THE FAMILY of a 12-year-old girl saved by a liver transplant are planning a fundraising event to thank a children’s charity that helped them.

Amy Torok’s stepdad Daryll Hunter said surgery a year ago had totally transformed the schoolgirl’s life.

Now he and Amy’s mum Lauren, who live at Wembley Avenue, Thornton, are planning an event at the Raggalds Inn, Queensbury, to show their appreciation to the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation.

Amy was born with Alagille Syndrome, a genetic condition affecting one in every 100,000 births which can affect the liver and other organs like the heart.

Although there is no cure for it, there are ways it can be treated, but a transplant is only considered for patients whose condition is so severe it cannot be controlled in any other way. One of the symptoms is itching, being jaundiced, having nose bleeds and in some cases an enlarged liver and spleen.

Last February, Amy had her transplant and was in Leeds General Infirmary for three weeks. Her liver had not been working properly, she was on a lot of medication and looked green, said Mr Hunter. But almost 12 months later, Amy is keeping well and has to go to hospital just once a year for a check-up.

“She’s completely transformed. She’s not green anymore, in fact she’s rosy pink! She’s just like any other 12-year-old girl,” added Mr Hunter.

The family is hoping local businesses and individuals will help provide prizes for a raffle at the event being organised for some time in May, from football tickets to meals out and pamper sessions to chocolates.

Facepainting, a DJ, food and raffle will be just some of the attractions at the event, said Mr Hunter. He added: “We need people’s support to raise as much money as possible for the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation. We are so grateful for all they help they’ve given us that we want to give some help back to say thank you and help them keep helping others.”

Last year, Amy’s stepmum Alison Naylor helped organise a surprise party for Amy which was attended by about 100 of her family and friends and raised £446.13 for the charity. Some of Amy’s friends also organised a dizzy penalty shootout in the park by Thornton Road on Sunday to further boost funds. To support Amy’s fundraiser later this year call Mr Hunter on 07926546968 or go to childliverdisease.org or justgiving.com/cldf.

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