March 1-31

National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

An awareness observance in March raising awareness of cerebral palsy and promoting research and support for affected individuals and families.

Yearly Date

All of March

Observed in

United States

Introduction

March 1 marks the beginning of National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month - a time to celebrate and recognize individuals with cerebral palsy and their families, who are often overlooked. This awareness month is a great opportunity to educate the public about cerebral palsy, its symptoms, causes and treatments. Since the 1950s, medical professionals have been researching this neurological disorder in order to further understand and treat it more effectively. Various national organizations exist today to help those living with cerebral palsy as well as spread awareness about the condition.

National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month Timeline

1860

Cerebral Palsy Discovery

The first description of Cerebral Palsy was recorded by Dr. William John Little, who first recognized the condition and it was later named after him as Little's Disease.

1897

Definition of CP

Austrian neurologist Sigmund Freud first suggested that the condition could be caused by abnormal development before birth.

1940s

United Cerebral Palsy Foundation

United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) Foundation was established to provide services and resources for individuals with CP and their families.

2005

National CP Awareness Day

Senator Robert Casey of Pennsylvania presented the resolution to recognize National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day on March 25.

2013

National CP Awareness Month

The United States Senate unanimously declared March as National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month to raise public awareness about the disorder.

How to Celebrate National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

1 Attend an awareness event

Many events are held throughout the month to raise awareness for Cerebral Palsy. Attend one of these events and show your support.

2 Educate yourself

Read up on Cerebral Palsy and learn more about the condition. Knowledge is power and understanding the condition can help you be a better advocate for those with CP.

3 Donate to research

Make a donation to a charity that is dedicated to researching and finding treatments for CP. Find out which charities are doing the most work in this field and make a contribution.

4 Volunteer your time

Look for local organizations or charities that are specifically devoted to helping those with CP. Many of these organizations need volunteers to help with their many activities and programs.

5 Spread the word

Use social media to spread the word about National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month and share information about CP with your friends and family.

Why National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month is Important

Raising Awareness

National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month is a great opportunity to raise awareness about this condition and spread facts about it. This can help reduce stigma and build support for those affected by it, which in turn helps them lead better lives.

Finding Support

By raising awareness of cerebral palsy, more people are able to find support, resources, and even advice on how to cope with the condition. There are also organizations and charities that offer support on a national, regional and local level.

Improving Quality of Life

Raising awareness of cerebral palsy helps increase access to medical care, education and other services. This ultimately leads to improved quality of life for those affected by or living with this condition.

Holiday Dates

Year	Dates	Days
2023	Mar 1 to 31	Wednesday to Friday
2024	Mar 1 to 31	Friday to Sunday
2025	Mar 1 to 31	Saturday to Monday
2026	Mar 1 to 31	Sunday to Tuesday
2027	Mar 1 to 31	Monday to Wednesday