LIFE for Ellie May Challis is the same as any other girl her age.

The five-year-old attends primary school each day and goes to a number of after-school clubs. But Ellie May, who lost both her hands and legs to meningitis when she was a toddler, is proof that no obstacle has to prevent her seizing the day.

The past year has been a busy time for Ellie May, whose story touched the hearts of people across Essex.

She and her mum Lisa, 36, dad Paul, 46, twin sister Sophie, sister Tai-la, ten, and 11-year-old brother Connor, moved from Rainham to Weeley Road, Little Clacton, last Christmas. Their more spacious home has no stairs, making it easier for Ellie May to move about.

Mrs Challis, a support worker for people with disabilities, said Ellie May had also been enjoying life at Engaines Primary School, Little Clacton, where she is friends with all the children.

She added: “At the moment, Ellie May just has a normal life and can do the same things as any other five-year-old girl.

“She really likes school and is always coming back and saying, ‘Mummy, I got a new boyfriend today’. She does gymnastics and dancing after school, and absolutely loves football.”

In April, Ellie May hit the headlines by becoming the youngest person in the world to be fitted with special carbon-framed limbs, made for her at a cost of £10,000.

Mrs Challis said the legs had changed Ellie May’s life.

She added: “Before, her movement was much more limited. But now the first thing she asks for when she wakes up is her legs.”

Ellie May got the chance to test her legs out against Paralympic sprinter Oscar Pistorius, nicknamed Blade Runner – and beat him in each race!

Despite her victory, Lisa said there were no sporting plans for Ellie May yet.

She said: “The plan is just to live as happy a life as possible and for Ellie May to keep going with these legs.

“The only thing Ellie May says about her future is that she’s going to get married and have children when she grows up.”