'˜I promised my Mum and Dad I would do well at school'Danielle's last promise to parents

Last year Danielle McGinley made a promise - one that she intends keeping.
Danielle with her award and right, Danielle's late parents Michael and Ann Marie.Danielle with her award and right, Danielle's late parents Michael and Ann Marie.
Danielle with her award and right, Danielle's late parents Michael and Ann Marie.

17 years-old Danielle who lost both of her parents Michael and Ann Marie, within just four months of each other - made a deathbed promise to each of them that she would do well at school.

She has now been named Child of Courage at the Heroes of Youth Awards.

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Now a pupil at St Mary’s College, Danielle has gone on to pursue her education.

And she says she now wants to become a midwife.

“I’ve lost so many people,” she said. “I think it would be nice to be someone who helps bring other people into the world.”

At a ceremony on Friday night, Danielle received a surprise video message from acid attack survivor Katie Piper

And she got a special message of encouragement from ‘Call a Midwife’ star Jenny Agutter.

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The actress said: “I’ve been hearing what a tough time you have been having the last few years having lost both your parents.

“You have shown such courage in keeping your promise to them to work hard and to do well at school.

“I hear you want to be a midwife and having played one on screen I’m aware of what a rewarding job that can be.

“So keep studying and hopefully you will be on a real ward soon, helping mums-to-be.

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“I know your parents would have been incredibly proud of you tonight.”

After collecting her award Danielle said: “It means so much after everything I’ve been through. I know my parents would be so proud.

“This is something I can keep forever.”

Full interview with Danielle this week’s Journal.