Little Troopers honours courageous Olive for her remarkable strength and determination during recovery

Little Troopers is proud to announce Olive as our June Little Trooper of the Month.

Eight-year-old Olive has shown extraordinary courage, resilience and determination after suffering a brain haemorrhage earlier this year caused by an arteriovenous malformation (AVM). Since February, she has undergone two major neurosurgeries and spent four months in neurorehabilitation, facing every challenge with incredible bravery and a smile.

As the daughter of a serving member of the Royal Air Force, Olive has demonstrated the resilience so often seen in military children. Throughout her recovery, she has worked tirelessly to regain her independence, overcoming significant physical challenges and continually exceeding expectations.

Despite everything she has experienced, Olive has remained focused on one goal: returning to school in Cheltenham and being reunited with her friends. Even on the toughest days, this ambition motivated her to work incredibly hard during her therapy sessions and rehabilitation, helping her make remarkable progress.

Outside of hospital, Olive loves gymnastics, arts and crafts and spending time with her friends. Her family describe her as funny, smart, strong and determined, with a wonderful sense of humour and positivity that brings joy to everyone around her.

Throughout her recovery, Olive has been supported by the dedicated team at Bristol Children’s Hospital, whose care and encouragement have helped her achieve so much. Her family say it is Olive’s own determination and fighting spirit that have driven her recovery every step of the way.

Her family said:

“Olive has shown extraordinary bravery, determination and resilience throughout this incredibly difficult journey. She has faced challenge after challenge with remarkable courage, working tirelessly through her rehabilitation and overcoming significant physical obstacles.

“Despite everything she has been through, Olive continues to face each day with a smile, positivity and a fighting spirit that shines through. We could not be any prouder of her. She is an inspiration and our Little Trooper in every sense of the word.”

Following the announcement, Olive’s family added:

“We are absolutely delighted that Olive has been chosen as Little Trooper of the Month. It means so much to us that Olive’s strength and resilience have been recognised in this way. She has been through so much over the past few months, and this award will be such a special surprise for her. We can’t thank you and the trustee board enough for your kindness and for choosing her.”

Louise Fetigan MBE, founder of Little Troopers, said:

“Olive has shown extraordinary courage and determination through circumstances no child should have to face. Her resilience, positivity and unwavering focus on getting back to school and the friends she loves have been truly inspiring.

“She has approached every challenge with incredible strength and a smile, reminding us all what it means to be a Little Trooper. We are delighted to recognise Olive as our July Little Trooper of the Month. Congratulations, Olive.”

As our latest Little Trooper of the Month, Olive will receive a Little Troopers medal, a £100 Hobbycraft gift voucher and her certificate.