A 12-year-old Penparc sports fan who is ‘smashing new opportunities’ the way she ‘smashed cancer’ has collected a national award for her bravery.

Cancer survivor and amputee Mia Lloyd, whose recovery was aided by the thought of getting back to the sports she loved, stole judges’ hearts to take the Inspiring Person Award at this year’s Wales Sport Awards at the Celtic Manor Hotel on Tuesday night.

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Before her 10th birthday, Mia was diagnosed with a rare type of bone cancer called osteosarcoma. What was originally put down to ‘growing pains’, ended in the diagnosis of a tumour in her leg and cancer that had spread to her lungs.

“I felt shocked and emotional – I was angry but mostly just scared of what was going to happen to me,” she said.

During 10 months of gruelling chemotherapy at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital in Cardiff, the youngster made the tough decision to have an above-the-knee amputation.

“It was the best option for me because I really wanted to return to the running track as soon as possible,” she said.

“I really enjoy the challenge of learning to walk, run and play sport on my prosthetic leg. It’s awesome choosing different colours and designs for each of the legs that I’ve had so far.”

After nearly a year in hospital, it was a visit from Disability Sport Wales officer Gemma Cutter that gave Mia hope.

She told her about all the sport opportunities and support open to her.

“Mia’s story is so powerful,” said Gemma. “She has taken everything she’s had to face at such a young age and turned it into something positive."

“With the constant support of Disability Sport Wales, I will take the opportunities that I am offered and smash it just like I smashed my cancer!” Mia said.

“Cancer has changed my body but it hasn’t changed my love of sport. If I can get through that, I can do anything.”

See this week’s South Ceredigion paper for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now