Features / Queer
Fundraiser launched for beloved queer nightlife curator
Chris Collins, founder of PLU – one of Bristol’s longest running queer events – has recently undergone emergency corrective surgery to save their sight.
The surgery has not worked as hoped, and the People Like Us dance party, summer camp and queer community instigator and DJ is facing becoming legally blind.
Friend of Chris Dr Katie Bales has started a fundraiser to contribute towards the costs of surgery that will prevent Chris from losing their eyesight.
is needed now More than ever
The crowdfunder, ‘Help Chris see clearly’, has a target of £7,000 to restore full sight in both eyes through urgent private surgery.
Crowds enjoying PLU’s Summer Camp
Chris’ friend SJ moved to Bristol around nine years ago, and through Chris, was introduced to PLU and the wider Bristol queer scene.
“Chris has been instrumental in creating Bristol’s queer community ethos of everyone being welcome, as long as they’re LGBTQ+ allies and behave respectfully,” they said.
“Chris was instrumental in the evolution of our inclusivity as a scene. They’ve been a great role model in bringing together a community.”
Chris has been incredibly generous with their time, creating an authentic family feel to Bristol’s queer community, SJ continued: “It’s very special. They’ve wanted to grow the community, and share it with other people. They’ve curated this space where people can feel free to be themselves.”
SJ said losing their eyesight will be a tough blow for Chris who, as a result, may struggle to access DJing and commute to work from their current base outside the city.
PLU’s events have created a strong sense of community
Additional funds raised beyond the initial target will go towards Chris’ recovery, and compensate for work they’re missing out on during rehabilitation, explained SJ.
“No amount of money raised is too much,” they said, adding: “We want to show that we’ve got Chris’ back as a community and show we’re grateful, and say how much we love and care about them. They’re really important and have changed a lot of people’s lives. You can show your support through donating to the fundraiser.”
Find out more and donate by visiting www.gofundme.com/f/help-chris-keep-see-clearly
All Images: PLU
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