Dream holiday will be my last

Reporter: Andrew Rudkin
Date published: 15 May 2012


A MOTHER of seven with an incurable condition is set for a holiday of a lifetime to Disney World — which she says will be her last abroad with her family.

A kind-hearted community has raised more than £10,500 to send Christine Cook — who suffers with crippling Motor Neurone Disease — and her family to meet Mickey Mouse and company in Florida.

Christine (39), from Waterhead, revealed that after the trip next month she will not be able to fly again, as her condition worsens.

Despite her lungs only functioning to half their capacity and having to use a wheelchair and a frame to get around — the former Beavers leader still works as a pre-school practitioner in Lees.

She said: “I just wanted to carry on working, I have always worked. To receive the support like I have had is very overwhelming.

“Yes, this will be the last time I will be able to fly, but we are going to make this a special holiday.”

Christine’s life was rocked when she was diagnosed with the disease last summer, which stemmed from having “pins and needles” in her hands.

The past six months has seen support flood in after friends and members of the public heard about Christine’s struggle to go on the dream holiday with her husband of 16 years, Peter (48), children aged 9 to 20, and her two-year-old granddaughter.

“The support from everyone has been brilliant and I cannot thank everyone enough.”

Fundraisers aim to raise enough money for a new bathroom for the family home.

This includes a family fun day, held at St Anne’s Rugby Club, in Royton, on Sunday from noon.

Offers of help or prizes to Charlene Mannings on 07933-542 394.


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