.
One of the most significant obstacles Angela encounters is verbal communication. Her speech impairment often leads to people not comprehending the messages she tries conveying thereby, causing frustration and social isolation. Furthermore, Angela has faced perennial dating challenges due to her disability. CP seems to identify her as far as her love life is concerned, but that in itself does not break her spirit.
A particularly concerning issue Angela faces is the lack of respect and recognition as an equally intelligent human being in her family. She recalls an instance where her one of her kith and kin suggested she undergoes a hysterectomy (a surgical procedure to remove her uterus) to prevent pregnancy, a development she found debasing and dehumanising.
“Some of the biggest obstacles I have always faced are people trying to make decisions for me, especially when it comes to my own body. For instance, someone suggested that I should have my uterus removed in case I might want to have a baby,” she shares.
However, Angela refuses to let her condition deter her. She is a social butterfly and does chores both at home and at church.
“Having cerebral palsy is not a limitation. I essentially focus on abilities, rather than disabilities.” she emphasises with her face glowing with confidence.
CP is the most common motor disability in childhood, with symptoms varying significantly among individual.
World CP Day states that every 14 minutes, a child is born with Cerebral Palsy and it affects approximately 17 million people worldwide, which is more than the population of many countries.
Types of Cerebral Palsy
i) Spastic Cerebral Palsy is characterised by stiff muscles and increased muscle tone leading to stiffness and involuntary movements.
ii) Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy is marked by uncontrollable movements such as twisting or jerking and fluctuations in muscle tone.
iii) Athetoid Cerebral Palsy is a mix of spastic and dyskinetic symptoms with both stiff and uncontrollable movements.
iv) Hypotenic Cerebral Palsy is characterised by low muscle tone that leads to flopiness and difficulties with movement.
v) Ataxic Cerebral Palsy is characterised by poor coordination, balance and depth perception.
Causes
Majority (85-99%) of CP is congenital, occurring before (during brain development) or during birth. Acquired CP is less common and often linked to infections or head injuries after birth.
Treatment
Despite being a non-progressive and incurable condition, treatment is available to help manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and enhance overall quality of life.
Expert insight
Mr Precious Madzimbe, a Peadiatric Physiotherapist, elaborated that “Cerebral Palsy is a medical condition, not spiritual punishment. Some families believe CP results from curses, witchcraft, or ancestral displeasure.
“This misconception can lead to stigma and exclusion of the child from medical and rehabilitation services. Some parents may abandon therapy, believing traditional remedies alone will cure the child. Combining cultural support with medical intervention ensures better outcomes.”
Madzimbe called for engagement with community support systems, extended families, religious leaders, and community health workers who can help provide care and reduce stigma by raising awareness about Cerebral Palsy.
“Children with CP can improve significantly with early intervention, therapy, and assistive devices. Many children with CP grow up to attend school, work, and even start families if given the right support. CP can be managed with early diagnosis, therapy, and family support. By combining modern medicine with cultural sensitivity, we can ensure that children with CP receive the care and dignity they deserve,” Mr Madzimbe emphasised.
