Ava’s party is the happiest ever

A YEAR ago, a little bit of magic happened.

One wee girl got a second chance in life thanks to a combination of factors:

A mum who refused to give up on her belief that someone, somewhere could help.

A newspaper that helped her reach the widest audience in her quest.

And an army of readers who did everything they could to make the dream come true.

That wee girl was Ava Stark, stricken by bone marrow failure. Her mum came to the Daily Record, and you, our readers, came to their rescue.

Thousands spread the word and volunteered to be tested to see if their cells were the rare match for the ailing youngster.

Eventually a donor was found who was able to provide the transplant Ava needed.

While not out of the woods, she’s gone from strength to strength.

To mark the anniversary, Ava celebrated the day her family regard as her new birthday.

So the four-year-old played with a shiny big balloon in the shape of the figure 1 illuminated by fairy lights and tinsel.

The Christmas tree was put up because it’s Ava’s favourite time of year.

Her mum Marie invited the Record along so our readers could share in the fun. Thanks to you guys, it feels like Christmas and birthdays all rolled into one.