Two kids in Fort McMurray are being recognized by the provincial government for overcoming challenges in their lives.
The Government of Alberta announced the annual recipients for the ‘Great Kids Awards’ on Monday with eight-year-old Blaire Decker and 14-year-old Charles Ancheta being two of the 16 chosen.
Ancheta and his family immigrated from the Philippines which has led to some struggles adjusting to new life in Canada.
Last year, he missed a week of class to support his mother and newly-born brother who were in the hospital shortly after his birth.
Despite missing five days, he was able to maintain his marks.
Meanwhile, Decker has been diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome – a genetic connective tissue disorder which has forced her into a wheelchair at times.
This causes her to miss time from school at Father Beauregard to attend medical appointments, however, she continues to be one of the top academic students in her class.
Her family also lost their home in the Horse River wildfire.
Along with winning a trophy, both will receive passes to West Edmonton Mall and a one-day stay at the Fantasyland Hotel.