A Grimsby boy has won the 'Inspirational Child' category at the Wellchild awards
Noah Nicholson has received the award from Prince Harry
A 6-year-old boy from Grimsby has received a Wellchild award from Prince Harry.
Noah Nicholson has been named the winner in the category of 'Inspirational Child' which celebrates the resilience of children and young people living with serious illnesses or complex medical needs
He's started fundraising to support the charities and hospitals that help him
Noah received his award in London on 30th September at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London and spent time with WellChild Patron, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex.
The Awards are run by WellChild, the national charity for seriously ill children.
Noah, who has a cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease, short bowel disease and several other complex medical conditions was picked from 100s of nominations from across the UK to win the category of Inspirational Child in these Awards which celebrate the resilience of children and young people living with serious illnesses or complex medical needs and honour the dedication of those individuals who go the extra mile to help them.
From an early age Noah has faced daily challenges caused by his medical conditions which affect his mobility and development and often cause him chronic pain.
Born prematurely, at just 27 weeks and weighing just two pounds, Noah has undergone 28 trips to theatre, including 14 life-saving procedures, and has spent much of his young life in hospital.
But Noah remains cheerful, with a grin on his face, never complaining, even when spending his Christmases and birthdays in hospital. His bravery has been recognised with over 30 certificates.
Noah has started fundraising to support the charities and hospitals that help him which have included sponsored activities, donating gifts, and is currently organising a wish list to provide presents for other children in the hospital.
Noah’s mother, Tracy, who nominated him for a WellChild Award to recognise the impact he has had in his short life, said:
“Noah’s whole life revolves around his medical needs and hospital stays. Despite all his pain, treatments and tests, Noah is always smiling, giggling and shows so much love. This WellChild Award will put a well-deserved smile on his own face and will help us show him how truly brave everyone thinks he is.”
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex has been WellChild Patron for 16 years.
This is the 13th time he has attended the WellChild Awards where he spent time with each winner and their families at a pre-ceremony reception, listening to their stories and helping create lifelong memories. He then attended the ceremony and presented the Award for Inspirational Child (aged 4-6) to Noah personally.
In a speech at the ceremony The Duke of Sussex said:
“To tonight’s award winners. Congratulations you little legends!! Thank you for your courage, your perseverance, your kindness, and of course your humour. Thank you for being you and uplifting all those around you.”
“This evening, we come together not only to celebrate that remarkable resilience and spirit, but also to recognise and thank the unsung heroes. The superhero parents, carers, siblings and professionals who work tirelessly and selflessly to ensure these young people have the best lives possible. You are all incredible, and your love and dedication are nothing short of heroic.
“As more and more children grow up living with complex conditions and disabilities, it is vital that we advance WellChild’s important work. There are still thousands of young people and families out there who need our help, and together, we can and will make a difference.”
The event, which was also attended by celebrities including Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster, KSI and Oti Mabuse with performances from Beverley Knight MBE and Pixie Lott and was hosted by Gaby Roslin.
WellChild Chief Executive, Matt James said:
“The number of children and young people in the UK living with long term, complex medical needs is growing. The WellChild Awards 2024, in association with GSK, will be a unique opportunity to recognise the immense challenges they have faced and to celebrate their remarkable positivity, resilience and spirit, which is an inspiration to us all. It will also help us to shine a light on the dedication of those around them, from siblings and parent carers, to the professionals who have gone above and beyond to give them the very best chance to thrive in life".