THE Pride of Gwent Awards ceremony takes place tomorrow where some of the most inspirational people from across the region will be celebrated.

We had nominations for people from all over Gwent who do amazing work or deal with very difficult situations.

Our Pride of Gwent Courage Award has been awarded to Rebecca Cooksey from Tredegar.

Known as Bec to her friends, Rebecca is suffering from a rare incurable abdominal cancer but is fighting with every ounce of strength and doing it with a smile, a joke and a kind word.

The mother-of-two children, 15-year-old Alfie and 11-year-old Clara, is currently undergoing chemotherapy and is described as an inspiration to all of those around her as she makes the most of every day.

She said: “ I was really taken aback when I was told that I was receiving an award as it came as a complete surprise.

“I had no idea that I had been nominated and I felt very honoured and a bit overwhelmed.”

The person who nominated Rebecca said: “She is an amazing, strong, inspirational lady who deserves recognition for her bravery and attitude to life.”

Before her illness Rebecca was a keen runner alongside her Dad and was a member of Parc Bryn Bach Running Club.

Her running friends continue to support her through diagnosis and treatment.

Ms Cooksey is making the most of her life despite the incurable cancer.

“An awful thing has happened to me," she said, "but in many ways it has brought out the best in me as it focuses your mind on what is truly important.

“I don’t have time to dwell on grudges or petty things so I feel a lot happier and unburdened. I used to suffer from anxiety but now that has all gone because when the worst thing you can imagine is actually happening, there is nothing else to worry about It’s very liberating in a funny way.”

She said: “People say I’m brave or inspirational for being so positive, but I just feel as though every day is a gift now and I don’t want to waste it. I want my kids to look back and remember me laughing and smiling.”

Ms Cooksey will be celebrated at an awards ceremony which will be held tomorrow in the Coldra Court Hotel where the overall Pride of Gwent winner for 2018 will be announced.

To find out more about the awards visit southwalesargus.co.uk/prideofgwent