The 12-year-old Year 8 pupil had been at Markethill High School for only two weeks before she was involved in a horrific lawnmower accident which resulted in both legs having to be amputated just below the knee.
But Chelsea hasn't let the trauma of a double amputation hold her back and her strength of character and bravery have been an inspiration to the medical profession, her friends, and family members who have witnessed her steely determination on a daily basis.
After an absence of three months, Chelsea's 'first day back' nerves were steadied by a special 'Welcome' banner made and erected by staff and pupils, and it wasn't long before she was back to her studies and chatting amongst friends.
"I have been keeping up with school work through a special 'hospital school' , but I missed my first term exams, " said Chelsea, who was relaxing at her grandparents' Redrock Road home outside Markethill. "But, even though I missed the exams, I will be doing the papers anyway - it seems I'm not getting off that easily!"
studies
Getting back to her studies is only one of her goals - she already has a new hockey stick and intends to try out for the house hockey trials to play in nets. And, as an award-winning Highland dancer, she is soon to take a theory exam to keep up her interest in what has been a been a passion for seven years.
"Walking on my new legs is pretty easy; it is just putting them on which hurts sometimes and is more of an ordeal," she said. "I learned to walk again with the help of crutches, but I have been off the crutches now for two weeks.
"There is no real pain and they have been giving me medication for the 'phantom' pains that amputees have in limbs which are no longer there - that can be a nuisance. These are pretty basic 'legs', but in the future I hope to have more advanced ones, maybe two pairs - one for sports and one for every day!"
The only real setback in Chelsea's amazing recovery has been a stubborn wound on one of her legs, but, thanks to the astonishing healing properties of maggots and the more traditional treament of antibiotics, this also has now healed.
"Chelsea's attitude has undoubtedly played the main part in her recovery, but the huge support we have received from everyone - from hospital staff, to fund-raising band members and footballers - has contributed massively in getting her to this point," said proud dad, Quincey. "We have never looked back; after this happened, there was only one way to look - and that was forward.
"A positive frame of mind is vital."