A SIX-year-old boy from Odiham has been presented a medal by a commander in the RAF for his 'strength of character during a challenging time'.
Teddy Baker has been awarded a medal from children's charity, Little Troopers, which works to support the children of those serving in the Armed Forces, due to his bravery.
Teddy was rushed to hospital in February from the airport after developing Henoch-Schnönlein purpura which causes him intense pain in his legs.
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The six-year-old, whose father served in the Royal Air Force as an Aircraft Technician, also started to experience focal seizures and night terrors.
Teddy's mum, Rachel, who nominated him for the award, noted that alongside his health difficulties the family has been navigating the deployment of his father last year.
The deployment, which led him to miss Teddy's Christmas play, causes him to feel 'very anxious'. Rachel said: "Throughout all the testing, hospital visits and health scares this year, Teddy has been so brave and accepting.
"He doesn't complain and even though he is scared or in pain and always has a smile at the end of the day.
"We have a lot of unknowns about his seizures and it’s a lot to carry, especially with his dad due to deploy again early next year, but Teddy is coping so well with it all.
"He’s also been helping out at his after school club, supporting other friends who are sad, hurt or upset. We are extremely proud of him and he is our special Little Trooper.”
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Teddy received the medal at a presentation held at RAF Odiham by Wing Commander Jo Field, who said the award marked his 'outstanding perseverance'.
She added: "His strength of character during a challenging time has been an inspiration and from talking to Teddy’s mum, it’s clear that he has gone above and beyond, thoroughly deserving of this award.
"Well done Teddy!"
In addition to receiving the award, Teddy was also given a £100 gift card to celebrate the 'resilience and bravery he has shown in the face of adversity'.
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