Toton Brownie Isla Gordon was presented with a special award at her unit meeting last week by Girlguiding Nottinghamshire’s County Commissioner Jackie Brocklehurst. The Celtic Cross is given to mark exceptional courage, loyalty and commitment shown in the face of illness or disability.
Isla, who first joined Girlguiding aged five as a Rainbow, has a genetic condition (Charcot Marie Tooth Disease, or CMT, which is a form of Muscular Dystrophy) which leads to poor balance, muscle weakness and fatigue in her legs. Despite this, she’s a very active member of 3rd Toton Brownies. ‘If there will be a lot of walking involved then she brings her wheelchair, and on pack holidays she’s had a go at everything from go-karting to clambering up a bouldering wall!’ says Brownie Leader Christine Burton.
In addition to being busy with Brownies, Isla swims for Bramcote Swimming Club and Nova Centurions Disability Development Squad and has just won two silver medals for her age group at a Disability Swimming Gala. Isla also took part in the Primary Schools Swimming Relay in the Disability Team representing the East Midlands and says her ultimate goal would be to swim for Team GB in the Paralympics.
‘Isla’s citation tells us that she is a brilliant Brownie who has grown in confidence since she joined, and who always takes part in Brownie activities,’ reflected Jackie Brocklehurst. ‘Isla never ceases to amaze her leaders – and she’s certainly amazed me with her commitment, courage and enthusiasm for everything she does!’
