My donor gave me a kidney. And the two best gifts ever
TRANSPLANT PATIENT’S JOY AFTER SECOND BABY Mum hails friend’s selfless act
Heather Greenaway After having a kidney transplant nine years ago, Laura Ritchie feared she would never be a mum.
But now her dream has come true for a second time.
The 31-year-old, who received a kidney from a family friend in 2007, gave birth to 8lb 3oz Emma Nicole on September 1, three years after having daughter Lucy.
Laura, of Lenzie, near Glasgow, says she owes so much to the donor who saved her life and enabled her to have two children.
Laura, who is married to IT boss Calum, 31, said: “We are over the moon with our two wee babies. They are our little miracles and I keep having to pinch myself to make sure it’s real.
“I had a skin cancer scare in August last year and we decided we were happy with our lot and gave up trying for another baby but Emma obviously had other ideas.
“We were overjoyed when we found out I was pregnant in January.
“I sailed through the pregnancy even though I was classed as ‘ high risk’ because of all the medication I am on due to the transplant. I cannot thank my donor enough for saving my life and giving me not one but two incredible gifts. I am truly blessed.”
After her transplant, Laura learned about the vital work of Darlinda’s Charity for Renal Research, who were set up by Rita Madhok – better known as Sunday Mail astrologer Darlinda.
She said: “I couldn’t wait to tell the charity about the safe arrival of Emma. I am here today thanks to the research they and other renal charities have funded. I’m enjoying every minute of being a mum.”