Brave Brett to win national accolade

TEENAGER Brett Glover has had eight major operations, chronic back pain for much of his life and been told he will never walk unaided.

But Brett, pictured, keeps on smiling through the pain.

Now the 18-year-old is set to be honoured for his courage at a national awards ceremony in London.

The spina bifida sufferer will tomorrow collect a bravery award from the WellChild charity at a ceremony also being attended by Prince Harry.

He was nominated for the award by staff at Alder Hey Hospital, in Liverpool, after having bladder reconstruction surgery in February.

Brett, of Wilbraham Road, Nantwich, said: "The operation was tough, but I always try to keep smiling and be as independent as I can.

"I think I was nominated because of the way I try to cope with problems. I just try to get on with things, and try to not let them stop me from doing what I want to do."

Celebrities at previous WellChild awards nights have included Dragons Den star Duncan Bannatyne, Rod Stewart and boy band Westlife.

Brett, who has a twin brother Jamie and two younger brothers, added: "My friends at school are as excited as I am. They are asking who will be there and whether they'll be able to see me on TV.

"Winning the award was a bit of a shock and I can't wait for the ceremony."

The winners were chosen by a panel of judges, including leading health professionals and MPs, from among hundreds of entrants.

Mum Karen Glover, aged 48, said: "He's had quite an ordeal with his operations. One of the nurses nominated him because no matter what he's had to deal with he's done it with a smile and just kept on going.

"We are very proud of him. Disabled youngsters don't get much recognition, so it's nice for him to go down to London and meet Prince Harry too."

Nurse Caroline Saunders has known Brett for 11 years and nominated him following his February operation.

She said: "Brett is a wonderful, spirited young man who is determined to reach his own goals while doing what he can to help others."

Brett, who goes to school in Mid Cheshire, is completing his GCSEs this year and hopes to study a media course at South Cheshire College, in Crewe.