INTERVIEW: ‘I was mocked, labelled one-hand girl’ — Chineye Okeke speaks on cerebral palsy

Living with cerebral palsy hasn’t silenced Chineye Oyindamola Okeke; instead, it’s fueled her determination to leverage the dynamic world of social media for a powerful cause.

In a digital age dominated by influencers and storytellers, the ever smiling Chineye emerges as a trailblazer with a unique narrative.

Join CrispNG in this captivating interview as we unravel the vibrant chapters of Chineye’s life, exploring the highs, lows, and the magnetic force behind her mission to reshape societal perspectives on disability through the lens of her online presence.

CrispNG: Can you give us an insight your disability and how living with cerebral palsy has shaped your perspective on disability awareness?

Chineye: I was born with a disability called mild cerebral palsy which is spastic hemiplegia cerebral palsy which affected my right side of my body, i.e. right hemiplegia cerebral palsy.

Living with cerebral palsy has been an integral part of my life since birth, and surprisingly, it’s been a positive journey. Despite the challenges, I’ve never allowed my disability to hinder my passions.

Dancing, for instance, has been a lifelong love, even though some have questioned why I dance “differently.” For me, it’s a natural expression.

This experience has shaped my perspective on disability awareness, highlighting the importance of embracing individual differences and fostering inclusivity.

It has inspired me to advocate for a world where diversity is celebrated, and everyone is empowered to pursue their passions, regardless of ability.

Can you share personal experiences that highlight the challenges individuals with cerebral palsy often face in society?

Chineye: Certainly. During my time in secondary school, I encountered significant challenges due to my cerebral palsy.

Regrettably, I faced derogatory remarks and mockery, labeled as “one-hand girl” due to my disability.

Teachers even referred to me as a “dragger,” and my gait led to hurtful comments about my appearance.

These experiences, unfortunately, led to a sense of exclusion and non-acceptance within the school community.

This highlights the pressing need for increased awareness and empathy in society, fostering an environment where individuals with disabilities are embraced for their abilities and unique qualities rather than marginalized for their differences.

CrispNG: What motivated you to become an advocate for cerebral palsy awareness?

Chineye: My motivation to advocate for cerebral palsy awareness stems from the prevalent misconceptions surrounding my disability during my formative years.

In addition to dispelling these misconceptions, my personal journey has played a significant role. Overcoming the negative perceptions and self-doubt that arose from societal attitudes towards my condition has fueled my advocacy.

I aim to educate and inspire, fostering a better understanding of the disability while encouraging individuals facing similar challenges to realize their potential and pursue their aspirations despite any perceived limitations.

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CrispNG: In your opinion, what are the most common misconceptions people have about cerebral palsy, and how do you address them?

Chineye: One of the most common misconceptions about cerebral palsy is the belief that individuals with this condition are limited in what they can achieve.

Another misconception is that cerebral palsy solely affects physical abilities, disregarding the varied strengths and talents of those living with it.

To address these misconceptions, it’s crucial to emphasize the diverse capabilities and potential of individuals with cerebral palsy.

By sharing personal experiences and highlighting the achievements of people with cerebral palsy across various fields, we can challenge these misconceptions and showcase the richness of talent and ability within the cerebral palsy community.

CrispNG: How do you envision breaking down barriers and changing perceptions about cerebral palsy in your advocacy work?

Chineye: In my advocacy work, I envision breaking down barriers and shifting perceptions about cerebral palsy through the power of personal example. Growing up with a disability, prevailing attitudes suggested that I couldn’t achieve much due to my condition.

However, I consistently disproved these misconceptions by embracing a mindset that highlighted my abilities over my disability. I aim to convey the message that regardless of one’s circumstances or limitations, each individual possesses the capability to achieve their aspirations.

By sharing my experiences and emphasizing the potential within every person, irrespective of their condition, I strive to foster a more inclusive and understanding society.

CrispNG: Can you discuss a specific initiative or project you’ve been involved in to raise awareness about cerebral palsy, and what impact it had?

Chineye: Throughout my journey, I actively engaged in a significant initiative with the Blue Sea Sport Company Limited, participating in swimming activities.

This involvement served as a form of therapy and exercise, significantly impacting my life.

Not only did it enhance my physical well-being, but it also provided a platform to raise awareness about cerebral palsy.

By showcasing the benefits of such activities for individuals with cerebral palsy, this initiative helped challenge misconceptions and highlighted the importance of inclusive recreational opportunities for people with disabilities.

CrispNG: How do you balance educating others about cerebral palsy while also promoting a positive and empowering message?

Chineye: Enhancing the education about cerebral palsy with a positive and empowering message involves sharing information about the condition while highlighting the abilities and achievements of those living with it.

It’s about fostering understanding while emphasizing empowerment and potential.

CrispNG: In your experience, what are some effective ways to engage the public in conversations about cerebral palsy without reinforcing stereotypes?

Chineye: One effective way to engage the public in conversations about cerebral palsy without reinforcing stereotypes is to focus on individual stories and experiences.

By showcasing the diverse range of experiences and achievements of those living with cerebral palsy, we can break down stereotypes and misconceptions.

Moreover, emphasizing the unique talents, perspectives, and contributions of individuals with this condition can shift the public’s focus away from stereotypes towards a more inclusive and accurate understanding of the condition.

Additionally, promoting open dialogue, education, and awareness campaigns that highlight the spectrum of abilities and challenges associated with cerebral palsy can further contribute to dispelling stereotypes.

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CrispNG: What role do you see social media playing in advancing awareness and understanding of cerebral palsy, and how can it be leveraged for positive change?

Chineye: Social media, particularly platforms like TikTok, can play a significant role in advancing awareness and understanding of cerebral palsy.

TikTok’s short-form video format allows for quick, engaging content that can effectively educate and raise awareness about the disability.

Individuals living with cerebral palsy, caregivers, and healthcare professionals can use social media to share personal stories, provide educational content, and showcase the daily challenges and achievements related to cerebral palsy.

By leveraging TikTok and social media platforms, the community can foster empathy, dispel myths, and promote inclusivity, ultimately fostering positive change and understanding for those living with cerebral palsy.

CrispNG: What advice would you give to individuals and organizations looking to be more inclusive and supportive of people with cerebral palsy?

Chineye: My advice to individuals and organizations seeking to be more inclusive and supportive of people with cerebral palsy would be to foster an environment where individuals are not seen differently due to their condition.

Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure access to necessary medical care, especially physiotherapy, which plays a vital role in improving the quality of life for individuals with cerebral palsy.

Creating an inclusive and supportive environment involves not only recognizing the abilities and potential of individuals with cerebral palsy but also providing the essential resources and care needed for their well-being and development.