Maria Jackson, left, and Mary de Garis. (Picture by Steve Sarre, 0843838)

A FILIPINO nurse is eternally grateful to the people who helped save her sister’s life.

Maria Jackson, 30, has worked at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital for six years and is currently employed on Victoria Wing.

When she got married last summer, her sister, Carolina Ricerra, another nurse, came to Guernsey to be a bridesmaid.

Within a few days, Miss Ricerra, 27, suffered acute kidney failure and was told she needed a transplant.

The family were unable to afford the cost of the operation but islanders, including the Filipino community, pulled together and raised £7,400.

Miss Ricerra had the operation in her home country in April and she is now looking forward to getting back to work.

Mrs Jackson said she owed so much to her friend, Mary de Garis, who also originates from the Philippines.

‘Without Mary’s help we would not have been able to raise the money we needed as my mind was blank at the time that my sister was ill,’ said Mrs Jackson. ‘My mum would have had to sell her house if we hadn’t got the money.’

Two bric-a-brac sales and raffles were held at St Martin’s Community Centre and a fellow Filipino, Fely Flambard, did two or three car boot sales to raise money.

Ted Aslett donated £1,000 to the cause while another person, who wishes to remain anonymous, gave £2,000. The fundraiser was supported by several companies and individuals and Mrs Jackson wanted to thank them all.