A teenager from Alton met Prince Harry as she was named winner of the Inspirational Sibling category of the WellChild Awards 2025.

Fourteen-year-old Alessia Palikira was nominated by her mother Jane Palikira for her extraordinary devotion to her twin sister Sofia, who lives with severe cerebral palsy, global developmental delay and multiple complex health needs.

Alessia was chosen from hundreds of nominees from across the UK to receive the award at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London on September 8, when she and Jane spent time with WellChild patron Prince Harry - the Duke of Sussex - and other celebrity guests.

Jane said: “Alessia is not only Sofia’s twin, she is her best friend and carer. Her positive and empathetic attitude got me through some very dark times. I’m sure she has no idea of the positive impact she has had on our family.”

The citation read: “Since birth Alessia has shared a uniquely close bond with Sofia, who requires round-the-clock care, uses a wheelchair and is entirely dependent on others for all aspects of her daily life. Despite facing her own challenges with mild cerebral palsy, Alessia has consistently put her sister’s needs before her own with love, patience and selflessness.

“From the age of four Alessia has helped care for Sofia, keeping her entertained, comforting her when she is upset and assisting her carers when their parents are away. She regularly gives up her own time and money to find toys her sister will enjoy and created a video to help Sofia settle into her new school.

“A bright and creative teenager with a huge love for music, Alessia has made huge sacrifices without complaint, including moving counties and leaving behind her friends so her sister could attend a more suitable school. She is the first to cheer up Sofia and her calm, caring presence has helped her family through many tough times.”

The awards - run by WellChild, a national charity for seriously ill children - are in their 20th year. They celebrate the inspirational achievements of seriously ill children, young people and those who care for them.

Prince Harry met the winners and their families at a pre-ceremony reception and gave a speech during the event.

In his speech, he said: “For two decades this event has shone a bright spotlight on the needs of children and young people living with complex medical conditions. But more than that, it has celebrated something far bigger - your courage, your resilience and the extraordinary love of the families and carers who never stop showing up.

“I still remember my very first WellChild Awards, 18 years ago. I walked into the room, and within about three minutes I realised two things: the love and energy in the room was palpable, so too was the unpredictability! And second, that I was completely hooked on it all. This night has been a highlight of my year ever since and it’s all because of you guys - these children, this cause and our WellChild community.

“Since those early days, 311 WellChild Award winners have inspired us with their bravery. Today, a 53-strong team of WellChild nurses are out there making an enormous difference. Add to that a community of more than 3,600 families, plus support programmes reaching even further, and you see the real impact of what has been built here.

“More than ever, WellChild’s mission must be our shared priority. Tonight, I’d ask each of you to think about how you can play your part, whether through support, awareness or action, to help advance this crucial work.”

Among the guests were Molly-Mae Hague, Ronnie Wood, Jamie Laing and Peter Andre, with the cast of Hercules the musical and Joss Stone providing entertainment. The evening was hosted by WellChild ambassador Gaby Roslin.

Sally Beck, general manager at Inspirational Sibling category sponsor Royal Lancaster London, said: “Alessia’s creativity, kindness and unwavering devotion to her sister are truly inspirational. We are honoured to sponsor the Inspirational Sibling Award and celebrate her incredible story. She shows us the true meaning of love, patience and resilience - a shining reminder of the difference one person can make in the life of another.”

WellChild chief executive Matt James said: “Young people like Alessia embody what the WellChild Awards are all about - strength, compassion and the will to help others thrive in the face of adversity. We’re proud to have been celebrating their incredible stories for the past 20 years.

“Right across the UK, more and more families are caring for children with serious and complex health needs. Behind each child’s story is a network of extraordinary people who go above and beyond every single day.

“The WellChild Awards 2025, in association with GSK, give us the opportunity to recognise that courage and commitment, not only from the children and young people themselves, but also from their parents, siblings and the professionals who support them with unwavering dedication, determined to keep these children healthy and happy.”