Mum bursting with pride over daughter's hero award

A girl who was diagnosed with a rare blood cancer just days before her sixth birthday has been recognised with an award for her "exceptional" fundraising efforts.

The family of Heidi, from Sheffield, said the now nine-year-old had raised thousands of pounds for charity since being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in August 2022.

At the Lord Mayor Awards in Sheffield on Thursday, Heidi, who is in remission, won the Young Hero award "for exceptional fundraising, advocacy, and courage through illness".

Mum Lucy, 38, said the recognition meant "everything", adding: "She's very courageous to want to help other people despite her own sadness and times of need, so we're very proud."

Heidi was first diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) after her mum noticed purple spots on her back.

According to the NHS, it is a rare type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow and is most common in children and young people.

Since her diagnosis, Heidi's family and friends have raised funds for Sheffield Children's Hospital and actively campaigned to encourage more people to join the stem cell register.

Heidi only found out last week that she had been nominated for the Young Hero award by friends at the hospital.

"She was really pleased and really proud of herself and just grinning from ear to ear," said Lucy.

Others recognised for their outstanding contributions were Carolynn McConnell, Danae Wellington, Christine King, Leanne Bennett-Pitts, Teagan Scott and Karen Vickers.

The Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Safiya Saeed, said: "This year's winners embody the very best of our community individuals and groups who go above and beyond to support others, champion creativity, protect our environment and help our city thrive.

"Their dedication and generosity inspire us all, and it is an honour to recognise their outstanding contributions to Sheffield."

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