An Upper Bann MP said she “shed a wee tear” upon reading a message of thanks from the mother of a Tandragee boy living with a rare genetic disorder for being their family’s “voice, supporter, friend and advocate”.
The message was sent by Christine McCaughey – mum of inspirational, 18-year-old Blake McCaughey – to Carla Lockhart MP.
Despite facing his own mobility struggles – coupled with challenging health issues over the last six years – Blake walked a full mile back in May 2025, in memory of his friend Adam Watson, who sadly passed away from leukaemia in August 2022.
The full proceeds raised from Blake’s walk and the 70 mile walk Adam’s own parents completed – from Daisy Hill Hospital to Manchester Hospital via Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children- went to Cure Leukaemia.
Recognising Blake’s unwavering strength and determination, Ms Lockhart has been a constant supporter of the young man and has always been keen to stay in touch with the family, offering support in any way possible.
In October 2025, Blake hit yet another milestone in celebrating his 18th birthday. This “transition”, as Christine refers to it, can often come with a degree of anxiety and uncertainty, particularly for a parent of a child with disability and/or additional needs.
Through everything Blake and his family have endured, they say with sincerest thanks, “In Carla Lockhart MP WE TRUST.”
Explaining her gratitude, Christine said: “2025 was a year of extreme uncertainty for us as a family. Transition, a word that is discussed so much once your child hits their teenage years. It comes with fear, dread, the unknown, new teams, new faces, new wards and stepping away from a world of people that know our boy just like we do.
“As a family we needed a voice, a supporter, a friend and an extra advocate for our boy and us all together to help when we needed it. No better woman than Carla. A lady who has known us all for years and knows we will do whatever needed to make Blake’s life the very best.
“It’s not always easy telling your story or the real struggles, but knowing the depth of Carla’s empathy, compassion and desire to help there was most certainly a lot less tears and stress knowing I had her walking beside us fighting for our most precious boy.
“Words will never ever express our gratitude to Carla; all too often social media is used for the wrong reasons so today, together, we just want to publicly thank Carla Condell Lockhart and remind our community the endless hours, weeks and months Carla puts into our campaigns and gives up time with her own family to help us care for ours.
“Thank you Carla from one mother to another and a very grateful family. We have now successfully transitioned and just want to remind families following in our footsteps it’s not all to be feared. It’s a new world, yes, but with that comes new opportunities and new light so my mailbox is always open to anyone looking a shoulder during this time and I know Carla is always there to help.
“Thank you. We are beyond grateful. Xx”
Humbled by the touching gesture, Ms Lockhart replied: “Actually shed a wee tear when I read this tonight. Absolutely blown away.
“Blake is such a special young man, with the most amazing mamma and dad, sister, and extended family (Neil, David, Sara, Portadown True Blues …).
“I was just a small cog in the wheel; it really was a family effort, and from my part you were a pleasure to work with. I met Blake when I was Mayor and have watched him grow into the most amazing wee character, and he really does light up a room.
“Loved my wee visit to see him in his own home and see him in full chat with his care team. Thank you to the Trust for their assistance and help. It was, as you say, a big transition, but when you have someone as special as Blake to work with, it’s a pleasure and not a job!
“Blake is blessed to have you as parents, because you are the reason he has defied all odds. Keep fighting, and always know I have your back. X”
