Teenage science devotee is face of research campaign

Bronte Russell is the focus of the “OK to Ask” campaign by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), in which she urges other youngsters to help the future of medical science.

The 13-year-old, who wants to be a vet, says others should follow in her footsteps and take part in research studies.

She has been an active research volunteer, putting herself forward for studies looking into children’s bone health.

Bronte, from Bradway in Sheffield, said: “I am so thrilled to be the face of the campaign, I want to show everyone that research is not a scary thing.

“Without advanced medicine I might not have recovered so I owe a lot to the team at Sheffield Children’s Hospital.”

Bronte had her tonsils and adenoids removed and then had a post-operative bleed, which meant a five-day hospital stay.

After being inspired by the treatment she had in Sheffield and their research projects, she decided to give something back.

“Research is a fun and easy way to help others and without it doctors might not know what they do today,” the teenager said.

“You get to learn so much more about yourself and once my friends saw how simple it was, they all wanted to join in.

“I asked my doctor how I could get involved in research and then I found out about ‘OK to Ask’ and put myself forward as an ambassador.”

Paul Dimitri, director of research at Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, added: “Research today is the future of medical care.

“It’s great Bronte has got involved. The young people that take part in research studies find their experience fun, interesting and educational.

“Families also get the opportunity to discuss the research that is taking place and find out about new medical treatments.”