Gemma held a fundraiser in memory of her incredible brother, Christopher Whittaker, who sadly passed away in November 2023 at the age of 28 due to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). Having an evening of live music, a tombola, a raffle, and bingo she raised an amazing amount of £2,230.
“Everyone who knew Christopher knows how truly amazing he was—from his early years right through to the very end. His strength, confidence, and above all, the love he had for everyone were unmatched. I feel so lucky to have spent 28 years making memories with him, and even luckier to call him my little brother.
Christopher was diagnosed with DMD at just 3 years old. Doctors told my parents he wouldn’t reach his early teens—but he proved them wrong, as the fighter he always was. He never let his condition define him. His talent for art was extraordinary; anything you asked him to draw, he could do! He went through school, college, and even graduated from university with an art degree. Nothing ever stopped him.
He had the kindest heart and would do absolutely anything for anybody, especially his family. His bond with Joseph and Georgia was something special—he was the proudest uncle, and I know he’s watching over them now with that cheeky smile, encouraging them to keep everyone laughing, just like he did.
Christopher was gorgeous inside and out, with a hilarious personality that lit up every room. Whatever he wanted to achieve, he worked hard and never gave up. He never complained about what life threw at him—he gave everything a go and became an inspiration to us all.
I could talk about Christopher all day because there’s so much to say, but what matters most is that he knew how proud we all were of him—and of all the other DMD warriors out there.
You might be forever 28, Christopher, but I’ll always talk about you, always post about you, and forever be proud of you.”
Together, we can support every family, every time.
If you would like to give in memory or organise an in memory fundraiser please contact victoria.edwards@actionduchenne.org
Parents and family members have told us once their loved ones have passed on they no longer feel part of the Duchenne community as they were before. They have lost that connection that supported them for many years.
We are here to make sure that important connections are maintained and to help you to access the support you need whenever you are ready. If you would like to have a chat please email info@actionduchenne.org or call 07535 498 506
