Tava’s heart bleeds for children with cerebral palsy

Trust Khosa

Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub

Eunice Tava, a renowned actress, philanthropist, and video vixen, has pledged to continue using her influence to raise funds for the welfare of vulnerable children with cerebral palsy (CP).

In addition to running her charity organisation, the Chedenga Foundation, which pays school fees for underprivileged learners, she has also included children with cerebral palsy in her initiatives.

Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement and posture, typically appearing in infancy or early childhood. It results from damage or abnormal development of the brain, often occurring before or during birth, leading to challenges in muscle control.

Because of this, children with CP require special attention, as they are often marginalised.

Tava shared her insights with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, explaining that her understanding of the struggles faced by these children deepened through her outreach programs.

“I have chosen to assist those with CP because I am currently fostering a child with this condition, which needs a lot of attention.

“On this year’s International Women’s Day, I met four women who have children with CP, and I am actively supporting them through my foundation, which helps pay school fees for underprivileged kids.

“CP is a condition that has been overlooked for years, yet it significantly affects many families,” she emphasised.

She also revealed that some families struggle to accept children with this condition.

“From our research and outreach programmes, we have noted that some marriages are collapsing because some fathers cannot cope with raising children with CP.

“There are fathers who blame their partners, believing they are cursed for having children with this condition. It’s unfortunate, as CP can be managed, and these children did not choose to be born this way. Who are we to judge them?” Tava questioned.

The popular actress, who has starred in over 60 theatre and film productions, is committed to demystifying the myths surrounding cerebral palsy.

“In many African societies, including Zimbabwe, this condition is often associated with witchcraft. Some families refuse to embrace children with CP, jumping to conclusions that it is a curse.

“I have taken it upon myself to use my fame to enlighten those blessed with children with CP, encouraging them to accept the condition and leave it to God,” she remarked.

“We also strive to sit down with affected parents and children to help them accept cerebral palsy. It’s unfortunate that some parents hide their children with CP; this issue needs to be addressed to ensure their welfare is not compromised.”

To fulfill her new calling to help children with cerebral palsy, she added, “While I may be a multi-tasking woman, I have fellow creatives of my generation that I will also involve.

“I am genuinely committed to improving the lives of children with CP, which has always been my wish−to ensure that all children have equal opportunities.”