HUNDREDS of teenagers are to come together to celebrate the life of a school friend who died of brain cancer.
Jessica Hope Gauntley, pictured, was just 16 when she lost her battle against an aggressive form of the disease.
Now her family and friends have launched a foundation designed to help other teenagers with cancer.
Jessica, of Long Eaton, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year after suffering mild headaches. The pain suddenly became more severe and a large tumour was discovered.
She died ten months later.
Family and friends have founded the Jessica Hope Foundation to raise funds towards a new teenage cancer ward at the Queen's Medical Centre and for further brain cancer research, and to develop awareness.
The first event will be held on Sunday at Jessica's old school, Trent College in Long Eaton.
Her mother, Karen Gauntley, said: "She was a very beautiful, gentle girl but she was also adventurous, with lots and lots of interests. This foundation has been set up as a tribute to her grace and bravery. It is part of Jess's legacy."
The launch event on Sunday will include a sports tournament and live music.
One of Jessica's closest friends, Jess Blanche, said: "The support so far has been overwhelming."
