A Te Totara Primary School student is this year's star pupil for the Asthma Waikato award.
Tia Whanga, 8, was last month awarded the Leigh and Betty Dunbar Young Achievers award by Asthma Waikato for staying positive through tough times.
The Year 4 student was nominated by her teacher Natalie Gillies for her positive attitude and eagerness to achieve her goals.
"Even when Tia is faced with adversity through illness, she still manages to have a positive outlook and even lifts the spirits of those around her," said Gillies.
Tia's mum Jen Whanga, who has six other children, said she was very proud and had tried to keep the award a secret, but Tia eventually found out.