DECK: Cerebral Palsy doesn’t stop student from going to games

Amidst the sea of gold that occupies Marquette’s student section sits a very loyal fan, but no matter how exciting the game may be, he will remain sitting.

His name is Christopher Cunningham, and while he is the definition of a Marquette Fanatic, his Cerebral Palsy restrains him to a wheelchair.

Cunningham, a sophomore in the College of Communication, was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy when he was a baby. Yet despite his disease, his passion for Marquette remains incredibly strong.

“Christopher is the most enthusiastic young man I know,” said Kathy Linnen, a family friend of the Cunninghams.

Christopher’s father and older sister both graduated from Marquette and are now doctors in the area. His entire family is dedicated to Marquette basketball and holds season tickets, so Christopher has been cheering for the Golden Eagles his whole life.

Christopher will be attending the men’s basketball game against Rutgers tonight at the Bradley Center and will be sitting with his fellow students in section 221.

“I’m expecting us to win,” he said. “We need the victory. We just need to keep trying to stay positive.”

His teachers and family agree that Christopher’s positivity extends beyond cheering for the basketball team.

“I have had very few students who have been as consistently enthusiastic as Christopher,” said Timothy McMahon, an associate professor of history who has taught Cunningham. “He had, in many ways, a very seamless transition into my class, which I think is a tribute both to him and to Disability Services.”

Because of Cunningham’s Cerebral Palsy, he is enrolled as a part-time student and only takes one or two classes a semester. Disability Services provides him with a note taker in each of his classes, something Cunningham credits for his success as a student.

“I am able to use the notes for lectures and for understanding,” he said. “Marquette has been willing to do anything to help me succeed.”

Cunningham ultimately would like to work in public relations, but right now he is enjoying his time as a student.

“He absolutely loves being at Marquette,” said Debbie Cunningham, Christopher’s mother. “He thrives there. It is a great atmosphere for him.”

Christopher’s success at Marquette is something his mother admires.

“I just think it is absolutely amazing the way he handles the life that God has given him,” she said. “It is not always easy. But he is rarely discouraged or negative, and he never complains.”

Her son’s positive attitude helps him make it through some of the difficulties that come with being in a wheelchair.

“The world does not make it easy for someone in a wheelchair,” Debbie said. “But it has never held us back. Christopher is a gift to us. He helps us remember what is important.”

What’s important to Cunningham tonight is the basketball game.

“I just enjoy seeing the team play together,” Cunningham said. “They are working together as a cohesive unit and it looks like they’re having fun out there.”

So tonight, look to section 221. You’ll see one of Marquette’s most energetic Fanatics — but he’ll be sitting.