Christopher McCollum

Christopher McCollum was aged 16 when he died on the 8th September 2001. He was born with a life limited disability called Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. This though was only diagnosed at age 5 and he began using a wheelchair from age 8. He was an only child to parents Gerry and Geraldine. Despite the progression of Muscular Dystrophy he remained a very happy boy, with a wonderful smile. He was an inspiration to his parents and everyone he met.

He received great support from many people, his church and his school, other charities and in particular from Manchester United Football Club. The support from United was vital as, sadly in his latter years, he experienced delays in wheelchair provision. This had a profound effect on his quality of life.

His parents campaigned to improve wheelchair provision for those aged 18 and under and especially if a short life expectancy. They met with the then Health Minister Bairbre de Brun in 2000 and became aware that lack of immediate funds contributed to these delays. Northern Ireland has the highest percentage of life limited children compared to the rest of the UK

His parents have set up The Christopher McCollum Fund to promote public awareness on how the effects such delays can have on young people aged 18 and under and to highlight how much other charities can benefit their quality of life.