WARRINGTON kidney-transplant patient Holly Shaw was honoured for her high-profile volunteering work at a national awards ceremony.
Holly, of Westbrook, was presented with the Shout Award at the National vInspired Awards at the O2 in London.
She underwent a kidney transplant operation in October last year, following more than three years of dialysis. She recovered well and in November this year graduated from an Early Childhood Studies course at the University of 
Chester.
During her time on the transplant waiting list, she set up the Gift of Life campaign to encourage people to sign the Organ Donor register.
Her campaign achieved national prominence and resulted in television interviews and a personal message of support from Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
Holly said: “The ceremony was fabulous. There were lots of guest presenters including entrepreneur James Caan, pop star Tynchy Strider and England rugby player Lewis Moody.
“I would say I was shocked but immensely honoured to win the award. I accepted it on behalf of over 9,000 people waiting on the transplant list, as this is the reason I do what I do.”
She thanked family and friends for support and her donor for “generosity,” and said without them she would not have been able to run the campaign or attend the awards.”
Her campaign continues – she has been the subject of a Channel 4 documentary, and remains an advocate for the Live Life Then Give Life charity, which supports those waiting for transplants and provides post-transplant support. She also plans a Donor Day next year.
Picture shows Holly Shaw (left) with her award and university volunteer co-ordinator Claire Britton.
