Worksop: Inspirational teenager was inspired to become hospital volunteer and study nursing after helping mum through cancer

Mandy Cooper presented the Guardian Rose to her daughter Kayleigh who is a student at North Notts College. Kayleigh was nominated for helping her mum through breast cancer which inspired her to go to college and study to become a nurse.

More than a few tears were shed during the surprise presentation on Thursday 12th March at North Notts College where Kayleigh Cooper is now studying to become a nurse.

Juggling her studies with looking after her mum, the selfless teen also finds time to hold down a busy job at a local supermarket and has just applied to become a volunteer at Weston Park Hospital in Sheffield.

Kayleigh’s mum, Mandy Cooper, could not praise Kayleigh’s efforts enough when she contacted the Guardian to nominate her for the award.

She said: “I am so incredibly proud of Kayleigh and everything she has achieved and continues to achieve.”

“I think it’s fantastic that helping me through my illness has inspired her to go into nursing. There’s noboody better for or more deserving of the job than her!”

Mandy surprised Kayleigh with the rose during one of her college classes, and said: “It got very emotional. Kayleigh was a bit taken aback and some of the students were welling up when I walked in with the rose and told her how proud I am of her. She is truly inspirational,” added Mandy.

Our Guardian roses are provided by Walker’s House of Flowers in the Priory Shopping Centre - call 01909 484507 for more information.

Do you know an unsung hero who deserves some recognition? You can nominate someone special for a Guardian Rose by calling 01909 500500 or emailing [email protected]