VIDEO: Most Courageous Child - Zoe Purdy
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The 13-year-old from Little Hallingbury suffers from cystic fibrosis and has to take more than 40 tablets and endure two bouts of physiotherapy every day to manage her condition, yet remains an enthusiastic pupil at Bishop’s Stortford College, energetically taking part in hockey, netball and rounders.
Zoe said simply: "I do not let the cystic fibrosis rule my life."
However mum Lorraine and dad Mark said her bravery was beyond doubt: "We are really, really proud of her, she does not let anything upset her and carries on with everything regardless."
Her fortitude inspired her uncle Steve Purdy to break a world record earlier this year. The 44-year-old smashed the previous top total and hit 7,917 golf balls in 12 hours to raise more than £13,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust – all cheered on by courageous Zoe.
Award sponsor Jackson Square Shopping Centre in Bishop’s Stortford rewarded her zest for life with the latest iPhone 4 and a pampering session at the precinct’s Urban Spa, where the teenager will be treated to a facial and a make-up session. Both prizes were presented by the complex’s manager Grace Bagster.
