Sponsored by: Sainsbury’s

The Sainsbury’s Women of the Year “You Can” Award rewards those who have inspired others and made a real different to people from all walks of life.

Katie Piper
Katie Piper is a beautiful young woman, rebuilding her life after surviving a brutal attack in 2008, when sulphuric acid was thrown in her face. Katie spent seven weeks in the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, before starting a two year period of rehabilitation where she wore a special plastic pressure mask for 23 hours of every day. Prior to the attack, Katie was a model and budding TV presenter with a busy social life and a glowing future in the public eye. The attack attempted to ruin Katie from the inside out. Like many, she believed her life was over now that she was a ‘burns victim’.

Following her pioneering surgery, led by Mr Mohammad Jawad FRCS at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, Katie was referred to Centre Ster in Lamalou-les-Bains, a specialist rehabilitation centre in France. This centre had a remarkable impact on her recovery, both mentally and physically. It was here, whilst interacting with other burns survivors, that she made the most progress in regaining control of her life. Katie also began to research and was introduced to additional practical support, such as camouflage make-up, lasering and medical tattooing.

After more than 80 operations, and countless treatments and therapies, Katie still faces many personal challenges. Katie has made amazing progress. Relying heavily on her family and friends, and thanks to the outstanding treatment she received in France, alongside her own incredible determination, she no longer feels that her burns define her.

In 2009 Katie made an important decision to share her story in a remarkable film for Channel 4, “Katie: My Beautiful Face”. From CCTV footage of the attack to the day she first steps out of her parents’ house alone, Katie explained how she rebuilt her life.

Click here to show your support for the 2011 Women of the Year event >