A "COURAGEOUS and determined" Truro amputee who has overcome adversity to help others has been named Inspirational Woman of the Year.
Leanne Grose, 32, was selected by a judging panel of members of Truro's Inspiring Women Network who praised her "courage, determination, strength of character, and positive mindset".
Her uncle Darren Grose, in nominating her, told how she had battled a rare form of bone cancer since her teens and remained positive during the past 15 years of treatment, including a leg amputation.
He wrote: "Despite the huge amount of pain Leanne has to cope with she has never allowed herself to be seen as a victim. She has maintained her positivity and used her experiences to produce an exercise DVD aimed at people in wheelchairs, written an autobiography which has been published and taken part in charity events, including parachuting, abseiling and cycling."
Since launching the DVD and writing the book, Just A Step, in 2009, she has married and given birth to the child she was told she would never have.
Despite continuing to battle the now dormant cancer in her leg and suffering acute pain, she plans to write a second book and run a new business, the Ultimate Chocolate Fountain Company.
The judges said: "She is so humble about her achievements. She is an amazingly confident woman who is full of life and energy that is so infectious. She has carved out a reputation as being a great inspirational speaker, wanting to help others who have to go through the same emotional and painful experiences.
Despite being warned by specialists that having a baby might threaten her health, Leanne decided the pregnancy was "meant to be".
Her daughter Lola-Rose is now 14 months old.
Ms Grose said: "It was a complete shock after being told I couldn't have children. I was warned having a baby could do more harm to my body, but Lola-Rose is such a little ball of energy, I love being a mum."
The award ceremony was held at Archbishop Benson School in Truro to mark International Women's Day.
Afterwards Leanne said: "I feel so happy. I've dedicated the award to my grandad, who passed away two years ago.
"He was so proud of everything that I've done."
Award project leader Nour Chakroun said: "We were simply looking for local women who can inspire others. Considering this is the first year, the response was amazing.
"The judges didn't have an easy task, as all the nominations were truly worthy."
The event raised £768 and included performances by Archbishop Benson's choir, Roseland Voices from the Roseland Community College, InspirAsian dancers and traditional Cornish dancers. The award will now be presented again next year.
