2026 Shortlisted Nominee
Positive Role Model Award: Age
Katie Callaghan BCAv founded Cards for Bravery at 13 during a four‑month hospital stay. Over 11 years, the charity has supported more than 50,000 hospitalised and chronically ill young people across the UK. A youth healthcare advocate, Katie works to improve transition from paediatric to adult services after her own preventable critical experience. She has shaped NICE guidelines, spoken nationally, and co‑authored NHS England research, influencing policy and contributing to a Department of Health and Social Care inquiry. She also advocates for rare disease awareness, particularly CIPO, recently helping establish an awareness day.