Growing up, Katherine Scott-Davies was surrounded by a supportive and loving family that believed in her potential and have encouraged her every step of the way. Born in 1998, Katherine was diagnosed with Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS) a year and a half after her birth. As we celebrate National Siblings Day, we also shine a spotlight on the extraordinary bond shared between Katherine and her two sisters, Charlotte and Hannah.
Katherine’s journey was profoundly shaped by the love and aspirations of her grandfather (Rachel’s father), a passionate walker, who had climbed Snowdon a number of times during his lifetime but had hoped to climb with Katherine and see her reach the summit. Sadly poor health prevented him from achieving that last climb. Nevertheless, Katherine’s family pledged to take on the challenge and support The SMS Foundation UK. Together with her parents, Rachel and Paul, and supported by sisters Charlotte and Hannah, they undertook a remarkable expedition to conquer Snowdon’s summit, raising £2,000 for the SMS Foundation UK along the way.
Rachel and Katherine attended their first SMS conference in London in 2003, describing it as ‘absolutely amazing and worthwhile, with so much to take away, and the biggest value was being able to talk to other families and share stories and experiences’. Since then Katherine and Rachel have attended several other SMS conferences along with sisters, Charlotte and Hannah.
Throughout her upbringing, Katherine and her family resided on the premises of their family-run garden centre business, dedicating most of their time to work throughout the week. Katherine was able to get involved and help out, gaining some valuable work experience and helping her parents with the book-keeping by collecting receipts, adding them up, and putting them in the book.
From her early years in mainstream primary school with specialist provision to her secondary education at St Joseph’s, Katherine thrived in well-structured environments that nurtured her potential. With the support of her family and education providers, she was able to access the GCSE curriculum and participate in extracurricular activities that enriched her experience. Her positive experiences at primary and secondary school paved the way for her continued success at Derwen College where she developed essential life skills, participated in the Duke of Edinburgh awards, and flourished amidst a supportive community.
While at Derwen College, Katherine had the chance to refine her independent living abilities through courses covering hospitality, catering, and essential life skills. The college not only provided academic education but also fostered social connections and personal development—a holistic approach that empowered Katherine to thrive.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Katherine channeled her passion for music by learning to play the piano and achieving grade 3, as well as participating in performances at concerts in the village hall.
Today, Katherine resides in an adult supported living house along with three learning-disabled adults, where she continues to lead a fulfilling and active life. Her busy life includes working part-time in a local café along with another job for The National Trust Erddig estate, in Wrexham. An avid reader, Katherine visits the library regularly. Additionally, she actively engages in a group named Emerge, where she participates in dance, drama, and music activities alongside adults with disabilities. Katherine thoroughly enjoys taking part in the group’s productions. Every Wednesday evening, she joins an adults-with-disabilities disco, and once a month, she attends another disco at the Flamingo Lounge. Singing karaoke and assisting with bingo are among Katherine’s true passions.
Despite her bustling schedule Katherine still manages to spend cherished weekends and quality time at home with her family. We draw inspiration from the dedication of Katherine’s mother, Rachel, as well as the extraordinary bond between Katherine and her sisters, Charlotte and Hannah, who continue to be her rock offering love, laughter, and support whenever she needs it.
Ellen Wotherspoon and her remarkable sporting journey