A life of resilience; breaking barriers of Cerebral Palsy

Early childhood development stands as the cornerstone of every individual’s life, profoundly shaping our adulthood through the lens of our formative experiences.

However, in life, we encounter a myriad of challenges, some of which surpass our comprehension and ability to intervene.

Liam’s journey through cerebral palsy

In the serene landscapes of Siaya County, Kenya, nestled amidst the vibrant community, lives Liam Agolla, a four-year-old child brimming with boundless energy and an infectious zest for life. Despite having cerebral palsy, Liam’s spirit knows no bounds, painting his world with colors of resilience and joy.

The beloved firstborn of Hellen Atieno Agolla and John Peter Agolla epitomizes their deep affection and hopes. They see in him the promise of a future where he emerges as a dedicated individual, driven by unwavering determination, boundless zeal, and the capacity to enact positive change within society.

His mother recounts the challenging circumstances surrounding his birth; “During delivery, I endured a prolonged and difficult labor. Upon examination, the doctors discovered that the pregnancy was breech, necessitating an unplanned cesarean section. Despite the unexpected events, I gave birth to a healthy baby boy,”

However, their joy was short-lived as the baby frequently fell ill. After numerous check-ups, they received the devastating diagnosis of cerebral palsy (CP). This news shattered their hearts, compounded by the realization of the financial strain it would impose on them. They had no choice but to confront the challenges head-on.

Father’s presence in the life of a child with disability

They opted for medical attention including therapy sessions, which placed a significant strain on their finances, eventually prompting them to relocate to their rural home due to financial constraints. It was during this challenging period that they discovered Cheshire Disability Services Kenya’s Parents’ STEPs Training, through the IECDE project. This program guided them through essential techniques for caring for their baby with Cerebral Palsy (CP), including feeding, handling, massaging, and engaging with their child.

The father was particularly diligent in following the steps outlined in the training and implementing them into their daily routine. He consistently accompanied his wife to each session, driven by his deep love and care for his family. Embracing the advice of the occupational therapist wholeheartedly, he demonstrated unwavering perseverance. As a result, Liam began to achieve remarkable milestones: his neck stability improved, and he gained the ability to face up, walk, and talk.

“I want to be fully involved in my son’s life because I love him, in every step of the therapy sessions I would go with her mother,” said Liam’s father.

Inclusive Education

Liam’s parents wholeheartedly embraced their son’s condition of having cerebral palsy (CP). They have enrolled him in an integrated school, taking advantage of the government’s initiative to promote inclusive learning for learners with disabilities. Liam cooperates effectively with his peers, engaging in activities and forming bonds with others. His ability to scribble and play alongside his classmates showcases his enthusiasm for learning and his genuine love for school.

Liam’s teacher, Mrs. Angeline Owiti fondly describes him as a cheerful and kind-hearted young boy, noting his ability to effortlessly blend colors on paper and engage with his peers. The teacher also commended Liam’s parents for their unwavering dedication to nurturing his growth and ensuring his holistic development.

“Liam’s parents have embraced the importance of providing him with the necessary support to explore his potential, they have accepted the boy and cooperated with me in seeing Liam’s development in school. I firmly believe in the bright future ahead for this remarkable young boy,” the teacher remarked optimistically.

Expressing gratitude, Liam’s father acknowledged the transformative impact of the CDSK’s Inclusive Early Childhood Development Education (IECDE project) on his son’s life, emphasizing the importance of parental guidance and support. He urged other parents not to confine children with disabilities within the confines of their homes but to seek the necessary treatments to empower them to lead dignified and resilient lives.

“If I had hidden my child in the house, he could not have achieved all these milestones and he could not have been going to school,” he echoed

Additionally, he stressed the significance of early visits to antenatal clinics for timely identification and intervention if any issues arise, underscoring the critical role parents play in their children’s well-being from the earliest stages of development.”

colors of resilience

Defying the limitations that society seeks to impose upon him, the world is witnessing the beauty of diversity and the strength found in embracing one’s unique journey, through the eyes of Liam. Thanks to the parents’ dedication and the support of the program, Liam is now thriving in school, bringing immense joy to his family