Calf sale is me 'giving something back to the hospital'

Cody has been nominated for a BBC Make A Difference Award in the Young Hero category

A schoolboy has set aside his own health issues to raise money to help other young people with medical needs.

Cody, 11, from Maghera in County Londonderry, lives with right-sided hemiplegia, which affects the movement of his right hand.

He has been nominated for a BBC Make A Difference Award in the Young Hero category.

The farming-loving Cody raised more than £5,000 for Little Heroes NI, which supports the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, by auctioning a calf.

He said: "Me and my family raised £5,500. This is to give something back to the hospital for helping me out, since I was a baby."

One of the people who nominated him for the BBC award said he has "consistently demonstrated extraordinary compassion, resilience and a commitment to making a positive impact".

Cody likes to help other people.

"I don't like to see people being left out," he said.

The Young Hero award recognises an individual who makes a notable difference to their community by giving their time voluntarily to help others.

Cody raised more than £5,000 for Little Heroes NI, which supports the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, by auctioning a calf

Who are the other finalists?

Aiden McDougal

Aiden was diagnosed with cancer in 2019. Despite severe illness and treatment-related challenges, including mobility and vision loss, Aiden regained independence using a crutch.

He actively supports cancer awareness, volunteers on youth engagement programs, and created the "Walk a Mile in My Shoes" fundraiser.

Aiden is also a youth ambassador and represents young people living with cancer.

Seanain McCallion

Seanain, 13, lives with hydrocephalus, spina bifida and has other complex medical needs.

She uses a wheelchair but faces challenges with a positive attitude and humour. Seanain educates her peers about her conditions and has organised charity events raising £9,400 for children's hospices.

She is known for her infectious personality and community spirit.

Amelie Curran

Amelie, 10, was born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus but does not let it define her. She is well-known in her community for her joyful smile and enthusiasm.

Amelie attends mainstream school, actively participates in a choir, and brings positivity to those around her.

She is a bright and inspiring presence in her school and community.

Cody said he likes to help other people

What is Make a Difference?

Make a Difference is a BBC initiative seeking to recognise and celebrate members of the public who make life better for others where they live.

Since February, BBC teams from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have been asking audiences to nominate the unsung heroes in their local communities who do amazing things.

Finalists have been selected by a panel of judges in each of the eight categories ahead of the Northern Ireland final at the end of September.

The categories are:

• The Volunteer Awards

• The Young Hero Award

• The Great Neighbour Award

• The Active Award

• The Animal Award

• The Green Award

• The Fundraiser Award

• The Community Group Award

Overall winners from each category will be announced live on BBC Radio Ulster's Vinny and Cate show on Friday 26 September.