Kelly Oliphant
Andrew runs for the IGA
Fundraising for Glaucoma UK
Story
The IGA would like to introduce you to Andrew, a young patient with glaucoma, who, despite his visual impairment, is making his dreams come true. We hope that his story will help many other young glaucoma patients stay positive.
Andrew Coleman, now 23 years old, was born with Congenital Glaucoma (Bupthalmos) in both eyes. During his childhood he underwent many operations including Goniotomies and Trabulectomies. At the age of 11, Andrew realised he had a talent for music and enjoyed singing. He became a member of a local children’s entertainment group and at the age of 13 he appeared on several TV talent shows: ‘Talent of Tomorrow’ on ITV, ‘My Kind of Music’, ‘The Next Big Thing’ and ‘Popstars: the Rivals’ where he was successful in getting to the last 30 boys. Following the airing of the programme Andrew was approached by a record producer, who invited him to work on an album. In addition, Andrew has achieved 9 GCSE’s, a triple distinction National Diploma in Music and a First Class Honours Degree in Music. He also performed at The Royal Albert Hall accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and wrote a song for Mario Frangoulis who he joined in () to duet the song ‘Wounded Heart’ in 2007. Andrew is also a keen sportsman and currently plays football for Liverpool FC Pan Disability team.
We would appreciate your help by supporting Andrew who will be running the Virgin London Marathon in aid of the International Glaucoma Association on April 25th.
Thank you