Martin is Essex’s child of courage

Martin is Essex's child of courage

9:00am Wednesday 25th December 2013 in News

A TEENAGER confined to a wheelchair has won an award for his courage.

Martin Bennett, 13, of Parsons Heath, Colchester, has learned to swim, raises money for charity and has taken part in a medical trial, despite having a musclewasting condition.

His mum, Jill Ablitt, nominated Martin for the Pride of Essex awards and judges have named him this years Child of Courage.

Jill, 45, said: He finds everyday life quite challenging, but he has done quite a few things.

Martin was diagnosed with Type 2 spinal muscular atrophy at the age of two.

The Gilberd School pupil has been a member of the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts, and abseiled down the tower at Thorrington Scout camp.

He learnt to swim at Lexden Springs School swimming on his front with a snorkel because his neck is too weak to lift his head out of the water.

Martin also helps the Colchester branch of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign at its sales and with street collections.

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Martin is Essex's child of courage