A TEENAGER who has successfully fought leukaemia has had her courage recognised with a special award.

Emma Turner, aged 14, from Bromley Cross, has received a Cancer Research UK Little Star award.

The Turton High School pupil became poorly in January, 2012, aged 12. Within a few days she went from being a healthy, lively youngster to becoming gravely ill.

She was initially treated for septicaemia and it was only by chance that Emma underwent a bone marrow test, which revealed she had acute myeloid leukaemia.

She had developed the septicaemia as her immune system and blood count was so low due to the leukaemia.

Emma and her mother, Vicky, spent almost all of the following 20 months at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, where she had intense chemotherapy treatment.

Despite being sent home cancer-free in May of that year, Emma relapsed again in the October and had more chemotherapy.

In January this year, thanks to the help of the Anthony Nolan charity, Emma underwent a successful bone marrow transplant, which involved her being in total isolation for two months.

Emma has since been re-admitted to hospital many times over the summer with chicken pox, infections and a virus.

But she has remained positive and tried to carry on life as normally as possible.

Despite missing so much time from school, Emma is an A-star student and is now enjoying life in Year 10.

Emma, who has a 16-year-old brother, Daniel, and sister Katie, aged eight, loves music, make-up and shopping.

Mum Vicky, aged 43, said: “When Emma was diagnosed with leukaemia it was an absolute bolt from the blue as she had always been so healthy. It has been a real emotional rollercoaster for the whole family, but we’ve tried to stay positive throughout and not let it take over our lives.

“We are incredibly proud of Emma.”

Cancer Research UK’s Little Star Awards, with TK Maxx, acknowledge the unique challenges faced by youngsters who encounter cancer.

Every child nominated receives the accolade.

There is no judging panel because Cancer Research UK and TK Maxx believe that each child who faces cancer is extra special.

Emma also received a £50 TK Maxx gift card and a certificate signed by celebrities, including Bury celebrity Lisa Riley.

Jane Bullock, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for the North West, who presented the award to Emma, said: “Emma is an amazing young lady who has shown great courage.

“She is incredibly modest and more than deserving of the Little Star award.”

Now the charity is calling for people to nominate a Little Star. The Little Star Awards are open to all under-18s who have cancer or who have been treated for the disease in the last five years. Siblings of Little Stars also receive a special certificate in recognition of the support they give.

To nominate a Little Star visit cruk.org/littlestar