An inspirational Wickford teenager has scooped an award for her courage and positive outlook after suffering from Crohn's disease.
The Great Comeback Awards recognise the journey to a full and active life from people who have undergone stoma surgery.
Zoe Jones, received the award in the southeast under 18s category during a ceremony at Le Merdian hotel in Piccadilly, London.
The 17-year-old Beauchamps School pupil was first diagnosed with the disease which affects the digestive system when she was 12.
Since then she has been in and out of Basildon Hospital and the Royal Free Hospital in London and underwent stomach surgery two years ago.
Zoe, who lives with her parents, Julie and Ken and sister 19-year-old Sam in Long Meadow Drive, said: "Over the last few months I feel back to my old self again. I'm happy and confident and doing what I want to do now.
"I felt really honoured to receive the award - I was nominated after the panel of judges read my story."
Published Friday January 23, 2004
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