Joseph was born on a bright, crisp spring morning, the first child of his parents Maria, and David. From the moment he arrived, his parents marveled at his tiny hands, his wide eyes full of curiosity. But soon after his birth, a neurologist gently explained that Joseph had cerebral palsy, a condition affecting his movement and muscle coordination.
At first Maria and David felt a mixture of shock, confusion, and fear. They did not know exactly what the future held for their son. Would he be able to walk? Speak? Experience the world in the way they hoped for him? The doctor offered them a plan for therapy and support, but there were still so many unknowns.
As Joseph grew, it became clear that he was a fighter. He had a natural resilience that was evident even in his earliest days. Despite the challenges, he learned to roll over, sit up, and then eventually crawl. Yes… his movements were slower than other children his age, and his muscles did not always cooperate the way he wanted them to, but Joseph never gave up.
At school, Joseph faced another set of obstacles. He was often the last one to finish tasks or to join his friends in activities. His peers, though young and still learning empathy, sometimes did not understand why he moved differently or needed extra time. Some days, Joseph felt the sting of isolation, but other days he felt fierce pride in his progress.
His teachers, however, were incredibly supportive. They encouraged Joseph to explore his interests and provided him with the tools he needed to succeed. His physical therapy sessions helped strengthen his muscles, and with the help of a special wheelchair, Joseph was able to navigate his school with greater ease. But it was not just the physical aspects of therapy that helped him thrive, it was the belief that he could achieve more than he had imagined.
One of Joseph’s greatest interests is drawing. He found comfort in pencils and paper, sketching scenes from his imagination such as forests and oceans, and the adventures he longed to experience. His artwork is full of vivid colors and energy, and his teachers noticed his unique perspective. Joseph’s drawings were displayed in the school’s art show, a moment of triumph that filled his heart with pride. For him, it was not about whether his hands were slow or shaky; it was about expressing his creativity, his dreams.
His parents were his greatest supporters. They never treated him as if his disability defined him. They made sure he had access to everything he needed, whether that meant adjusting his learning materials, researching new therapies, or simply being present at every school event. Maria and David knew Joseph had a future filled with possibility, even if it looked different from what they had initially imagined.
When Joseph reached his teenage years, he became increasingly involved in advocacy for others with disabilities. He spoke at local events, sharing his story with others and made a point to teach his peers about the importance of inclusion. He was determined not only to live fully but also to help others see beyond the limitations of disability and focus on potential. Joseph knew that everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, had something valuable to contribute.
Years later, Joseph graduated from high school with honors, holding his head high and his heart full of pride.
Today Joseph is known for his unique approach to art and his unwavering determination. His journey was not easy, but it was his own. He found strength in the small victories and was never afraid to ask for help when he needed it. He is a beacon of hope for others with cerebral palsy, showing that while the road may be difficult, it is possible to curve your own path, no matter the obstacles.
Joseph’s story is not just one living with cerebral palsy, it is a story of resilience, of embracing life’s challenges with courage and reminding us that potential is not defined by what we can or cannot do, it is about who we are and what we choose to become. He represents the many children born with disabilities in our mind (often left behind in education) by those who, with the right support, can be able to live to their fullest potential and become very important people in society. Zizi Afrique Foundation is a not-for-profit company committed to improving learning outcomes for children and youth furthest behind. Zizi envisions a world where all children and youth learn and thrive. We contribute to the nurturing of a generation of children and youth who are well-equipped with skills for learning, skills for living and skills for working.
Today, we join the world to honor the incredible achievements and contributions of people with disabilities in shaping inclusive, thriving societies. Let’s continue building a world where everyone belongs. Happy International Day of Persons with Disability.
