Ballinderry teenager wins Spirit of NI Award for brain tumour work

The 18-year-old was diagnosed with a brain tumour and hydrocephalus (water on the brain) in July 2011, when she was just 14.

Since then she has undergone gruelling treatment but continues to fight through her illness to raise awareness and funds for The Brain Tumour Charity as one of their young ambassadors.

The award, which she took home from a ceremony at the Culloden Hotel on Friday, June 12, is given to someone who has proved themselves to be an everyday young hero.

In her work with The Brain Tumour Charity Danielle has raised over £100,000 for to date and inspires thousands through her blog Danielle’s Journey.

Speaking about her award, she said: “It’s an evening I’ll remember forever! I’m so grateful to all my friends and family for supporting me throughout my journey, fundraising and raising awareness of brain tumours.

“It has helped me to ‘Stay Strong, Keep Positive... always at the most difficult times.”

Richard Devlin, The Brain Tumour Charity’s Operations Manager for Northern Ireland, said: “We are delighted that Danielle’s efforts have been recognised with the Young Person of the Year Award at this year’s Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards.

“She is a fantastic and inspirational ambassador for The Charity. We receive no government funding and rely 100% on voluntary donations, so it’s thanks to people like Danielle that we are able to continue our work.”