SOPHIE Ellis has defied the odds time and time again - and she intends to keep on doing it.The inspirational teenager was diagnosed with the asbestos-linked cancer, mesothelioma, more than two years ago and is thought to be the only British teenager to have developed the disease in her lung.

SOPHIE Ellis has defied the odds time and time again - and she intends to keep on doing it.

The inspirational teenager was diagnosed with the asbestos-linked cancer, mesothelioma, more than two years ago and is thought to be the only British teenager to have developed the disease in her lung.

But despite numerous bleak medical prognoses Sophie, of Straight Road, Battisford, is still loving life and is determined to fulfil her dream of becoming a professional actress.

The 15-year-old said: “The last time I saw the doctors they were pretty negative about how I was doing. But I have heard that lots of times so I just get on with it now.

“I like bucking the odds and being special. Sometimes all the negativity and medical stuff gets on top of me but you get used to it after a while.

“I am enjoying life!”

And Sophie, who is sometimes called a 'miracle child' by pals and teachers at Stowmarket High School, has recently started work on a new production with her drama group Oskar Foxtrot called 'Dunwich - A Ghost Story' and is looking forward to taking to the stage once again.

She added: “It's amazing when I'm on stage. I get such a great feeling when I'm saying the right words at the right time and that can change other people's emotions. I love seeing their reactions.

“It is great not to be yourself and be a completely different character.

“Drama also takes your mind off what is happening in your life that you might not want to think about.”

And although the medics are still unsure what lies ahead for brave Sophie she is determined to do well in her GCSEs this year and progress to sixth form to study performing arts.

In fact she hopes to keep bucking the odds for a long time to come.

For more information about Oskar Foxtrot see www.oskarfoxtrot.org.uk.

, 40th US president >