Going green in aid of cerebral palsy
Don’t be surprised if you see people sporting green hair, eating green cupcakes, or landmarks around the country turning green during October — it’ll be Kiwis showing their support for those living with cerebral palsy.
This October, the Cerebral Palsy Society of New Zealand is calling on Kiwis to “go green” as part of its annual campaign.
Be Green & Be Seen kicks off on October 1 and aims to raise awareness of cerebral palsy, and funds for programmes that support the society’s members to enjoy active participation and social inclusion.
“In New Zealand, cerebral palsy is the most common cause of physical disability for children, and every three days a baby is born with the neurological condition,” general manager Clare Williams said.
“There are about 10,000 people living with cerebral palsy in New Zealand.
“We’re calling on Kiwis across the motu to celebrate, to embrace diversity, and to help advocate for a more accessible future for everyone.
“We want to encourage people to get creative and come up with green ways to raise awareness and donations.
“Why not host a greenthemed morning tea at work, or at home for family and friends.
“Think spirulina smoothies and green cupcakes, and ask people to make a donation.
“Or have a green-themed mufti day or casual Friday at school or work in return for a gold coin.
“You could be bold and colour your hair green although we definitely recommend temporary products.”
Williams said it would be incredible if artists created green-themed works that they sold in a raffle or by auction to raise funds for the society, or people could do something as simple as running a raffle for a jar of green lollies or hamper of green-themed goodies.
The funds raised during Be Green & Be Seen will contribute to the running of the society’s getProgramme.
The funding programme ensures society members have access to transport, physical activities such as swimming lessons, gym and physio sessions, yoga classes, osteopathy or rehab clinics, as well as counselling and daily essential items that make living life with cerebral palsy easier.
Trish McQueen, 50, from Paraparaumu, has cerebral palsy and is known for making the most of life, loves attending yoga and dance classes and has a simple message for Kiwis.
“Get to know us for who we are.”
■ For information about Be Green & Be Seen, and to find out how to get involved, go to www.cerebralpalsy.org.nz/begreen-be-seen. To donate go to www.givealittle.co.nz/cause/ bgandbs