Superhero Series for Meningitis Research Foundation
847. Sofia Crockatt
Sofia Crockatt, aged 13, from Lancashire, contracted meningococcal septicaemia at the age of two and subsequently had to have her left leg amputated.
Since her operation, she has raised over £40,000 for ‘Meningitis Research Foundation’, the charity that has supported her and her family through her illness. Sofia was honoured to become the charity’s first ever Junior Ambassador at the age of nine and is dedicated to raising awareness of the disease, regularly appearing in newspapers and national television, to talk about her experiences.
Sofia is a keen blade runner, inspired by the Paralympians she has been lucky enough to meet, and has taken part in numerous fundraising events including the Junior Great North and Great Manchester Run. Most recently Sofia led a team of people in the ‘Superhero Series’ – an event aimed at encouraging those with disabilities to get into sport, organised by fellow Point of Light, Paralympian Sophia Warner. Aired on Channel 4, Sofia completed the full triathlon alongside friends who have been similarly affected by meningitis, and celebrity teammates, Carly Tait, a TeamGB Wheelchair Racer, and Jaryd Wallace, a US Paralympic sprinter.
Sofia received her award from the Prime Minister (photographed with parents Nick and Karen, and brother Dom) at a reception marking the switching on of the Downing Street Christmas lights, which was also attended by fellow Points of Light winners aged between 6-16 or whose voluntary work is centred around supporting young people.
In a personal letter to Sofia, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Your remarkable fundraising in aid of the ‘Meningitis Research Foundation’ is not only offering vital support for patients and researchers but also sending a positive message about the importance of para-athletics to thousands of young people. I wish you every success building on your work as an ambassador at ‘Superhero Series’ and in your future sporting efforts.”
Vinny Smith, Chief Executive of ‘Meningitis Research Foundation’ said:
“Sofia is a total superstar and this award from the Prime Minister is incredibly well deserved. Meningitis and septicaemia are deadly diseases that can leave some survivors with life altering after effects and Sofia has shown enormous bravery in her recovery and as she’s grown up. We can’t thank her enough for her dedication to raising funds and awareness for the charity. It’s fantastic that her efforts are now being recognised in this way.”
Watch Sofia received her award from PM:
Sofia Crockatt was among the Points of Light award winners who came into Downing Street this week to watch the PM turn on the Christmas lights pic.twitter.com/3kjnZORiH5
— UK Prime Minister (@Number10gov) December 10, 2017