SCHENECTADY (WRGB) - Thomas Pest Services in Schenectady has made it part of their mission to raise awareness about Cerebral Palsy.
They say it's more common than most people think. “We have seven people just here in this organization that have direct relatives with CP.” Sarah Clark, an owner of Thomas Pest Services, and Riley’s mother said.
But one of the deepest connections is owners Sarah and Bill Clark's daughter - Riley. She was diagnosed with Spastic Cerebral Palsy, the most common form, when she was 18 months old. Spastic CP means Riley’s muscles are tight. It affects the right side of her body. She sometimes struggles with walking or putting socks and shoes on.
“She walks on her toes a little bit and she struggles a little bit with those fine motor skills in her right hand.” Riley’s father Bill Clark said.
But like other kids, Riley is full of energy! She likes to play soccer and takes gymnastic lessons. Her parents say she's spunky, full of life, and a tough cookie.
“So it hasn’t really stopped her, it actually probably taught us a lot about being able to look past the little things and see the big picture in things, and ultimately you make the situation what you want.” Bill said.
Through the month of March, Thomas Pest Services is ramping up their Cerebral Palsy awareness efforts. Every Friday, the employees will wear green in the office and in the field. They have a hashtag - #GoGreen4CP for a photo contest for customers. And they have a fundraising campaign on Facebook, for the Jake’s Help From Heaven organization in Saratoga Springs, that helps families affected by Cerebral Palsy. “If a child needs a wheelchair, for example, it helps the donations go to that cause or if a family needs to go to NYC for doctor treatments.” Sarah said.
And Riley’s school will be going-green on March 25th which is the official Cerebral Palsy Awareness day.
The Clark's goal is to educate people about Cerebral Palsy. They love when community members share their personal stories with them as well.
For more information you can visit the Thomas Pest Services Facebook page.