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Andrew Chimedza Health Reporter
A Mabvuku woman is appealing to well-wishers for money to pay school fees for her 13-year-old son who has cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of permanent movement disorders that appears in early childhood.

Signs and symptoms vary among people.

Often problems include poor co-ordination, stiff muscles, weak muscles, trouble in swallowing or speaking and tremors, among others.

Leeroy Master’s mother, Mrs Sarudzai Master, told The Herald yesterday that doctors said the disease was permanent and her son was going to use a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

“I am appealing to well-wishers to help me raise school fees for my son who has been struggling with CP for 13 years now,” she said.

She said his father refused to take care of him since birth, adding she was unemployed.

“He is now in Form One at King George in Bulawayo, where disabled children are taught and he is very intelligent and the school fees needed per term is $642 and I cannot afford it,” she added.

She also said Leeroy was unable to write using his hands but could type on a laptop and print his work.

Cerebral palsy is caused by abnormal development or damage to parts of the brain that control movement, balance and posture. Most often the problems occur during pregnancy, childbirth and shortly after birth. Often the cause is unknown.

CP is partly preventable through immunisation of the mother and efforts to prevent head injuries in children such as through improved safety.

CP is the most common movement disorder in children and has affected humans since ancient times.

Those willing to assist the young boy may contact 0779340991 or deposit money in CABS account number 1004227035.