Amber's Story

Impact Story: Amber’s Journey - Resilience, Rhythm, and Rising Above 

Seventeen-year-old Amber is more than just an athlete—she is a symbol of resilience, joy, and unwavering determination. 

Born with Down’s Syndrome and a number of related health conditions, also developing hypothyroid as a child, Amber’s early life was anything but easy. From the beginning, she faced severe medical challenges: recurring chest infections, collapsed lungs, pneumonia, and major surgery to repair a congenital heart defect (AVSD) at just four years old. Then, at the age of eight, Amber was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) - a life-threatening battle that required years of treatment and repeated hospital stays. Amber has also recently been diagnosed with central sleep apnea and is awaiting next step in relation to her recent diagnosis.

Yet through every setback, Amber has shown the world what it means to fight back - with grace, with grit, and always with a smile. 

 "Amber is utterly amazing and has bounced back from all these hurdles and goes on to impress myself and others with her love for life and fun" - Carole, Amber’s mum 

Reigniting a Passion for Movement  

Before her diagnosis of leukaemia, Amber had already developed a love for performance and gymnastics. Years later, her friend Charlie-May invited her to a session at the City of Glasgow Disability Gymnastics Club, and Amber rediscovered that passion. 

What began as a way for the girls and their families to spend more time together became a major turning point in Amber’s life. Through rhythmic gymnastics, Amber found a space where she could thrive - not only physically, but emotionally and socially too. 

Today, Amber trains in ball and ribbon routines and is eager to take on new challenges with clubs, rope, and hoop. She works closely with the club’s coaches and also trains outside of the club with her coach, Siobhan Marshall. She has attended training camps in Aberdeen, competed in multiple rhythmic gymnastics competitions, and taken home a number of well-earned medals.

"Siobhan has a gift for being able to teach young adults with additional needs to dance, learn routines, and perform at a high level beyond our expectations" - Carole, Amber’s mum told us  

Expanding Horizons Through Boccia 

Amber’s talents don’t stop at with gymnastics. She has also discovered a love for Boccia, a strategic and inclusive precision target ball sport. Traveling regularly between Perth and Crieff for training with Perth & Kinross Disability Sport, Amber has shown impressive progress - recently making it to the quarter-finals in her very first Boccia competition in Perth. 

Across both sports, Amber is building lasting friendships and finding a community that supports and celebrates her achievements.  

Support That Matters 

Amber’s journey has been shaped by the people and organisations who believed in her potential. Among them: Graeme Doig of Perth and Kinross Disability Sport, who introduced her to various sports including badminton, athletics, and Boccia. The George Crawford Trust, whose generous support helped purchase vital equipment, such as her own set of Boccia balls - allowing her to grow and compete. The City of Glasgow Disability Gymnastics Club, which provided a nurturing space for Amber to shine. And of course, her devoted family and coach, Siobhan, who continue to stand by her every step of the way. 

Graeme Doig, Branch Coordinator of Perth & Kinross Disability Sport added: "Amber is an incredibly dedicated athlete who brings not only hard work but also a contagious sense of joy and energy to every session. Amber works hard and has a positive attitude, she consistently gives her best effort, showing determination and heart in every drill and game. 

Teammates are naturally drawn to Amber’s fun-loving spirit and infectious smile, making her a true morale booster during both practice and competitions. 

Whether it’s encouraging others with a high-five, breaking into a celebratory dance, or tackling challenges with focus and good humour, Amber adds a special kind of pizazz to our group that can't be replicated. She reminds us all why we love to play, train, and grow together."

Amber’s Message to Others 

Amber’s journey is a powerful example of how inclusive sport can unlock confidence, community, and capability. Her message to anyone thinking of getting involved is simple: 

"Yes - you should join and come have fun with us!"

Why Her Story Matters 

Amber’s story isn’t just about overcoming adversity - it’s about the transformative power of opportunity. When young people with additional needs are given access to inclusive, supportive environments, they don’t just participate - they thrive. 

Amber is living proof of what can happen when the right support, sport, and spirit come together.