Images of those who have saved lives, fought battles and survived hardships.

Then there’s Molly Deane.

At three-and-a-half years of age Molly has faced more obstacles than most adults experience in a lifetime – and she refuses to give in.

The tiny East Maitland girl was born nine weeks premature and weighing 2160g. Hours after her delivery she was diagnosed with the rare condition known as Vater (or Vacterl) syndrome and her battle with life began.

But now, more than a dozen operations later, Molly has been nominated in the Take 5 magazine’s award-winning Young Bravehearts campaign, recognising five young Australians for their courage, strength and determination.

Molly’s condition means she has vertebral, anal, cardiac, trachea, oesophageal, renal and limb abnormalities. She also has curvature of the spine and kidney problems.

And in July this year, Molly – who is the size of a two-year-old – underwent a five-hour procedure to remedy her deformed arm.

“Molly has been such a brave little girl and she continues to amaze us,” Molly’s mother Amanda Deane said.

“She’s very bubbly and she’s a very friendly little girl and I think that has a lot to do with what she’s been through.”

Molly spent the first four months of her life in hospital and there were concerns she might not walk.

“Molly has a certain strength about her and she’s quite grown-up for her age. And while she’s been through a lot there are more operations ahead of her, but she’ll get there.”

This year’s Take 5 Young Bravehearts judging panel includes Gold Logie award winner Georgie Parker, Aussie cricket icon Steve Waugh and Ron Delezio, father of young burns victim Sophie Delezio.