Meet the Chesterfield children who have been nominated as lockdown heroes
By Laura Andrew
Published 26th Jan 2021, 11:47 BST
Chesterfield is home to some truly remarkable children – parents have nominated their stars of lockdown and shared why their child deserves some recognition.
Remote learning, being stuck inside and missing friends and family are just some of the tough things that children have had to deal with over the last year.
We asked parents to nominate their super stars and tell us how they have made the most of a bad lockdown situation.
In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.
1. Sam Patrick
Sarah Patrick nominated her nine year old son Sam. She said: "In October he fell from a climbing frame at school and injured himself.
"After taking him to Chesterfield A&E he was rushed to Sheffield Children’s Hospital.
"His spleen was split in two and detached from the artery, he had damage to his kidney and liver.
"Following the most horrific 24 hours in intensive care, he was taken to surgery for his spleen to be removed.
"He is a fighter, and pulled through the surgery. He still has regular check ups for the damaged kidney which is likely to continue until he is an adult. He also has to take penicillin for the rest of his life after the removal of his spleen.
"This life changing event has had a huge impact on Sam’s life, he can longer take part in Moto Cross, the sport he loves and his daily living has changed.
"But through it all he is still progressing. It has been a struggle but the support of family,friends and the NHS has helped him immensely." Photo: Sarah Patrick
Kirsty Leigh Siddall nominated her daughter Harriet Siddall. She said: "We’re SUPER proud of our daughter, Harriet. She still manages to put a smile on our faces every single day despite life being strange right now. Harriet, we love you so so much and are proud of everything you do." Photo: Kirsty Leigh Siddall
Joanna Baston Mbwana nominated her daughter Summer. She said: "Aged 5 makes me proud of her everyday, but over lockdown she has self taught herself makaton from watching videos, she now shows her friends to teach them too!" Photo: Joanna Baston Mbwana
Naomi Cook nominated her son Rio. She said: "I want to nominate my son Rio age 12. "Rio struggles with a lot of day to day things, however, this lockdown he has out done himself. "Due to bullying issues he has had to endure he lacks self confidence and doesn’t feel like he can achieve things. "Over the past week during his online learning I have heard over and over again that he can’t do something, yet after a lot of reassurance he has done it and has done a great job. "So proud of him and what he has overcome." Photo: Naomi Cook