Wheelchair Dance Transforms Life of Birmingham Woman with Cerebral Palsy
A heartwarming story from Birmingham highlights how a local charity has dramatically boosted the confidence and independence of a woman with quadriplegic cerebral palsy through the power of wheelchair dance. Sarah Lilly, 44, from Birmingham, shares how her sister Vicky Lilly, 40, found a new passion and purpose after joining Cerebral Palsy Midlands (CPM).
Discovering a Passion for Dance
Vicky, who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and complex care needs, has been part of the CPM community for many years. According to Sarah, soon after Vicky started attending the day service at CPM, she experienced a remarkable transformation. "Thanks to the inclusive opportunities and specialist support offered by CPM, she has discovered a passion for wheelchair dance, something she had never had access to before," Sarah explained.
This newfound interest led to an incredible achievement in October, when Vicky and her team, Freewheelin Dance, won gold in the Adult Inclusive Dance Category at the West Oxfordshire Open Inclusive Dance Championships. They performed to Unstoppable by Sia, a song title that perfectly mirrors Vicky's journey of resilience and determination.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Independence
Sarah recounted the difficulties Vicky faced, particularly during the pandemic, when isolation severely impacted her wellbeing. "Vicky lives in supported living and, like many disabled adults, faced significant challenges during the pandemic when isolation deeply impacted her wellbeing," she said. However, with family support and CPM's ongoing assistance, Vicky has rebuilt her confidence.
Today, Vicky lives in a specialist supported living setting with her own accessible flat and 24-hour wraparound care, allowing her to live life on her terms. She attends CPM four days a week, engages in regular rehearsals, performs, and participates in social events. In a memorable moment, she even served as a bridesmaid at her brother's wedding last year.
A Sister's Perspective and Career Path
Inspired by Vicky's progress, Sarah applied for a role in CPM's marketing department ten years ago and is now the deputy manager. "I feel like I've found my calling and my place. It's like one big family," she expressed. Sarah emphasized the rewarding nature of her work, noting how she sees the direct impact of fundraising efforts, such as purchasing a new minibus, on the individuals supported by the charity.
Describing their bond, Sarah said, "She's the light of my life and she will say the same about me. We're sisters, we're silly, we do all the things that sisters do together and still have a laugh and connect. We have the same bond as any other sisters."
The Impact of Cerebral Palsy Midlands
Founded in 1947, CPM supports individuals with complex needs in Harborne, Birmingham, offering more than traditional adult day services. Sarah highlighted how the charity helps combat isolation. "A lot of the people we support at CPM went to specialist colleges and schools and then after their education finishes, they often end up stuck at home, feeling isolated and thinking 'how do I go out into the community and meet friends?'" she explained.
At CPM's accessible community centre, daily activities include pottery groups, musical productions, wheelchair dance, and virtual gaming. The charity also facilitates community access for shopping, GP appointments, meals out, day trips, and weekend holidays for small groups.
Fundraising and Community Support
To fund its activities, CPM recently became a registered cause on easyfundraising. Supporters who sign up and choose CPM can have retailers like M&S and Just Eat donate a percentage of their purchases at no extra cost. In October, CPM won £500 from easyfundraising's eBay Big Giveaway competition to help create memories and friendships for those it supports.
Sarah stressed the importance of these efforts: "Some of the people we support are very isolated and that's why it's so important we run events for them." So far, CPM has raised over £700 through easyfundraising, enabling continued access to activities like swimming, horse riding, and wheelchair dance that would otherwise be out of reach for many.
Vicky's story underscores the critical role of safe, specialist support for disabled adults, showcasing how inclusive opportunities can foster resilience, advocacy, and a vibrant community spirit in Birmingham.
