A TEENAGER with a serious health condition has raised thousands of pounds for the hospitals which have cared for her.

Sophie Washington, 14, was diagnosed with a complex form of Type 1 diabetes five years ago.

Since then Sophie, from Rooks Hill, WGC, has continued to raise money for the QE2 and Lister Hospitals, where she has been a long-term patient.

Despite her health deteriorating rapidly, she has raised �6,000 after starting a project before Christmas to buy constant glucose monitoring equipment (CGM) for the hospitals.

Sophie made and sold cakes to raise the funds, as well as receiving support from various community groups and schools.

These include the Barn Theatre in WGC, which organised a charity night of a play in which Sophie had a small role and a fundraising raflle was held.

Bishop’s Hatfield Girls’ School, where Sophie is a pupil, ran a mufti day as did Applecroft School in WGC, while pupils at Holwell School held an Easter egg tombola and there was a sponsored spell at Harwood Hill.

Bluebell Children’s Ward at Lister has also profited with a �1,000 donation from Sophie to purchase new outdoor toys, a guinea pig hutch and a revamp of the staff room – a thank you to those who have cared for her over the years.

To help with the refurbishment, Sophie has also gained the support of local businesses, including WGC department store John Lewis, which donated a new fridge freezer, and WGC firm Howdens Joinery, which gave a new kitchenette.

Sophie’s mother, Lisa, said: “Sophie is a wonderful girl who despite the huge difficulties she faces always remains positive and looks to help others.

“She is a role model for young people everywhere and an inspiration to all who know and love her.”

The redecoration and installation for the staff room is due to take place in August and Sophie is keen to find a supplier who can either donate or discount some leather sofas that will meet infection control standards, as well as a plumber who could supply and replace an old sink.

To make a donation to support the cause or to help in any practical way, contact Sophie’s mother Lisa via the Welwyn Hatfield Times newsdesk on 01707 327551.