Carmela Chillery-Watson, nine, embraces her passion for fashion despite health challenges
A remarkable nine-year-old girl, Carmela Chillery-Watson, has taken the runway at the Bristol Fashion Show, showcasing her strength and determination. Diagnosed with LMNA congenital muscular dystrophy, a condition that progressively affects muscle movement, Carmela has not let it hinder her dreams.
Carmela, who has been part of the show since she was five, walked the catwalk with the help of a walking frame. She described the experience as “exhilarating” and revealed her favourite moment was wearing dungarees adorned with bright, smiling faces.
Her mother, Lucy Chillery-Watson, shared the joy of the evening, describing the event’s buzzing atmosphere and how Carmela beamed with pride as the crowd cheered her on.
A portion of the show’s ticket sales was donated to Cure4Carmela, a Muscular Dystrophy UK Family Fund that helps fund crucial research. Since Carmela’s diagnosis, she and her family have raised more than £400,000 for the charity.
In recognition of her contributions, Carmela received a British Citizen Youth Award Medal of Honour in October for her positive impact on the community.
To learn more about Carmela’s journey and support her cause, visit Muscular Dystrophy UK’s Cure4Carmela page.
