A Balham school teenager who has overcome life-changing disabilities has been awarded an achievement for her efforts in swimming.

Jessica Howard, of Oak Lodge School, received the Outstanding Achievement award from Panathlon ambassador and Olympic gold medallist Liz Johnson.

The 17-year-old lives with CHARGE syndrome and has retinal Coloma, a hole in one of the structures in the eye.

It is said to sometimes be caused when a, termed the choroidal fissure, gap does not completely close before birth and produces blindness.

Jessica was said to be ‘very shy’ and ‘talked to herself’, but has made significant improvements within the last year to enhance both her communication and interaction skills.

She has since competed in boccia – or disability sport – competitions, participating in the Panathlon East Swimming finals at the Olympic Aquatics Centre in [area], as well as the London Deaf Multisport Panathlon and Lonathan Panathlon finals at the Copper Box Arena in [area].

Mother Flo Njeru said: “If it wasn’t for Jessica’s disabilities, she would be the easiest teenager ever. She’s a real adventurer and loves things that give her lots of sensory input.

“She just loves life. Whatever sport is thrown at her, she just loves giving it a go.”

Jessica’s teacher Dolapo Akande said: “I am very proud of Jessica. She has improved in so many ways. She has been hugely excited about every Panathlon event and thrilled to be involved.

“To win this trophy is fantastic for her.”

Oak Lodge School, in Nightingale Lane, specialises in students who have hearing, speech, language and communication needs, while Panathlon is a sporting charity which works with children who have disabilities and special education needs in sports.

Jessica received her ‘highly commended’ award at the Jack Petchey Outstanding Achievement Awards at John Lewis Stratford City, near to Queen Elizabeth II Olympic Park.