Inspirational local woman receives prestigious award

AT the age of just 18, Zara Campbell was involved in a horrific car accident which left her clinging to life.

The bubbly teenager suffered horrendous injuries including a broken neck which left her almost completely paralysed from the neck down.

Zara’s chances of survival were said to be slim in the aftermath of the crash and her family were told that at best she may live to see her 30th birthday.

Forty eight years later Zara continues to play the hand life dealt her, enjoying the company of her friends and family - and still keeping up to date with all the goings on in her favourite sport - rugby.

Indeed, so keen is Zara on the sport that in the wake of her accident she reported on matches in the local newspaper.

Zara lives just a few miles outside Ballymoney, in a purpose-built bungalow constructed for her following the accident in which the five others caught up in the collision walked away unscathed.

Although with only limited movement in her upper limbs she has worked out various methods of maintaining as much independence as possible – she can eat and drink without help and also enjoys using her type writer. To mobilise around the house she has an electric chair which has various modifications allowing her to sit in various positions – also from her chair she can remotely access her front door lights electric fire radio and television.

The popular 66-year-old’s home is constantly inundated with visitors keen to spend time with.this inspirational and fiercely independent lady

Zara’s incredible outlook on life and unwavering courage saw her presented with a prestigious award earlier this year from the William Keown Trust in recognition of people with disabilities who have conquered various difficulties and challenges they face - The Haldane Butler Memorial Trophy.

The William Keown Trust is an independent voice to educate the community to the potential of people with disabilities.

The Trust campaigns for dignified access to the built and open environment for people with disabilities and those with special needs.

The Trust also gives public recognition to the achievements of people with disabilities, adult achievers, children of courage and carers at an annual awards ceremony.

This year the Trust directors received 74 nominations from across Northern Ireland with Zara picking up a trophy in the Adult Achievement category.

The presentation of the award took place in Bangor and Zara’s trophy was picked up on her behalf by the woman who nominated her, Leanna McBride.

On her nomination form, Leanna wrote: “Zara is a real inspiration to all who meet her. She is so bright and interested in everything.

“You leave her company feeling really cheerful.”

Zaras sister in law Anne said the outstanding courage and determination to live as full and normal a life as is possible is truly an inspiration to all who know her or have had the pleasure of meeting her:

“Not once in the 48 years since her accident have I heard her bitter or complain about her condition.

“She takes such an active interest in all that is going on around her family, carers and their families , friends and their families. Zara was most deserving of this award and we as a family are so proud of her.”

To find out more about the William Keown Trust call 028 4375 1243.

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