Reaching New Heights for Cerebral Palsy

On World Cerebral Palsy Day, I’m climbing the O2 with UP – The Adult Cerebral Palsy Movement to raise money and awareness for adults living with Cerebral Palsy.

I climbed the O2 once before, back in 2014. At the time, I had no idea that 12 years later I would be returning to the same place, but this time with a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy and a much greater understanding of my own body.

I was diagnosed with mild Spastic Cerebral Palsy as an adult. For much of my life, I didn’t have the words to explain why certain things were harder for me than they seemed to be for everyone else.

My CP mainly affects my right side, particularly my leg and ankle, and I can experience stiffness, tightness, aches, spasms and fatigue.

Things like walking longer distances, climbing stairs and walking on uneven ground can take more energy and effort than they might for someone without CP. I also experience some difficulties with my right arm and hand, which can make everyday tasks more tiring.

Because my CP is mild and isn’t always visible, it isn’t always obvious when I’m struggling or when something is taking more effort than it appears. Sometimes I need to slow down, take a break, adapt how I do something or listen to what my body is telling me.

I am learning to understand my body, listen to it, adapt when I need to and celebrate the things I can do even when they take a little more effort.

Adults with CP can face lifelong challenges, yet adult Cerebral Palsy healthcare and support still have a long way to go. That’s one reason UP means so much to me. UP is working to make sure adults with CP are seen, heard and properly supported throughout their lives.

The minimum fundraising target is £50, but I’ve set myself a personal goal of £250, and I’d love to see if I can reach it!

Every donation does make a difference. Even £1 can help. You don’t need to make a big donation to be part of this challenge; lots of small donations can add up to something incredible.

If you can’t donate, sharing my fundraising page or telling someone about UP and the work they do would also make a huge difference- it helps us climb higher for adults with Cerebral Palsy.

Thank you for supporting me and for helping me make every step of this challenge count :)

If you’d like to learn more about UP – The Adult Cerebral Palsy Movement, the work they do and why supporting adults with Cerebral Palsy matters, please visit their website:

⁠UP – The Adult Cerebral Palsy Movement