Devoted grandfather takes top accolade

Last published on 22 Oct 2019 

A 56 year old man from Raymond Terrace who has devoted over a decade to advocating for children with rare diseases is the 2019 NSW Grandparent of the Year.

Chris Walker's two grandsons Jordan and Logan were born with an extremely rare disease affecting the small intestine's ability to absorb nutrition.

Acting Minister for Seniors Geoff Lee said Mr Walker's fight to increase awareness around rare diseases was an incredible story of determination and resilience.

"Mr Walker has persevered through some tough times and his campaign to improve the lives of not only his grandchildren but other kids is truly remarkable," Lee said.

"The NSW Grandparent of Year Awards recognise and celebrate our wonderful grandparents, grand-friends and kin carers who give so much to communities."

Mr Walker has been fundraising, lobbying, running workshops and delivering keynote speeches.

"I was humbled and shocked to win this year's NSW Grandparent of the Year Award," Mr Walker said.

"Living on a drip is extremely hard going. All the work I do is to provide a better life for my grandchildren and other children who are living with these rare diseases."

The 2019 Grandparents Day Photography Competition provided judges with a tough choice between some brilliant entries. Natarsha Camilleri from Minchinbury won the Student Category award and Rebecca Hilton Brown from Orange won the Open Category prize.

NSW Grandparents Day is being held on Sunday, 27 October 2019. For more info on events taking place across the State visit: www.grandparentsday.nsw.gov.au

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