Cerebral Palsy Education Centre (CPEC) is once again excited to be the official charity of the 2018 Medibank Melbourne Marathon.
Focusing on early intervention, CPEC is a world leading centre providing essential therapy and equipment for children with cerebral palsy (and similar conditions) to live life on their own terms. It is the only centre of its type in Australia, providing both individual and group programs and services for children as early as 8 months to 18 years. What makes it truly unique is that within each group is a specialised team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech pathologists working together to achieve the best outcomes. With the help of CPEC, children are given the knowledge, skills and support they require to actively participate in life and achieve their goals. They are literally “Learning for Life”.
CPEC has been part of the Melbourne Marathon for 11 years now, providing the majority of the volunteers that help runners in and around the MCG. “We love being part of this iconic event as it not only helps raise much needed funds for our centre through fundraising, but also gives our children and families a great sense of community and achievement by being involved”.
“Many of our children take part in the 3km walk. When you consider the physical effort it takes for a child with cerebral palsy to move their muscles correctly and keep their balance, this is a massive achievement. One step for a child with Cerebral Palsy is the equivalent to three of an able bodied person due to the amount of energy and concentration required to keep their bodies straight and balanced – so that 3km walk is 9km to our children!”
“Given the many challenges our children face, being able to participate in a physical challenge like the Melbourne Marathon is truly inspirational. We even have a handful of children who have run in over ten Melbourne Marathons and have been made honorary members of the exclusive Spartans Club. Next time you struggle to get out of bed to train on a cold wet morning, think of these incredible children who show us all the essence of true grit and determination.”
“The Melbourne Marathon is CPEC’s biggest fundraiser for the year. With very little Government funding, it is vital to keeping our Centre operating. The difference our centre makes to the children and their families is life changing. Help us to help them.”
If you would like to help make a difference to the children and families at CPEC, simply register online for the marathon and select “CPEC” as your fundraising charity. Set up your fundraising page via Everyday Hero and you’re off!
If you can’t run, you can still support CPEC by volunteering on the day. To sign up or to make a direct donation, simply visit their website.
