After testing positive for Covid-19, a 10-year-old girl "lost the use of her leg”. Upon contracting the virus last year, Emily Saville was left in "excruciating pain" and even had to learn how to walk again, as Somerset Live reports.
Emily was one of 21 youngsters from around the country to be recognised at the Chief Scout’s Unsung Heroes Awards at the NEC in Birmingham. There, chief scout Bear Grylls praised the award winners for helping others and demonstrating "never-give-up" spirit.
An Unsung Heroes statement revealed Emily, from Somerset, contracted the virus in September 2021. Her condition “escalated to excruciating pain in various areas of her body and led to her losing the use of one leg".
"She lost her independence and her mental health deteriorated,” the statement read. “By mid-October Emily was taken to hospital by ambulance with breathing difficulties, but was discharged with the thought that she would recover in time.
"However, she couldn’t use her left side, was very fatigued and had significant pain. Emily then spent two weeks on the children's ward, and after numerous tests and physiotherapy, her journey to rehabilitation began.
“Emily has learnt to walk again while raising awareness of long Covid in children, and has raised £10,000 towards NHS charities." After meeting Bear and picking up her award, Emily said: "It was a real surprise to meet Bear Grylls in the flesh, and receive my award in person.
“I’m going to try and dive with sharks here at Bear Grylls adventure and create some memories that I will always remember." The TV personality added: "I’m so proud of these remarkable young people - they have shown true grit, determination and a true never-give-up spirit.
“To me they’re all such deserving Unsung Heroes, who continue to use their skills, kindness and courage to help others. They’re an inspiration to me and everyone around them."
