RDAU_2026-ISSUE0809_DIGITAL MAGAZINE

F or children with cerebral palsy, every milestone can be hard-earned. However, achieving an unexpected goal can help create an exciting new path. The Krazy Kosci Klimb is turning therapy into a fundraising adventure, helping children build strength, confidence, and independence. Most of all, it is a lot of fun! Every day, people with cerebral palsy (CP) overcome challenges that many of us never have to consider. Yet with determination, support, love and the right opportunities, they continue to inspire others and achieve remarkable things. The annual Krazy Kosci Klimb established in 2012, is more than just a fundraising event created by the Cerebral Palsy Alliance —it’s a celebration of resilience, inclusion and community, bringing people together to raise awareness and vital funds that help individuals with CP reach new heights. Around 250 people each year climb to the top of Mt. Kosciuszko. Consisting of roughly 15 teams comprising of a young person with cerebral palsy, who has been selected, family members, a Cerebral Palsy Alliance team lead and corporate sponsors. Despite declining statistics due to improved medical attention, cerebral palsy is still the most common physical disability in childhood, with around 1 in 700 Australian babies diagnosed each year. In total, more than 34,000 Australians live with cerebral palsy, and around 50 million people worldwide live with the condition. For many parents, the experience can feel isolating. Thankfully, there is much being done to help support through organisations such as The Cerebral Palsy Alliance. Neil and Audrie McLeod, founded the alliance in Sydney in 1945, after their daughter Jennifer was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. At the time, many families were told little could be done for the child. Cerebral Palsy Alliance was built on the belief that children with CP deserved therapy, education, support and opportunity. PHOTO CREDIT TO COME The annual Krazy Kosci Klimb started in 2012. reader ’ s digest 26   august/september 2026 What is Cerebral Palsy? Cerebral palsy (CP) is a lifelong physical disability that affects movement and posture. It happens when a child’s developing brain is injured or affected, usually before, during or shortly after birth. It is not progressive, meaning the original brain injury does not get worse over time. However, its physical impacts can change throughout life. There is no single cause. In many cases, the exact cause is unknown. Risk factors that are linked to cerebral palsy can include prematurity, low birth weight, being a twin or triplet, infection during pregnancy, stroke, jaundice, newborn seizures, brain infection, placental problems and complications around birth. Early diagnosis and early intervention can improve outcomes. Support such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and family support can also help children build movement, communication, independence and everyday skills. Signs of potential cerebral palsy may include floppy or stiff muscles, delayed rolling, sitting or walking, poor head control, feeding difficulties, unusual posture, poor coordination, or a strong preference for using one side of the body in young infants. Parents should seek advice if they are concerned about milestones or notice unusual movement patterns. “I Loved Every Moment!” The Krazi Kosci Klimb was created to allow young people with cerebral palsy to achieve a physical goal and to literally climb a mountain. At just 9-years of age, Hudson Nicholas was proudly chosen to take part in the 18-kilometre Krazy Kosci Klimb, which took place in February 2025. As one of the youngest people to ever complete the amazing adventure, which challenges young people with cerebral palsy to reach the summit of Mt Kosciuszko. Hudson still shouts from the rooftops about the experience, “I loved every moment!” The Sydney-sider who is now 10 and in grade 4, loves playing basketball, soccer, tennis, golf, AFL, going swimming, surfing and paddleboarding on the Northern beaches on weekends with his loving Dad Pete. PHOTO CREDIT TO COME Hudson Nicholas made the Klimb when he was just 9 years old. readersdigest.com.au     27 Inspirational