Wonder Woman fundraiser, six, speaks to star
A SIX-YEAR-OLD disabled girl who completed a gruelling walking challenge dressed as Wonder Woman has finally spoken to the actress who portrays the DC Comics character.
Carmela Chillery-Watson, from Devizes, Wiltshire, has LMNA congenital muscular dystrophy, a life-limiting muscle-wasting disease, and is unlikely to live beyond her 20th birthday.
She completed a 300km charity challenge in September, using specially designed crutches, raising more than £15,000 for Muscular Dystrophy UK.
On Tuesday evening, she shared a message of thanks to actress Gal Gadot – star of the new Wonder Woman 1984 movie – via a pre-recorded video on The One Show.
“Hi Gal, it’s Carmela, AKA Wonder Girl,” said Carmela, referencing a September tweet from Gadot in which she described Carmela as “my real Wonder Girl”.
“I can’t wait to see your new movie. Thank you for donating to my Wonder Woman walk.
“You help me fight on living with muscular dystrophy and inspire me to do my exercise daily to help me stay strong... you help me and other children have hope.”
Speaking to the presenters, Gadot, who donated £3,442 to Carmela’s cause in September, said Carmela is “the true Wonder Woman”.
“That’s made my day,” said Gadot. It’s such a privilege to be able to affect these precious souls. Carmela is a true Wonder Woman.
“She fights for her goal and she shows that she doesn’t let anything stop her.
“Honestly it’s not about me, I’m just a vessel. I’m just the actress that got to portray this incredible character.”