A Perth youngster who received the gift of life from her father has helped light up her neighbourhood for Christmas.
David Hunter, 45, donated one of his kidneys to save little Rebecca who was born with a potentially life-threatening condition.
Rebecca, who turns five next week, endured two-and-a-half years of chemo dialysis to treat bilateral cystic kidney disease, a genetic disorder that can cause serious organ failure.
On Sunday night, she joined her dad and the rest of the family, including mum Tracey Nelson and older sister Rachael, for a street party to say thanks to Children’s Hospices Across Scotland, better known as CHAS.
The charity, which runs Rachel House in Kinross, gave crucial respite and support to the family during Rebecca’s treatment.
David said he wanted to throw a celebration to raise funds and show gratitude to the organisation.
The street party saw the switch-on of a 10,000 light display at the family home.
David said: “Rebecca is fully recovered since her transplant in March.
“Apart from one hospital stay for a slight infection, she has not required any further dialysis. Her blood levels have been brilliant.”
He said: “It was a difficult time for all of us. We have no transport of our own, so we were travelling by ambulance to Glasgow three times a week, for three hours on a dialysis machine.
“For a three and four-year-old that is very trying. She didn’t really understand it.”
David said all of the family were assessed for a kidney transplant.
“I was the only one who was a match,” he explained.
“There were a lot of tests involved, but eventually we were given the all clear for surgery in March.
“It was an easy decision for me. I knew if I was going to be a match I would do it, no hesitation at all.”
David, who said he feels no different after the transplant, said: “CHAS helped us immensely, before and after the surgery.
“Rebecca was getting one-to-one care there, and that gave us time to spend with Rachael.
“Rebecca loves visiting Rachel House and we’re due to go back for a stay next week for her birthday.”
He said: “This was our way of thanking Rachel House for helping us over the last four years.”
Sunday night’s party was supported by scores of families from around the Muirton area.
