Performing arts student Philip was taken aback when plans to raise awareness of cerebral palsy saw both staff and students at Stockton Riverside College turn green.
Keen to promote Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month in March, the 20-year-old urged classmates to dress in green in the hope that a handful of close pals would get on board.
“I couldn’t believe it when everybody came together for a photo,” said Philip, with students and staff, dressed in their green best, quickly filling the studio.
He added: “I wasn’t expecting that many at all – I was mind blown.”
For Philip, Cerebral Palsy is a part of his everyday life. It is a lifelong condition that affects movement and coordination.
While the fun-loving student isn’t one to let it hold him back, as an advocate of Cerebral Palsy Sport North East, he is keen to help spread the word so that more people have a greater understanding.
He also wants to encourage other people living with cerebral palsy to access the support and groups that are available.
As an up-and-coming young performer, Philip is always keen to overcome perceived barriers and like his hero, comedian Rosie Jones, break down preconceptions.
During Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, now in its 20th year, the campaign asks people to dress in green to represent hope and growth.
Promoting his own Go Green for Cerebral Palsy day at the college, Philip found himself surrounded by like-minded fellow students, all wanting to show their support.
He said: “I thought in my head that just a few people would be wearing green, when I saw everyone, I was gobsmacked!”
Well done to Philip and all those who got involved.
