University College Cork honours cerebral palsy advocate for her pioneering work

Renowned cerebral palsy advocate Lily Collison has received an honorary doctorate from University College Cork in recognition of her pioneering work.

Motivated by her son Tommy’s diagnosis of spastic diplegia, Ms Collison has been dedicated to improving outcomes for those affected by cerebral palsy.

A member of the board of the Cerebral Palsy Foundation, she has played a pivotal role in securing funding for CP initiatives in Ireland.

Author

Ms Collison is also one of the authors of the Gillette Children’s Healthcare Series of books designed to aid the parents of children with childhood-acquired physical and/or neurological conditions.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ms Collison asked the new medical and health graduates present not to forget children and those with disability.

“Success is not about personal achievement; it’s about impact,” she said. 

“Use your power of one to uplift others, challenge the status quo, and contribute to a better world.”

UCC president Professor John O’Halloran said: “Lily’s work continues to influence the lives of individuals with disabilities worldwide, empowering families, shaping research, and improving the care available to people with CP.

“Lily’s advocacy has led to transformative partnerships, including a significant collaboration with us here in UCC, where we established the Elevate programme to improve early detection and treatment of brain injury and CP. Her many years of tireless advocacy makes her a very worthy recipient of an honorary doctorate.”