Student Who Postponed Studies To Care For Dying Mum Graduates With First
A girl who selflessly put her studies on hold so she could care for her dying mum has was overcome when her former classmates surprised her at her graduation.
Jessica Hawley quit university and returned to Cyprus in 2010 when her mum was diagnosed with cancer.
But the determined 24-year-old fulfilled her mum’s dying wish and returned to De Montfort University, Leicester, where she graduated with a first.
Six years after originally starting her Video and Photography degree, Jessica was ‘delighted’ to receive a first at her graduation on July 19.
But the surprise arrival of her three best friends and former classmates sealed the deal for the emotional graduate.
Jessica hadn’t seen friends Geidy Richard, Sachiko Pap and Anastasia Yiasemi - all aged 24 - for over a year, and couldn’t hold back the tears when she spotted them.
Reunited: The former classmates met at De Montfort University (Caters)
Jessica said: “I am a bit hysterical actually and slightly in shock - and delighted too. These girls are like sisters to me.
"We all started our foundation degree together at DMU but I took three years out as a full-time carer to my mum - so it took a lot to come back. It’s been six years, but I did it.”
Jessica’s mum passed away in September 2013 following a battle with liver cancer.
Jessica’s auntie and uncle, Kim and Alan Barnes, took over as Jessica’s legal guardians and were also at her graduation.
Kim, 57, said: “Her mum always said, 'finish for me. Do not make me an excuse’.
"It was so hard for Jessica to return to study. Not only did she do that but she also got a first. We are just so proud of her. Her story is very special to us all.”
Sachiko, who graduated in Textile Design in 2014, said: “Geidy and I live together in London and have been planning this for some time.
"It is amazing how Jessica returned to DMU and completed her degree. We are so proud of her.”
Geidy, who previously graduated in Fashion Marketing, said: “We are best friends and this is what we do for each other. We celebrate the good times and help out when times are bad.”
Anastasia, who was flying back to Cyprus the next day, said: “We all started together so we wanted to finish together too.”
Top image: Caters
