The girl who wouldn't survive' KATE'S REASON TO SMILE

The fact she's alive and thriving is nothing short of a miracle, but courage  runs deep in her family

- Aroha Awarau

Kate ChandulalDee's unique and infectious smile can brighten anyone's day.

It's a gift she's always had and, coupled with her optimistic outlook, it has helped Kate bravely face many challenges in life.

Kate was born with the rare genetic disorder Crouzon syndrome, which causes bones of the face and skull to fuse early, and has resulted in her having 138 operations to date.

"Overcoming all of the adversities in my life is like my superpower," she enthuses. "I know I can achieve anything in my life because I have learned from my experience. Going through the hard challenges makes it worth it because it makes all of the good things wonderful!"

The Weekly first met Kate in 2011, when she was just seven years old and starting school. Now 20, Kate is all grown up and has just finished the last of her exams at Edgewater College in Auckland. She's looking forward to entering tertiary study and plans to graduate with a degree in the creative arts and media.

"School has been important to keep me going and to help me with my self-confidence," she tells. "Through school, I found my abilities and talents, like writing and drama. I've also learned how to be enthusiastic and passionate."