Adults with cerebral palsy are often given help they didn’t ask for, labelled inspirational for doing ordinary tasks, mocked for how they move or speak, treated like children, or simply overlooked. These experiences are examples of everyday ableism.
Some people with cerebral palsy have found ways to confront perpetrators and cope with these moments.
In this webinar brought to you by CPSN and My CP Guide you will hear what a team of researchers discovered about responding to ableism.
📅 Date: Wednesday, 29 April 2026
🕒 Time: 6:30–8:00pm (AEST)
💻 Location: Online via Microsoft Teams
Join us to learn more about:
• What ableism is
• How it has been successfully confronted
• How people have coped with it.
Who is this for?
• Adults with cerebral palsy and other disabilities
• Families and supporters
• Disability advocates and community members
• Allied health professionals and support workers
Four of the study’s researchers will be the presenters:
Cadeyrn Gaskin is a social scientist, non-executive director, and person with cerebral palsy. His research spans healthcare, physical activity and sedentary behaviour, and disability. His work on cerebral palsy primarily focuses on how adults with cerebral palsy achieve successful outcomes in life.
Alex Birnie is a community radio presenter, Assistant Program Manager, and Secretary. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Speech and Language Sciences/Master of Speech Pathology at Victoria University. Alex has cerebral palsy and is passionate about communication, inclusion, and advocacy.
Adam Goodridge has lived experience with cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair. He has encountered ableism on many occasions, even when it comes from well-intentioned people. He hopes to raise awareness about what ableism is and help create more positive outcomes within the community.
Finn O’Keefe is a community worker with cerebral palsy who is passionate about raising awareness of the health and advocacy needs of adults with cerebral palsy. He is also an associate investigator on the CycLink Study with the University of Melbourne. Finn recently received the 2026 Oceania Academy’s Person with Lived Experience Award – Outstanding Contribution.
This webinar will be hosted by Wade Costley, Board Director and Chair of the Lived Experience Advisory Panel at Cerebral Palsy Australia, and the Website Information Officer for My CP Guide. He has worked around the globe and advocates for inclusion, ageing well with cerebral palsy, and greater awareness in diverse communities.
CPSN – CPSN is a specialist disability service provider for people with cerebral palsy and similar disabilities. We provide individual support, independent living services and support coordination, alongside trusted information and guidance to help people navigate the NDIS, build independence and live well at every stage of life. Through our services, advocacy and community connection, CPSN works to ensure people with CP are informed, supported and included. We also partner with organisations like My CP Guide to support and share peer-led research, helping bring practical insights and lived experience to the broader community. Learn more: cpsn.org.au
My CP Guide – My CP Guide is a free, trusted website for people with cerebral palsy, their families, and the people who support them. It brings together clear, reliable information, real‑life experiences, and practical resources to help people understand CP and make informed choices. My CP Guide also hosts webinars like this one, sharing research and lived experience to challenge stereotypes and support everyday inclusion. Learn More: mycpguide.org.au
