A young girl with cerebral palsy, epilepsy and reflux disease has won a competition to have a narrowboat named after her.
Michelle Atkins from St Helens put forward her five-year-old daughter’s name ‘Jessica Ellen’ for the “name the narrowboat” competition, run by Black Prince Narrowboat Holidays in the Midlands.
She said of her daughter “My daughter AKA my warrior princess is named Jessica Ellen. She is my superstar, she is 5 and has quadriplegic cerebral palsy, epilepsy and reflux disease.”
“Despite all her challenges she is beautiful, clever and incredibly smiley little girl.”
“Her smile literally lights up the room and this year will be her fourth holiday with Black Prince Holidays”.
“The flexible layouts of your boats accommodates all her equipment meaning we can have a amazing holiday but maintain the privacy we need for her therapy.”
“She would love to have a boat named after her and I would love it as she deserves a lasting reward. Thank you.”
On learning that she was the winner, Michelle said “Thank you so much Black Prince and to everyone who voted for Jessica Ellen. We are honoured, overwhelmed and very very excited.”
Michelle and her family attended the ceremonial launch of the new boat last month. you cna watch the video of this occassion below.
A spokesperson from Black Prince Holidays said “Michelle’s inspirational nomination obviously touched the hearts of our narrow boating community and we are so pleased shetook the time to enter the competition and share her story. ‘Jessica Ellen’ attracted a whopping 48% of the total vote.”
