Moray boy awarded medal for bravery after tragic passing of his mum

A YOUNG boy from Moray will be awarded a medal for bravery after the tragic passing of his mum.

Harrison Cooney (7), from Kinloss, lost his mum Vickie to cancer last year.

Vickie's health quickly deteriorated after she was diagnosed with the terminal disease in June 2022.

After bravely battling the illness for months to ensure she saw Harrison and his brother Seth (4) start school and nursery, she passed away in September.

Just a few weeks later, Harrison's dad Paul, who serves in the British Military, became extremely poorly himself and was hospitalised for several weeks.

That left the two brothers in the care of their Grandmother.

But despite the tragic circumstances of the last few months, Harrison has shown tremendous strength and bravery and has been named 'Little Trooper of the Month' by military children's charity Little Troopers.

Kate Homer, an MOD support worker from Kinloss Primary School, nominated Harrison for the award because she wanted him to be recognised after everything he has been through.

She said: “Harrison has showed nothing but strength, bravery and resilience with such a loss in his life. I am incredibly proud of Harrison’s kindness, compassion and empathy towards others, even when he’s been going through the most difficult time himself.

"He talks about his mummy frequently in circle time and helps others to talk about how they feel. He is definitely a Little Trooper in our eyes."

Paul, Harrison's dad, added: "Harrison is a very caring boy who cannot do enough for me, his younger brother and those around him. He loves getting involved in lots of outdoor activities such as camping, cycling, hill walking and going to the beach and he also keeps himself busy with swimming lessons, beavers, baking and football.

"The last nine months have been really hard for us as a family but Harrison and Seth have coped with everything surprisingly well. Winning Little Trooper of the Month has brought a smile to Harrison’s face. His mum would be so proud."

Harrison will receive a medal, certificate and a £50 voucher from Little Troopers.

Louise Fetigan, founder of Little Troopers, said: "We were saddened to hear about the loss of Harrison’s mum and we hope that his Little Troopers medal will help him to feel proud of himself and give him strength for the future."