Bravery of teenager recognised

Jenna Reynolds was suffering from constant severe headaches when doctors found brain abscesses — a potentially fatal infection.

The keen soccer player had been hit in the head with a ball, triggering the headaches.

After anumberof visits to the Bunbury Regional Hospital for the pain and vomiting Jenna had an MRI scan.

The scan found the 13-year-old had three brain abscesses and Jenna had to undergo four hours of surgery.

In April Jenna will be fitted with a titanium plate to replace the part of her skull which was removed in the surgery but in the meantime she is wearing a helmet to protect her head.

Jenna has been given a Children of Courage Award from the Lions Club of WA for her bravery during her months of treatment.

Lions Club of Binningup Waters memberJan Wooldridge firstmet the Reynolds family at the Australind Shopping Centre.

‘‘I saw Jenna in her wheelchair, which she was in after her surgery and I said I would like to nominate her for the award,’’Mrs Wooldridge said.

‘‘The award is for those kids who showcourage in the face of adversity and I was impressed with Jenna’s resilience.’’

Jenna’s mother Lynley said her daughter had her ‘‘ups and downs’’ but was hopefully through the worst.

‘‘She has coped so well, she’s still smiling,’’ she said.

‘‘She has had so much support from her friends and family.’’