A seventeen-year-old girl from Stonehouse who has battled with a rare immune deficiency all her life could lift a prestigious beauty crown this month.
Ellie Kent, whose ambition is to be a nurse, was diagnosed with the rare condition when she was just four years old. It means that she has to undergo regular treatment to help her to fight off illnesses.
She said: “I have had IRAK 4 immune deficiency since I was born, but it took four years to diagnose it. It was only when I was getting severe illnesses such as meningitis and bronchitis that the condition was identified.”
“IRAK 4 is extremely rare and less than 50 people in the world have been identified as having the condition.”
The deficiency means that Ellie’s body is unable to make enough white blood cells which means she is more vulnerable to bugs and cannot fight off infection.
“I have to have injections every week, and IV treatment every two to three months to make sure I’m kept healthy. IRAK 4 is extremely rare and less than 50 people in the world have been identified as having the condition. My brother sadly passed away from the same condition.
“I have overcome many battles and scary times whilst dealing with this immune deficiency,” she added.
But now she has overcome her medical condition to reach the prestigious finals of Miss Teen Great Britain, having recently been chosen as Miss Teen South Plymouth.
“Having the rare immune deficiency…can be hard, but I have fought through it and have came out stronger than ever accomplishing things I never thought I could.”
Ellie said: “I have never entered a pageant before and never thought I would do something like this as it is completely out of my comfort zone and when I signed up I never thought I would make it through to the finals!
“Having the rare immune deficiency that is constantly throwing things at me can be hard, but I have fought through it and have came out stronger than ever accomplishing things I never thought I could.
“I am so lucky to be competing against many amazing and gorgeous girls in October, and I am so grateful to the team for allowing me to have this opportunity.”
Ellie is studying for an extended diploma in health sciences at Scott Medical College to pursue her dreams of being a nurse – but is continuing with charity fund raising ahead of the finals in Blackpool on October 23.
The winner of Miss Teen Great Britain will walk away with some big prizes – including £1000, dresses from The Dress Studio, a sparkling sash and crown, and more!
Ellie said: “I was in shock when I got the phone call, it is an absolute dream come true and I couldn’t be any more happy. I cannot wait to work hard for charity up to the finals and fingers crossed make everyone proud by bringing home the crown and earning the title of Miss Teen Great Britain.
“Miss Teen Great Britain helps to bring girls together and boost their confidence, they have given me an opportunity that I will forever be grateful for.”
She thanked everyone who has supported her along the way.
“I couldn’t have done it without the help of my family, medical staff and my college,” she said.
