Family says thanks to hospice with festive fundraising party

Youngster received support from charity in her time of need

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.

Last night, she joined her dad and the rest of the family, including mum Tracey Nelson and older sister Rachael, for a street party in Muirton to say thanks to Children’s Hospices Across Scotland, better known as CHAS.

The charity, which runs Rachel House in Kinross, gave 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.

This was our way of thanking Rachel House for helping us over the last four years. DAVID HUNTER

The street party included 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-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. This was our way of thanking Rachel House for helping us over the last four years.”

“Rebecca loves visiting Rachel House and we’re due to go back for a stay next week for her birthday.” jabuchan@thecourier.co.uk

Picture: Kenny Smith. Rebecca with her dad David, who gave her one of his kidneys.