by Sam Dimmer, Coventry Telegraph
Radford (United Kingdom) teenager who battled major health problems nominated for Prince’s Trust award.
A teenager from Coventry who has battled major health problems before turning her life around is one of three people from the UK to be nominated for a Prince’s Trust award.
Antoinette Spelman, of Radford, was born three months prematurely and was given just a 50 per cent chance of survival after being diagnosed with foetal alcohol syndrome.
She survived but was left with major health and development issues and spent her childhood in and out of hospital.
A turbulent childhood meant she struggled at school but after joining a club run by The Prince’s Trust in Coventry, she has transformed her life.
She is currently studying for her A-levels and is learning to be a sign language interpreter at night school.
And on March 14, 16-year-old Antoinette will travel to London’s Leicester Square Odeon to attend The Prince’s Trust Celebrate Success Awards.
She has been nominated for the Educational Achiever of The Year Award which recognises young people who have overcome barriers, developed new skills and improved their education prospects.
She said: “I’m thrilled to shortlisted. The Prince’s Trust gave me the help, support and guidance when I needed it most and I can’t thank them enough for helping me get to where I am today.”
It is the eighth year the ceremony has been held with actors Tom Hardy and Joanne Lumley among the guests.