Inspirational siblings Jack and Sarah Walker take home two wins at the Moray and Banffshire Heroes awards
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
TWO sibling superheroes have overcome adversity to shine at the Moray and Banffshire Heroes awards.
Inspirational siblings Sarah and Jack Walker were both recognised at the awards ceremony on Thursday night, where they were honoured in the Brave Child of the Year and Primary Pupil of the Year categories respectively.
Sarah (15) was nominated for her courage and determination in the face of difficult health challenges.
The Elgin High School pupil, completed her national 5's last year, which are challenging enough for any teenager, but for Sarah it marked a major achievement in her young life.
The teen was diagnosed with hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain) due to an inoperable brain tumour when she was just eight years old, and she required brain surgery to save her life.
Sarah has spent the last seven years dealing with physical and mental rehabilitation, MRI scans, chronic headaches, memory loss and has also had to relearn the use of her left side.
This meant she missed out on some school, but despite her health challenges, Sarah managed to successfully return to school to take her exams and spend time with friends.
Following her award win on Thursday night, Sarah said: "I didn't really expect to win and I was really nervous, especially when I had to make a speech but I'm really chuffed to have won. It is a really proud moment for me, thank you to everyone that voted for me and nominated me."
Sarah's little brother Jack was also honoured last night, taking home the award for Primary Pupil of the Year.
Jack (11) is a pupil at Greenwards Primary and has shown incredible bravery and a maturity beyond his years while facing his own health difficulties.
The youngster was diagnosed, aged five, with the rare disease ITP (immune thrombocytopenia purpura) which affects his blood platelets making him more at risk of bleeding and injury.
Jack has had most of his young life and education severely disrupted as he has had to undergo regular blood testing, infusions, and medication
Jack's condition has meant he must live carefully due to the risk of bleeding and injury and for several years he was unable to go outside and play or participate in sports, but Jack has always carried this journey out with bravery and determination.
After receiving his award Jack said: "Mum was really emotional that we were both nominated and it was great to win and even better that we both got an award.
Jack and Sarah's Mum Maggie was delighted to see both of her children receive recognition for their inspirational actions. She said: "It has been really emotional for me as their mum, I'm so proud of the two of them and I'm just delighted that they both won."
The Brave Child of the Year Award was sponsored by Macduff Shipyards.
Primary Pupil of the Year was sponsored by Andrew Smith Family Funeral Directors.
