Child of Courage Award Sponsored by Lannyman
Winners: Leah Bennett and Clark Doyle
LITTLE Leah Bennett’s beaming smile captured hearts as she held a trophy for being named Child of Courage.
Leah, from Bold, has showed indomitable spirit to battle a rare form of cancer which she was diagnosed with three years ago.
Judges were bowled over by the inspiring story of the little “warrior princess” and the evening was an emotional moment for the youngster and her family.
Dad Stephen said: “She is amazing – we don’t need awards to say how special she is [but] but we are super proud of her.
With sister Phoebe and dad Stephen
“I don’t think she has ever realised what she has done and been through or what she is going through, so getting that bit of recognition gives her that and helps her to understand.”
After suffering back pain in 2018, doctors discovered Leah, aged nine, had a large lump on the bottom of her spine.
Doctors diagnosed her with an unknown tumour and with it not having an official name, none of the medical staff knew how to directly treat it.
Leah collects her trophy from sponsors Lannyman
After battling intense chemo and radiotherapy, Leah, a school pupil at St Bartholemew’s in Rainhill, underwent pioneering surgery.
Unfortunately, the cancer returned but, again, Leah has took on experimental drugs to help stabilise the condition.
Leah speaking to Fraser Dainton
Stephen, 40, added: “We are so grateful and everyday is a blessing after what we’ve been through since 2019. And we have had amazing support from so many people.
"Leah is just the most naturally compassionate kid, she has got such spirit and determination and those qualities are what have got us through to be honest. She inspires us.”
Meanwhile, Clark Doyle, 14, was also named Child of Courage. Clark, whose inspirational story has featured in the Star down the years, has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a muscle wasting condition which means he is now unable to walk more than 100 yards without needing to sit in his wheelchair.
There is no cure but down the years Clark has courageously taken part in research and clinical trials.
In his nomination Clark was described as “the most happiest, loving and courageous human being”.
It added: “Our family are incredibly proud.”
Clark Doyle
Judges were moved by this powerful nomination and, although, Clark could not attend on the night, his story was met with warm applause.
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