Horse rider, 7, recognised for bravery after fall

Neve Gordon-Farleigh
News imageEast of England Ambulance Service Bunny-Mae who is standing in front of an ambulance with her hair in two plaited pig tails. She is looking directly at the camera and smiling. She is holding a bravery award certificate and a teddy bear.East of England Ambulance Service
Bunny-Mae is already back horse riding following her accident in July

A horse-loving seven-year-old has been honoured for her bravery and resilience following a serious riding accident.

On 27 July, Bunny-Mae fell from her horse at livery stables in Cockfield, Suffolk, and fractured her femur. She needed two pins in her thigh and spent six weeks in a wheelchair.

The East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) and Suffolk Accident Rescue Service (SARS) awarded her a bravery certificate at Bury Ambulance Hub for her calmness and determination while recovering.

Her mum, Jemma, said: "Her bravery on the day of the accident and throughout her recovery has been incredible."

News imageEast of England Ambulance Service Bunny-Mae sitting in the driving seat of an ambulance and is being shown how to turn the lights on. She is looking directly at the camera and is smiling.East of England Ambulance Service
Following the fall from her horse, Bunny-Mae was said to have a serious leg fracture

Dr Ben Peirce from SARS said when he arrived at the scene, it was clear the seven-year-old had a serious leg fracture.

"What struck me just as quickly was her incredible composure and bravery," he said.

"I've treated many patients with similar injuries - including adults - who were in far more pain and distress than Bunny.

"Her courage that evening was remarkable, especially given the severity of her injury."

Mum Jemma said Bunny-Mae is now back in the saddle, chasing her dreams of becoming a barrel racer.

She said: "She stayed positive and focused on her goal of getting back in the saddle – and she's achieved that.

"Bunny's dream of becoming a barrel racer is as strong as ever, and we'll support her every step of the way."

Pins inserted in Bunny-Mae's leg by surgeons at West Suffolk Hospital are set to be removed next summer.

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