RJ Mitte’s story offers insight into life with cerebral palsy and mental health issues

RJ Mitte in 2011. ‘People with cerebral palsy are more likely to develop mental health conditions and experience poor wellbeing.’ Photograph: Graham Whitby Boot/Allstar

The sudden passing of RJ Mitte has deeply affected many people in the cerebral palsy community (RJ Mitte, actor best known for Breaking Bad, dies aged 34, 12 October). His success challenged assumptions and showed what can be achieved when people are given opportunities and support.

Yet the 165,000 people with cerebral palsy in the UK are too often underestimated. Others frequently decide what we can and cannot do without recognising our abilities, ambitions or potential.