A SCHOOLGIRL has been recognised for her bravery battling with a rare condition.

Bubbly Katie Ward, who is ten, has won a national WellChild Award having been nominated by her mum, Ruth Baker.

Katie, who is a pupil at Bishop William Ward School in Great Horkesley, was born with spondeloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita, which means she can not move without help and has to be fed through a tube.

She was also born with a restricted growth condition with has caused other health problems.

But determined Katie, of Hakewill Way, Colchester, still takes part in all sorts of activities.

She is described by her teachers as the most cheerful, upbeat member of the class and never considers things are beyond her.

At a recent school outdoor activity trip to Mersea she tackled every activity she could, including a climbing wall.

She has even achieved the momentous task of swimming 100 metres unaided, despite her paralysis from the ribcage down.

Katie with mum Ruth and big sister Beth, 17. Ruth said: “The most difficult thing is she isn’t able to eat many things at all, she finds it difficult as she loves chicken nuggets.

"She wishes she can walk around with her friends and she feels unwell a lot of the time. It takes a lot of courage.”

Katie is keen swimmer with Colchester Phoenix Swimming Club and loves singing in her school choir.

She has also set up a Youtube channel, Sparklefish K, which contains 20 facts about Katie - none of which mention her disability or health issues.

Her mum said: “Katie’s strength is that she doesn’t waste her time feeling sorry for herself or wishing she could do things, she gets out there and does them.

“I don’t think Katie realises just how amazing she is. I really hope that winning the WellChild Award will encourage her to cotinue overcoming the obstacles she faces with such courage and enthusiasm.”

Katie was picked from hundreds across the UK to win the category of Inspirational Child.

The awards are run in association with healthcare company GSK, and Katie will be off to collect her prize at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.

Ruth said: “She so sweet as she worries about the help she needs.

As she is ten she is more aware of how much other people have to do for her.”

In addition to Royal patron Prince Harry, previous WellChild Award evenings have been attended by comedians and musi - cians.

WellChild’s director of programmes, Linda Partridge, said: “All the panel members are moved by the bravery of the children, the stories of selfless care and support and the dedication of those who make a great difference to the lives of seriously ill children and young people.

“Katie truly deserves to be the winner of this award.”