Youngster nominated for award after battling back from illness

Rosyth girl Annabelle proving to be a big inspiration

This time last year the family of Annabelle Collins were prepared for the worst.

Critically ill, the Rosyth youngster battled for life.

Now the five-year-old is proving to be a big inspiration after her fight back from a rare combination of encephalitis, a swelling of the brain, and enterovirus.

She has had to learn to speak, read and walk all over again.

But now after her remarkable road to recovery she has been shortlisted for a UK Kids Count inspiration award, after being nominated by MP Douglas Chapman.

Rosyth SNP councillor Sam Steele, who highlighted Annabelle’s story to the MP, said he was “privileged” to help give her the recognition she deserves.

Annabelle’s parents, Steven and Yvonne, are delighted with the nomination. Yvonne, 33, said her daughter’s attitude is inspiring.

“Her life’s completely changed from this time last year – she’s now registered disabled and has got a wheelchair,” she said.

Despite that she has a “real thirst for life and loves everything”.

“She doesn’t let it get her down, even though some days are really difficult for her,” she added.

Annabelle fell ill last November and, with her condition deteriorating, she was transferred from Kirkcaldy’s Victoria Hospital to the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh.

With her condition becoming critical, medical staff prepared the family for the worst. However, she began to slowly recover and endured weeks of intense physiotherapy to learn to walk again.

Now the uncomplaining youngster is back part time at St John’s Primary.

Yvonne said staff and pupils had been an amazing support as had her sister Bethany, 3.

Annabelle is nominated in the “inspire the house” category of the awards where inspirational young people are recognised in Parliament.

Mr Chapman said: “It’s a real privilege to highlight her journey back to fitness.

“She’s a cheery soul who brings joy to her family in what has been a difficult year for them.” to be involved in

Picture: SWNS. The Collins family, from left: Annabelle, Yvonne, Steven and Bethany.