AN inspirational student who overcame two strokes is celebrating after completing her A-level studies.

Emily Harkin, from Darlington, suffered two strokes during her GCSE and A-level studies, which left her unable to walk and affected her speech.

The 20-year-old suffered her first stroke aged only 14 and had to withdraw from her studies to recover. However, against doctors’ wishes, she returned a year later and completed eight GCSEs in a year.

Shortly after starting her A-level studies at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, in September 2008, she suffered a more serious stroke and had to be airlifted to hospital in Newcastle, where she spent six months recovering.

Her mother, Janet, said that although she had to give up one of her A-levels, she was determined to finish her studies in information and communication technology (ICT).

She said: “Emily concentrated all her efforts on her ICT A-level and started at college again in September 2009.

“She was determined to finish and I am so proud of her for what she has done. It has been hard for her, but the staff at the college have been fantastic and she truly is exceptional.”

Assistant principal Laurence Job said: “It has been a long four years for Emily, who lives in the apprehension of having another stroke at any time, but she is an optimistic and determined young woman who truly deserves her success.

“Where many would have given up their A-level, Emily remained committed to her learning in the face of great adversity. She is a real inspiration to others.”

Emily hopes to start an ICT course at Teesside University’s Darlington campus next year.

The college achieved a 99 per cent pass rate after a record number of more than 850 students sat more than 2,500 exams.