They say that each person must fight their own battles. It is uncommon, though, for one person’s generosity and unwavering support to be able to change the lives of hundreds of kids with cerebral palsy (CP). These kids are truly ‘ special’ because they understand what it takes to succeed despite the odds in a culture that rejects and marginalizes them. In addition to showcasing more than 1400 athletes with unique abilities, the inaugural Khelo India Para Games 2023 in Delhi has also raised awareness of those who toil diligently behind the scenes and far from the public eye to improve the lives of young boys and girls with cerebral palsy. Among them is Girija Kumari Madhu, a highly special individual in the ecosystem of the Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of India (CPSFI). Scroll down to read Girija On Cerebral Palsy Kids In Khelo India Para Game 2023.
What Is Cerebral Palsy?
CP is a severe neurological illness that typically results from anomalies inside the developing brain. It manifests in infancy or early childhood and permanently impairs muscle coordination and bodily movement. The exact number of CP sufferers in India is unknown, but according to Kavita Suresh, general secretary of the CPSFI, “the number can be more than a crore.”
Girija On Cerebral Palsy Kids In Khelo India Para Game 2023
Three years ago, Girija, a typical housewife, decided to assist CP children in reclaiming their identity and acquiring the necessary skills to support themselves. She decided to commit her entire life—as well as her savings—to the welfare of these unique children. It’s displaying results now.
Girija Madhu stated, “I learned about cerebral palsy football three years ago during a meeting with the All India Football Federation (AIFF). Since I was 14 years old, I have played football as a regular kid, and based on my experiences, I believe that football is an amazing weapon for changing regular people. These kids, who were unable to walk properly, are now running around, playing football so well, and winning tournaments, which makes me extremely pleased.”
“These children live in very appalling conditions. For fear of embarrassing them, their parents keep their children sequestered in a single room and forbid them from leaving or interacting with others. They don’t get a good education. I reasoned that if my children hadn’t been normal, I would have quietly suffered alongside them. I therefore convinced myself that I had to take action,” she continued.
In their first Khelo India Para Games group match on Thursday at the JLN campus, Kerala defeated Punjab 21 goals to 0 goals, much to the satisfaction of Girija, 49, who also serves as the manager. Kerala crushed Jharkhand by the same score (21-0) on Friday.
With 23-year-old captain Sijo George masterfully holding center stage in a team that has been using an intelligent short-passing game to outwit opponents, Kerala is a favorite to win gold at the Khelo India Para Games 2023. Girira floated the Cerebral Palsy Football Association of Kerala (CPSAK) three years ago and identified kids in her hometown of Alappuzha to begin playing football; however, the association did not receive recognition from the Kerala State Sports Council (KSSC), meaning there was no financial support.
“She is a very exceptional and unusual woman. It is quite astounding what someone with no money can accomplish. As a national federation, we are inspired by her tenacity and resolve,” Kavita remarked.
The determined mother of two didn’t give up, though, and she even mortgaged her gold jewelry to cover the 20 CP children’s training and food costs. After completing the FIFA-CIES international sports management program, which is only available in South Asia through the Pillai Institute in Navi Mumbai, Girija founded the Amogha Foundation after realizing how important it is to upskill these children.
“We’re improving their skills. They are receiving instruction in creative arts, graphic design, and data analytics. They are multi-talented. We are determining their area of expertise after three months of training. Everyone has unique abilities. It’s the first time we’ve done it. Professionals from the foundation will help us determine each child’s unique talent. Thus, this will enable them to earn a respectable and prestigious life on their own. “The possibilities are endless if we get increased financial assistance,” she remarked.
The Buimerc Foundation intervened after a local publication featured the foundation’s narrative and the predicament of the CP children. They decided to pay for the Kerala squad members’ training and travel costs. The Oorjja Foundation, situated near Ernakulam, has promised to assist in finding homes for these exceptional children.
“The Para Games at Khelo India have been a fantastic opportunity. These games are just what’s needed to ignite a revolution in sports. It is a dream come true to watch our team travel to Delhi and play with so many other exceptional athletes, and the Sports Authority of India has been incredibly supportive. To be able to give those with CP more happiness, we are depending on Kerala’s help, Girija stated.
