Inspiring award for courageous teenager
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A Turriff teenager who has helped to raise awareness and support families whose babies have died, has won an accolade in the Inspiring Aberdeenshire awards.
It was the death of Katie McDonald's little brother when her mum was 16 weeks pregnant, as well as other life experience of living with baby-loss, that prompted her to champion her cause.
Katie (15) was determined to ensure that her brother Charlie’s name would be spoken and that she would do all she could to break down the taboo that often stops people talking about the loss of a child.
As well as hoping to get more people talking about baby-loss, she set out to fundraise.
Her aim was to buy a cuddle-cot for the maternity hospital, a cooling cot in which a child can be lain in after it dies, or is delivered, to allow the parents and families to say a proper goodbye.
Her efforts were so successful that she was able to buy the hospital three.
At the awards event at Haddo House she was presented with the Local Hero Courage Award.
The event is run by Aberdeenshire Council to celebrate the work of people in the area who support their communities, often unsung heroes.
Nearly 200 nominations were received from all across the area, resulting in a very hard decision for the judges.
At the ceremony in the Candian Hall, finalists, councillors, sponsors, guests and staff heard stories of incredible bravery and achievements.
Meanwhile the guests were also treated to a meal and performances from local groups including the Aucherellon Primary choir and The Rowies.
Provost of Aberdeenshire councillor Bill Howatson said: "Inspiring Aberdeenshire is always a fantastic event that we are all proud to be part of.
"It is a real honour to see all the nominations and read about the inspiring work of our unsung heroes.
"Each year we hear more wonderful stories about the community champions throughout Aberdeenshire and gathering together to celebrate them is a huge privilege.
"My sincere thanks to everyone who helped make these awards happen, and to the winners and finalists for their sterling efforts.”
