Realmadrid News

Beckham brings out a smile: Ollie Cartwright, who has undergone 129 operations, receives Courage Award from idol

Nine-year-old Ollie Cartwright, who has already undergone 129 operations in his young life, is this year's winner of ITV's Child of Courage Award. The annual award is presented to a child who, under various circumstances, is a role model and inspiration to all those around him. But little Ollie was more thrilled with the fact that his idol, David Beckham, presented him with the award at Real Madrid City in Madrid, where Ollie had been flown to by surprise. It was an emotional ceremony, during which David Beckham once again showed the caring side of his nature.

Once again, David Beckham showed the caring side of his nature. Father of three, the English footballer loves children, making him the best possible ambassador ITV could have for the 2006 Child of Courage Award, presented annually to a child who, under various circumstances, is a role model and inspiration to all those around him.

This year's winner is a true show of courage. Nine-year-old Ollie Cartwright has a rare condition called Pfieffers Syndrome, which has already seen him undergo 129 opeartions to remodel his skull. Despite the frequent trips to hospital and the severity of the illness, Ollie is always smiling and puts on an incredibly brave face. He had no idea that his trip to Spain would end with him face to face with the international Real Madrid midfielder.

Following the morning training session, Beckham met his “new friend.” Not only did they talk, laugh, play, and take photos, but the winger also presented Ollie with the prestigious prize, although there is no doubt that this year's Child of Courage was more impressed with meeting his hero than the award itself. Ollie is an exemplary fighter, and Beckham, an exemplary athlete.



Report by Cristina Monge
Photos by David R. Anchuelo
Translation by Matthew Goltz

posted by khalidmrrakchi@hotmail.com @ 12:16 AM