Doctors said she would never walk when she grew up.
But by the age of seven Ruth Skelton, who suffers from cerebral palsy, was defying all the odds.
Now, 25-year-old Ruth has completed her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award despite a condition which has forced her to undergo hospital treatment.
Her mum, Angela, of Newsome said: “I can’t put into words how proud we are of her. The beam on her face when she was presented with her certificate said it all.
“It was emotional. We are so proud.”
To reach the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award milestone Ruth has completed many tasks – including sailing a narrowboat, planning and carrying out an expedition and even delivering meals on wheels.
Angela added: “Ruth started when she was 15 at D-Zone in Netherton and has done all sorts of things for it.
“She really enjoys anything horsey and has been involved with Riding For The Disabled along with archery, arts and crafts and Meals on Wheels in Slaithwaite.
“She piloted a narrowboat at Shepley Bridge last year and has also planned an expedition.
“Because of Ruth’s condition she has a weakness on her left side.
“When she was a baby they said she wouldn’t walk but by seven she was walking.
“She has a wheelchair because she can’t walk for long periods.
“I think it has made her more determined in life.”
While completing the awards Ruth has battled with her condition and has had hospital treatment for a shunt on her brain.
Angela continued: “If it becomes blocked she needs to have surgery to fix it. Three years ago she had the operation and within eight hours of coming out of surgery they said there had been complications and she had to go back in.
“It was a really worrying time.”
But despite taking time out due to her health over the years, Ruth was determined to finish her gold award and has even become something of an ambassador for Duke of Edinburgh in Kirklees.
She was presented with her certificate by Paralympian gold medallist Stephen Miller and the Earl of Wessex, Prince Edward at The Palace of Holyrood in Edinburgh on July 4.
Ruth thanked Kirklees Duke of Edinburgh Young People Service’s led by Diane Bedford and her colleagues for their support over the years.
For more information about Duke of Edinburgh in Kirklees phone 01484 222374.