One has to struggle their very own battles, they are saying. However, it’s uncommon that one particular person’s kindness and unflinching help may rework the lives of a whole bunch of kids affected by Cerebral Palsy (CP). These kids are actually ‘particular’ as a result of they know the way to rise towards the percentages in a society that disowns and discriminates them. The inaugural Khelo India Para Games 2023 underway in Delhi haven’t solely uncovered greater than 1400 athletes with particular skills however delivered to mild individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes and much away from media highlight to deliver a smile on younger girls and boys who are suffering from cerebral palsy. Girija Kumari Madhu, a really distinctive particular person within the Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of India (CPSFI) ecosystem, is certainly one of them.

CP is a dreaded neurological dysfunction that seems in infancy or early childhood, completely affecting physique motion and muscle coordination, typically on account of abnormalities contained in the creating mind. There isn’t any correct information on the variety of folks affected by CP in India however Kavita Suresh, the final secretary of CPSFI, says the “number can be more than a crore.”

Girija, a traditional housewife, resolved three years again to assist CP kids regain their identification and have the requisite abilities to earn their livelihood on their very own phrases. She determined to dedicate her total life and financial savings for the betterment of those particular children. Today, it’s displaying outcomes.

“Three years ago during a meeting with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) I got to know about Cerebral Palsy football. I was involved in playing football as a normal kid since I was 14 and from my experience I felt that football is a wonderful tool to transform a normal person. Today, I am very happy that these kids, who couldn’t even walk properly, are running around and playing football so well and winning tournaments,” mentioned Girija.

“The conditions of these kids are really horrible. Their parents lock these kids in one room and do not let them come out or meet other people due to fear of embarrassment. They do not receive proper education. I thought if my kids weren’t normal then I would have also quietly suffered along with them. So, I told myself I have to do something about it.”

The 49-year-old Girija, who doubles up because the supervisor, was delighted to see Kerala rating 21 objectives with out reply towards Punjab of their opening Khelo India Para Games group match on the JLN campus on Thursday. On Friday, Kerala thumped Jharkhand by an equivalent margin (21-0).

Having gained 4 nationwide tournaments since they began competing in 2022, Kerala are favourites to win the gold at Khelo India Para Games 2023, with 23-year-old skipper Sijo George brilliantly holding centre stage in a staff that has been taking part in an clever short-passing sport to outwit opponents.

Girija floated the Cerebral Palsy Football Association of Kerala (CPSAK) three years again and recognized children in her native city of Alappuzha to start taking part in soccer. However, the affiliation did not obtain recognition from the Kerala State Sports Council (KSSC). It meant there was no monetary help.

“She is a very special and unique woman. Someone with zero funding can do so much is absolutely amazing. Her grit and determination inspires us as a national federation,” mentioned Kavita.

However, the strong-minded mom of two did not surrender and even went on to mortgage her gold ornaments to fulfill coaching and meals bills of the 20 CP children. A graduate from the FIFA-CIES worldwide programme in sports activities administration, solely provided within the South Asia area by Pillai Institute in Navi Mumbai, Girija established the Amogha Foundation realising the necessity to upskill these children.

“We are upskilling them. We are training them in data analytics, graphic designing, and fine arts. They can do many things. After three months training we are identifying their area of skills. Everyone has separate skills. First time we are doing that. We have professionals from the foundation to identify each kids’ talent. So, this will help them earn their own living with prestige and respect. If we receive better financial support, the sky’s the limit,” she mentioned.

After the muse’s story and the plight of the CP children was highlighted by a neighborhood newspaper, Buimerc Foundation got here to the rescue. They determined to fund the coaching and journey bills of the Kerala staff members. Ernakulam-based Oorjja Foundation has pledged their help in getting placements for these particular children.

“The Khelo India Para Games have been a great opportunity. These Games are the right catalyst to foster a sports revolution. The Sports Authority of India has been very supportive and to see our team travel to Delhi and play with so many other special athletes is a dream come true. We are counting on support from Kerala so that we can bring more joy to people suffering from CP,” mentioned Girija.