Young Leader presented with Girlguiding award

A Young Leader with cystic fibrosis has been awarded Girlguiding UK’s prestigious Star of Merit.

Katy, 15, from Essex, received the award – which is open to members aged between 5 and 26 – for showing courage while dealing with her illness, which leaves her in hospital for two weeks of every second month.

Despite the challenges she faces, Katy volunteers with Brownie and Guide units and, when she’s in hospital, leaves just to attend weekly meetings. 

‘Girlguiding is good for her because it's another focus. She can switch off,’ her mother said.

‘It is such a huge achievement and we are very proud of Katy,’ agreed Loughton South District Commissioner Sarah Murphy.

Katy was presented with the accolade during the Essex International Jamboree, which is held every four years and attended by thousands of Guides and Scouts from across the world.