Ben Holmes

Ben is a constant inspiration to all who know him. He was born with Achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism, and Craniostenosis where his skull bones were fused before he was born giving him a very odd shaped head requiring 6 hours of surgery to rebuild part of his skull, form a proper eye socket and reduce the risk of intercranial pressure. He has so far had 2 lengthy operations to attempt to correct the deformity of his ankles with a further operation this year to involving wearing a fixator frame for 3 months. He will be desperate to be fit to take part in the National Dwarf Games next May and hopes one day to compete in the Paralympics throwing Shot and' Discus. He also competes in DSE throwing events but happily takes part as well in School Sports Days where he knows he has no chance against his much taller peers but does his best anyway and receives touching and tremendous support from everyone else. Ben lights up faces every day with his positive attitude and the support and comfort he gives others around him, even when he is struggling or in pain himself. He takes everything in his stride and although sometimes he is upset by the not always pleasant attention from strangers, his cheery and positive outlook earns him admiration and friends. He was a Peer Mentor in his second year at High School, overcoming the worry of being 'stared at' by new pupils entering the school to give support and advice to those who needed it. He inspires me and makes me so proud every day.