A teenager from Isleworth who has cared for her brain-damaged little sister since birth has received a national award.

Cheyenne McLaughlin, of Marlborough Road and attends Brentford School for Girls, was just eight when her little sister Caitlin had a stroke hours before being born five years ago.

The 13-year-old has developed a 'special bond' with her younger sister, who developed extensive brain damage and was born with conditions including cerebral palsy, epilepsy and severe visual impairment.

Cheyenne washes and dresses her younger sister and feeds her breakfast so she is ready for lessons at Lindon Bennett School in Hanworth.

The teenager also ensures her little sister is understood when she struggles to get the message across herself.

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Her efforts were recognised at the Stroke Association Life After Stroke Awards held last Thursday, June 12, where she was presented with the Carer's Award by TV star Tamsin Greig.

Cheyenne said she loved spending time with her little sister and hoped to become a teacher to special needs children one day so she could help youngsters like Caitlin.

Cheyenne McLaughlin with her little sister Caitlin

"Caitlin's my little sister, and I want to do as much as I can to help her. Caitlin can't do a lot of things other children can, but she's a very special sister and I love spending time with her. Most days I help wash and dress Caitlin, get her ready for school and feed her breakfast," she added.

"I like to do as much as I can to help other disabled children like Caitlin, and hope to become a teacher one day. When I found out I'd won the award, I thought it was an April Fool. It still hasn't sunk in!"

Cheyenne's mother Sharon McLaughlin said she was very proud of her older daughter, who loves watching movies and listening to music with her little sister.

"From the minute Cheyenne met Caitlin in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, I knew she would be a special sister," added the 35-year-old mum-of-four.

"She has always been eager to help Caitlin in any way she could. She's first to guide her sister, to keep her safe - she's her voice when no-one else understands Caitlin. Cheyenne has taken on a massive role as a carer.

"Caitlin’s stroke changed all our lives, but Cheyenne’s special bond with her sister makes my heart burst with pride every day."

The Stroke Association's Life After Stroke Awards, sponsored by TONI&GUY Charitable Foundation, recognise the courage shown by stroke survivors and carers as well as the great work and commitment shown by health professionals, groups and supporter organisations.

Stroke Association chief executive Jon Barrick said: "These awards are all about celebrating the passion and determination of people who show that there is life after stroke. We are delighted to pay tribute to the support Cheyenne gives her family and the remarkable work she carries out each day as a carer. She has much to be proud of at such a young age."

getwestlondon reported last week how a charity which supports carers in the area was closing due to a lack of funding.