Inspirational Jude wins WellChild Award

22 October 2024 - King’s College Hospital patient, Jude Allen, 14, has been announced as a winner at the prestigious WellChild Awards

Jude, who lives with his three brothers in Portsmouth, was picked from hundreds of nominations from across the UK to win the category of Inspirational Young Person, presented by Ed Chamberlain from Sky Sports and Gladiators star Tony Olubi (also known as ‘Phantom’).

The WellChild Awards celebrate the courage of children coping with serious illnesses or complex conditions. They also honour the dedication of health professionals who go the extra mile to help sick children and their families.

Jude had intestinal failure when he was two years old, and has undergone more than 100 surgeries including two multiple organ transplants at King’s College Hospital, that have helped him to live a happy life. His award was given in recognition of his campaigning work to encourage organ donation.

During the event, Jude also had the opportunity to speak with WellChild Patron Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, about his work to raise awareness of the life-changing impact organ donation can have.

Kellie Allen, Jude’s mother, said: “Jude’s courage and determination have always shone through throughout his life, and he refuses to let anything stand in his way. We’re so proud of how he has faced every challenge life has thrown at him, and has used every opportunity to show how organ donation can change lives.”

Carly Bambridge, Clinical Nurse Specialist at King’s College Hospital, who has supported Jude and his family, added: “Jude’s incredible strength of character, kind attitude and amazing spirit have impressed us all at King’s, and this is a very well deserved award. It has been a privilege to see Jude enjoying life to the full following his second transplant.”

Miriam Cortes-Cerisuelo, transplant surgeon at King’s College Hospital was part of the team that carried out Jude’s most recent multiple organ transplant. She said: “Everyone in the surgical team is very proud of Jude’s achievement. His resilience, patience, bravery and positive attitude have been exemplary. It’s a real honour to see him enjoying life and helping other people.”