An east London teenager has scored top grades in her GCSE despite having to fit her studies around being a carer for her two blind parents.
Cother Nada Toba, 16, from Forest Gate, has her heart set on becoming doctor after learning on Thursday that she achieved a string of 8 and 9s in her exams.
Her mother was born blind and was diagnosed with cancer when Cother was aged eight, while her father started to lose his sight when he developed Parkinson’s around six years ago.
His physical deterioration prompted an interest in neurology for Cother, which inspired her to want to become a medic.
She has applied to go on to study biology, chemistry maths and psychology at Newham Colliegate Sixth Form.
The Forest Gate Community School student said: “My success is down to a lot of hard work. I wanted to get these grades to make my parents proud.
“I was highly motivated to do well so I can go into medicine and specifically the field of neurology.
“When my dad's condition started to deteriorate, I was doing a lot of research, and after going to appointments with my dad, I just want to do research to help my dad and other people with Parkinson’s.
“My mum was born blind, so my childhood was different to other people. The first word I learnt was ‘step’. My mum always had to look out for steps.
“I grew up having to care for my parents. My oldest brother was also born blind so he needs help as well.
“I think my experiences have made me more resilient. I know it’s a lot to go through but I never think, why me, or it’s unfair. I see these experience as building strength.”
She added: “The school has been a great support, they've been really understanding of my situation.
“They've been really supportive. Honestly, especially during the GCSE period, they were really understanding and helpful.”
