Pride of Guernsey: 'an unselfish desire to fully support her elder sister'

Jess Pearce, who is in Year 11 at the Grammar School, has been nominated by Sarah Mead, chairwoman of Georgina's Gang, for the Overcoming Adversity award, sponsored by the College of Further Education.

Sarah said Jess, who's elder sister, Georgina, has Niemann Pick disease type C, was instrumental in providing ideas for fundraising and named the charity set up to help out, Georgina's Gang, after hours of head scratching by adults.

Jess coped incredibly well with the public attention created by the launch of the charity, she added.

'She was regularly asked to be photographed alongside her sister and offered to so do whilst sometimes feeling very anxious herself.'

As Georgina's illness progressed, Jess continued to overcome fears.

A 'self-professed squeamish individual' – she has watched her sister fighting to breathe during severe infections and much more.

'She has remained calm and supportive, loving and giving and duly understanding of her sister's needs. I truly believe that Jess's love and support is hugely significant in Georgina's ongoing maintenance. While now bed-bound, Georgina remains acutely aware when in the presence of those who love and care for her. Jess does this unconditionally on a daily basis whatever her own personal stresses.'

Jess has this year taken is currently taking her GCSEs.

'I cannot think of any young person more worthy of this award than Jess.'