A BRAVE Eden girl who has survived against all odds has rubbed shoulders with royalty.

Nellie-Mai Evans, aged nine, in her short life has had a heart transplant, battled cancer, has been pronounced 'clinically dead' and lives with severe epilepsy.

The courageous youngster, who was abandoned at birth, won an Inspirational Child award after being chosen from hundreds of nominations nationwide.

Picking up her WellChild Award at the glittering London ceremony yesterday (October 5), the determined Warcop girl met Royal Patron Prince Harry.

Speaking at the event, mum Sarah Evans said: “Being at the WellChild Awards has been the most amazing, surreal experience we’ve ever had.

"What’s wonderful is that this seems to be the start of Nellie-Mai having memories again.

"She has been looking forward to today and talking about what was going to happen.”

Foster parents Sarah and Jeff have been by Nellie-Mai's side since she was just months old - when they were asked to be with her in what was believed to be her final weeks.

MORE TOP STORIES: At the ceremony organised by the national charity for seriously ill children, Prince Harry said: "The stories we have heard tonight are moving beyond words.

"They remind us of the utter insignificance of our everyday worries.

"Yet, one of the things that always stands out is the positivity shown by those in the most difficult and testing circumstances.

"It is heartening to hear so many stories of happiness and hope, even through the dark times.”