A teenage leukaemia sufferer who kept her commitment as a St John Ambulance cadet was rewarded with a trip to Buckingham Palace, where she met Princess Anne.
Emily Prescott, 13, was one of 80 young people to be invited to St John Ambulance’s Young Achievers Reception, where she was honoured for her hard work and selflessness for the charity.
Despite being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia last year the Ashcroft High School student still attends every meeting she can make when not an inpatient in hospital.
Emily, whose condition is still being treated with medication and chemotherapy, has also volunteered at the Remembrance Day parade, the Kite Festival and Bedford’s River Festival.
She said: “I am very pleased and proud to have been recognised as a Young Achiever. It really means a lot to me. Going to Buckingham Palace, meeting The Princess Royal and talking to other cadets about their amazing and inspiring achievements was wonderful.
“I have volunteered for many events and, although my first aid knowledge has not been called upon so far, I have been able to use it on myself, applying dressings and monitoring any changes.”
Emily’s efforts were praised by Wendy Human, the charity’s training director.
She said: “Emily has been an asset to her local community all year round and she fully deserved to be rewarded with this invitation.
“The reception is a great way for us to recognise the commitment and outstanding work of these young people. They have all proven themselves.”