An Ipswich teenager will take part in a fundraising challenge for BBC Children in Need to “give back” the support she received after being born with a rare genetic condition. 

Brianna was born with cat eye syndrome and underwent open heart surgery at just one week old.  

Following this very first surgery, the family was introduced to the Evelina Children’s Heart Organisation (ECHO) – a project now funded by BBC Children in Need.  

Ipswich Star: Brianna from Ipswich, Suffolk, joins BBC Children in Need challenge, BBCBrianna from Ipswich, Suffolk, joins BBC Children in Need challenge, BBC (Image: BBC)

Brianna’s mum, Sinead, recalled the comfort of the advice and support from parents who understood what they were going through, and the project has been a constant in their lives ever since. 

Over the years, Brianna has had extensive bowel surgery and deals with fatigue, issues swallowing, and hypermobility. 

The 16-year-old is now joining The One Show’s epic fundraising challenge, The Challenge Squad for BBC Children in Need. 

Ipswich Star: BBC Children in Need's 2023 Challenge Squad, BBCBBC Children in Need's 2023 Challenge Squad, BBC

The Challenge Squad is made up of four inspirational young people who have benefitted from BBC Children in Need funding. 

They will be championed by Jermaine Jenas, Alex Jones, Roman Kemp and Vernon Kay as they undertake incredible personal challenges to help make a difference in young lives. 

Brianna said: “My primary goal in fundraising has always been to give back.  

“For myself, BBC Children in Need and ECHO brought back brightness to my life when I felt my most isolated.  

“The ECHO project has been important in my life for as long as I remember and have supported me through not just my health but through my education and passions in film and music.” 

Ipswich Star: BBC Children in Need's 2023 Challenge Squad, BBCBBC Children in Need's 2023 Challenge Squad, BBC (Image: BBC)

Jones, who will be championing the squad and mentoring Brianna ahead of her challenge, added: “We’re so happy to be supporting BBC Children in Need again!

Ipswich Star: Alex Jones will be championing the squad and mentoring Brianna, BBCAlex Jones will be championing the squad and mentoring Brianna, BBC (Image: BBC)

"I’m looking forward to bringing the audience along on the journey with us and to see the Challenge Squad each complete an epic task.” 

The show will be on air up to November 17 on BBC One. 

Ipswich Star: Brianna from Ipswich, Suffolk, joins BBC Children in Need challenge, BBC Brianna from Ipswich, Suffolk, joins BBC Children in Need challenge, BBC (Image: BBC)