At a presentation at the Pomme d’Or Hotel yesterday Sammy was among four finalists whose positive actions and attitudes are a testament to the human spirit when it is put to the test.
A pupil at Bel Royal School, Sammy was nominated for this annual award by her teacher Diane Marsay for the perseverance and compassion she displayed in coping with cerebral palsy as well as traumatic family events.
There to watch her receive a £1,500 family travel voucher and trophy from Paul Savery from Barclays, were her proud mother Heidi, twin sister Bobbie (11), and brother Charlie (8).
Due to her condition, Sammy has had several painful operations to stretch the tendons in her feet and has to wear hard, plastic splints on her legs and feet to help with positioning.
As an added challenge, Sammy and her family have faced emotional upheaval over the past four years.
Mrs Marsay said the wonderful thing about Sammy was her ability to face these issues and get on with life with a bright smile and positive, helpful attitude.