Georgia inspires praise

IT'S the kind of smile so inviting you can't help returning it.

IT'S the kind of smile so inviting you can't help returning it.

So when Georgia Knoll's face lights up with that smile, it's easy to see why her family thinks she's inspirational.

Just being around her is enough to brighten anyone's day.

The 13-year-old had open heart surgery when she was seven months old and now struggles with almost everything she attempts ? physically and mentally.

Despite this, the popular Year 7 student participates in Little Athletics, loves socialising, swimming and music and was elected vice captain for her Bucasia Primary School house, Carlisle.

''I had to give a speech in front of everyone and I said I wanted to be vice captain so I could help the other kids with disabilities and they voted for me,'' Georgia said.

''I like to be able to help.''

Georgia is one of 16 Mackay children who will be awarded a Lion's Children of Courage award at a ceremony today.

But she's not the only one in her family who is dedicated to helping others. Her brother Michael, 10, previously received one of the awards after rescuing their younger sister Kathryn, 5, from drowning in the pool in 2002.

''In her own way Georgia is just as brave as Michael was,'' proud mother Debra Knoll said.

''She faces every day with courage.

''Nothing is easy for her but she has this amazing attitude and tries so hard with everything ? she inspires everyone around her.

Originally published as Georgia inspires praise