Inspirational Kirsty Howard dies aged 20

Kirsty Howard, a courageous fundraiser who inspired celebrities and world leaders alike has passed away aged 20, defying doctors who gave her just weeks to live at the age of just four.

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Kirsty, who inspired celebrities and world leaders alike, was born with her heart back-to-front – a condition so rare it did not even have a name.

She was born with her heart back to front, died in the early hours of Saturday surrounded by her family.

The brave young woman captured the hearts of the nation and was awarded the Child of Courage Award at the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards in 2002.

She suffered a cardiac arrest on Thursday morning and was transferred to the intensive care unit at Manchester Royal Infirmary.

Sunday People, first backed Kirsty’s fundraising drive for Francis House in 1999.

In 16 months readers raised more than £200,000 towards her first £1 million.

She broke the £5 million mark in 2006 then reached £7.5 million, meaning a new wing could be built to help even more desperately I’ll youngsters and their families.

To make a donation in her memory go to thekirstyclub.com/donate