WATCH: Brave child of the year Gracie Andrew (6) melts hearts with big-hearted gesture at the start of Highland Heroes 2023
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DESPITE lifelong health problems that have already seen her undergo multiple surgeries in her short life, the inspirational Gracie Andrew always takes time to think of others.
Our Brave Child of the Year, Gracie (6) was born with hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip socket doesn't fully cover the ball portion of the upper thigh bone, allowing the hip joint to become partially or completely dislocated.
She has had five surgeries on her hip, the first when she was aged just 18 months, and has spent long periods of time in spica cast, from her belly button to her ankle.
Never letting it stop her, Gracie, a pupil at Newmore Primary School outside Invergordon, is at an age where she notices more how people react differently to her when she is in a cast or wheelchair.
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But rather than let it get her down she uses the experience to educate people about her condition and goes out of her way to make sure no-one else feels sad or left out in social situations.
She attends dance classes and loves cycling, climbing and playing with her friends.
One of those who nominated her said: "She has dreams and ideas of how to help people feel brave.
"She is an incredible inspiration already and deserves some recognition for what she has been through in her little life.”
Mum Katie said: “Gracie’s strength and determination to stay positive and active after so many huge surgeries is incredible, she’s spent so much of her little life in spica cast.
“It’s wonderful for her to receive the recognition she deserves. All of her family and friends are so proud of her.”
Hers was the first award of the night and it beautifully set the tone for what was to follow.
Gracie asked that the other children nominated in the same category join her on stage for a souvenir photograph, a gesture that melted hearts around the packed hall.
