A YOUNG woman suffering from a rare genetic disorder has tragically died, aged just 19.

Kimberley Van Gollen, from Winyates, was diagnosed with metachromatic leukodystrophy when she was four-years-old and was only given a short time to live by doctors.

She was told she would not live past her ninth birthday.

The disorder affects nerves, muscles, other organs, and behaviour which slowly gets worse over time.

As her illness deteriorated she was forced to rely on using a wheelchair and for the last five years was bed ridden.

However, Kimberley was able to live a full and varied life which saw her achieve many things including day trips out and enjoying time with family and friends.

She was also able to take a dream visit to Disneyland thanks to an appeal organised by Redditch police officers Nigel Bennett and Mark Rowley.

PC Bennett, who was also Kimberley’s godfather, said that she was a fun-loving child and described her as a determined spirit limited by her body.

Kimberley, who was looked after by her family as well as carers, was recently transferred to Acorns Children’s Hospice in Worcester.

She passed away last week with her friends and family at her bedside.

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