Michelle Cook overcomes tragedy to land learning honour (From Bridgwater Mercury)

Michelle Cook overcomes tragedy to land learning honour

9:50am Wednesday 16th December 2009

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A BRIDGWATER College student has overcome a personal tragedy to achieve outstanding academic success.

Michelle Cook, of Woolavington, was left devastated during her studies when she was told her five-year-old daughter Natasha would die aged just six months from meningitis.

But the plucky youngster battled back despite having both her legs and a hand amputated and can now walk again using prosthetic limbs, as reported in the Mercury earlier this year.

Now determined 24-year-old nursing student Michelle is toasting her success after claiming runners-up spot in the University of the West of England (UWE) Rod Coleman Memorial Nursery.

The award recognises the outstanding achievement of Access students from the university’s partner colleges who have distinguished themselves and overcome significant obstacles to achieve their goals.

Michelle’s college tutor Sian Brown nominated her for the award and said: “We were thrilled to hear that Michelle’s commitment to learning has been rewarded in this way.

“She rose to the challenge of returning to learning and her dedication is certainly paying off.”

Michelle is now embarking on a degree course at UWE in learning disabilities nursing with the aim of becoming a mental health nurse.

She said: “I was amazed and honoured to be nominated for this award, never mind win it. I’m sure the prize of £250 in book tokens will come in very useful!”

Sian added: “We wish her every success with her studies at UWE, and achieving her ambitions.”

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