Dumfries teen wins good citizen award

Apr 30 2010 by Julie Watt, Dumfries Standard Friday

A CARING teenager who raised hundreds of pounds in aid of her friend who suffers from cystic fibrosis has been given a good citizenship award.

Sixteen-year-old Danielle Graves (pictured third left with pupils from Calside Primary) said she was “surprised” yet “honoured” to be given the accolade. She abseiled 100ft down the main stand of Celtic’s Parkhead stadium in aid of Owen Furnass.

The 10-year-old faces a constant battle with his health after being diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as a child.

Owen was so touched by Danielle’s bravery that he asked his head teacher at Calside Primary, Mrs Howie, if he could give something back to Danielle.

Danielle told the Standard: “I was asked by Owen’s school to go along to their assembly last Friday to be given the good citizenship award, for doing good in the community.

“I was really surprised but I also feel really honoured. Owen looked really chuffed throughout the day and the young children from the school made me loads of thank you cards. It was a lovely day and I would happily raise money for Owen again. I am glad I helped and I had fun at the same time.”

The St Joseph’s College pupil raised more than £700 during her daredevil challenge.