Norwich woman who lost limbs to illness is set to carry Olympic flame

A quadruple amputee is set to be joined by her canine partner when she carries the Olympic flame this summer.

Helen Dolphin, 36, from Costessey, Norwich has been chosen as a London 2012 Olympic torchbearer. She will be accompanied on the by her dog Yancey, who came from Canine Partners, a charity that provides highly trained assistance dogs to people with disabilities.

Mrs Dolphin lost her limbs due to meningococcal septicaemia, which is the blood poisoning form of meningitis.

In 2006, she graduated with Yancey, who has helped her turn her life around. She said: 'The practical help that Yancey provides is as valuable as the love she gives me. I've learnt to walk again, thanks to her.'

Mrs Dolphin, who was nominated by her husband, will carry the Olympic flame as part of the Olympic torch relay through King's Lynn on Wednesday, July 4.

'I am delighted to have been chosen,' said Mrs Dolphin. 'It will be such a privilege for myself and Yancey to play a part in the London 2012 Olympics.

'Having Yancey has allowed me to follow my dreams in a more happy and confident way, whilst also spreading the word about coping with disability – this is the icing on the cake.'