Tears of joy

Photo: Paul Sterritt

Emma Hall gets a “well-done” kiss from mum Lucy

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INSPIRATIONAL Emma Hall, who was diagnosed with a growth-halting brain tumour four years ago, has chalked up nine A*s and two As in her GCSEs.

Saddleworth School pupil Emma (16) stopped growing when she was nine, triggering a series of medical investigations. When she was 12, doctors confirmed she had a brain tumour and needed surgery and weeks of therapy.

Emma, from Delph, lost her hair during the treatment but kept on going to school. She maintained a 93 per cent attendance record and earned a Pride in Oldham nomination.

As she nervously opened the envelope to reveal her grades she said: “I just can’t describe how it feels, I’m really happy. I wasn’t expecting this at all. I’m shocked.

“Since I had the treatment, I have to go to hospital every four months for check ups. It’s affected my height, which meant I couldn’t get on the netball team - and people think I’m only eight!

“Losing my hair was difficult — it’s grown back now, but it’s different.”

Emma undergoes regular brain scans to monitor her condition, plus daily injections to help her grow.

Proud mum Lucy said: “With everything she’s been through, her achievements are even more amazing.

“I was so nervous, waiting for her to open the envelope. But then I saw her face and I just burst into tears. Anything she got would have been great, but with everything else, its incredible.”

Head teacher Matthew Milburn said: “Emma is an inspiration to us all. What a wonderful and amazing person she is.”

Emma will study chemistry, biology, maths and psychology at Oldham Sixth Form College from next month.

::24 page GCSE supplement in tonight’s paper