Moncton MLA's son passes after 4-year cancer battle

A Moncton pediatrician says the son of local MLA Chris Collins has left a permanent mark at hospitals in the province.

Sean Collins, 13, died Monday after a four-year fight with cancer.

The younger Collins became familiar to many people in Moncton in 2004 after his father started a campaign to provide help for the parents of sick children.

The elder Collins often credits his son for inspiring him to enter politics and become an advocate for sick children and their families.

Nicole Leblanc is a pediatrician in Moncton. She says the MLA has helped strengthen ties with treatment centres like the IWK in Halifax.

"Sean and Chris have always been very strong advocates to help us get better care for children with cancer in the province," Leblanc said.

In the past year, Moncton'sGeorges Dumont Hospital has setup a toll-free phone line for sick children and their parents. The line is staffed by a full-time nurse.

Leblanc saysSean and Chris Collins helped set up the program.

Sean Collins passed away at his home. His funeral is scheduled for later this week.