Person of the year award for Melissa

Person of the year award for Melissa

8 October 2014

DOWNPATRICK teenager Melissa Leavy has won a prestigious national award.

The 14 year-old won the Young Person of the Year category at the MS Awards in London on Monday where she met pop stars Elyar Fox and JLS founder Oritse Williams.

The awards ceremony was hosted by Radio One’s Scott Mills, with Melissa one of only three young people shortlisted for the top prize which was presented by radio producer and presenter Beccy Huxtable who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2012.

Melissa was diagnosed with MS aged just 12 years old and faces the unpredictable nature of the condition with incredible bravery and maturity.

She has experienced many of the common symptoms including vision loss, fatigue and problems with walking, but the Assumption Grammar student has vowed to do everything she can to help fund MS research.

With the support of her family and friends, Melissa has raised more than £5,000 for MS research by encouraging family members to take part in various fundraisers including fire walks, coffee mornings and zip line challenges.

Earlier this year, the Downpatrick teenager presented a BBC Radio Ulster Appeal helping to raise awareness and understanding of MS.

“It feels really good to have won, but the people who have been nominated have also done amazing things,” said Melissa after receiving her award.

“I’d like to continue to fundraise and help my class. I’m having a really good time, it’s amazing to be here, and I got to meet Elyar Fox which was great.”

The MS Society’s Northern Ireland Director, Patricia Gordon, has congratulated Melissa on winning the award, describing her as an “extremely worthy winner.”

Patricia added: “Melissa and her entire family have dedicated themselves to fundraising for MS research and raising awareness of the condition and we’re very grateful for their support.”

Beccy Huxtable said it was a “real honour” to be at the awards ceremony to celebrate the hard work and dedication of all the people who make a difference to those living with MS.

She added: “The event shines a spotlight on MS and provides motivation for those people who are newly diagnosed or struggling with the condition. It’s an amazing and inspirational event.”