Aneesha Hussain has Franconi Syndrome with cystinosis, and while she has to take regular and sometimes painful medication, wants to live as normal a life as possible.

She has limited eyesight and the condition also affects the muscles and nervous system, leading to difficulties with swallowing and breathing and seizures.

A gastronomy tube provides her with medicine and food throughout the night and she has to have eye drops six times a day.

The condition, which is fatal for children in their early teens, claimed the life of her elder brother Waqar two years ago.

Her mum Mussarat Khan said she was her "little star" who always gives 100 per cent despite what she's going through.

She was diagnosed with cystinosis at three months old but the extremely rare Franconi Syndrome just over a year ago.

Mrs Khan said: "Up to age seven she could play her favourite games but now she can't even watch TV.

"But she just likes being normal. I'm just so proud of her. She's really brave. I give up sometimes but not her."

Aneesha, of Ravens Walk, Scout Hill, has been nominated by her school, Boothroyd Junior and Infant, who say that despite now beginning to question her own mortality she is bright, bubbly and cheerful.

A letter from bursar Marilyn Robinson and teaching assistant Elizabeth Crowther said: "Aneesha is a very happy, confident child with an outgoing nature. She tries to take part in all activities and is a very independent girl."

Aneesha also has an elder brother and and a younger brother and sister who do not have the condition.

DO you know a Champion Child?

This is the question we are asking our readers as we launch our eighth annual Champion Children awards.

The awards were hugely successful last year in finding and recognising the achievements of children in our area and this year we're hoping to do even better.

The aim is to celebrate the triumphs and successes of special children, aged up to 16, in the north Kirklees and south Leeds areas.

The award categories are: courage; triumph over adversity; helping the community; helping the environment; achievements in academia; achievements in music and performing arts. These categories are only guidelines so if you're thinking of nominating a child but their achievements don't fit into a specific category, don't worry – send us the nomination anyway. If you want more guidance and information call event co-ordinator Liz Allen on 01924 375111, ext 3440. To nominate a child write a letter of no more than 200 words explaining why the child should be nominated and post it to: Richard Firth, the Reporter Limited, 17 Wellington Road, Dewsbury, WF13, 1HQ. Please mark your envelope 'Champion Children'.