Imagine a family's resilience in the face of a rare genetic battle. Newry's young hero, Etta Cartmill, has already conquered a life-saving liver transplant, and now, at just three years old, she's gearing up for another - a kidney transplant. But this isn't the first time the family has faced such a challenge.
Etta and her older brother, Olly, were born with a mysterious genetic condition, so rare it's known only by its medical code: TTC21B. This condition silently wreaked havoc on their tiny bodies, leading to kidney failure.
Olly, weighing a mere 29 lbs, received a kidney transplant in September 2023, thanks to a generous donation from his grandmother, Michelle. But Etta's journey has been even more tumultuous. Here's where the story takes a twist...
Etta's parents, Dionne and Neil, knew Etta shared Olly's condition and would need a kidney transplant eventually. They dedicatedly traveled from Bessbrook to Belfast multiple times a week for her dialysis, also making trips to Birmingham for specialized care.
The family was shocked to discover that Etta also required a liver transplant, a revelation that came just a year ago. In September, after an 11-hour surgery, Etta received a new liver, but the road to recovery was challenging. She needed ventilation, and her abdomen had to be covered with a mesh due to swelling.
And this is the part most people miss: Despite the hardships, Etta's transformation is remarkable. Her mother, Dionne, describes her as 'thriving', with a vibrant personality shining through. The once-miserable child, plagued by stomach pains, is now a picture of resilience.
In a heartwarming turn of events, Dionne has been confirmed as a match for Etta's kidney transplant. She's eager to donate, saying, 'I can't wait to do it.' This will be the third transplant for the young siblings, with Olly already flourishing post-transplant.
As Etta prepares for her second life-changing surgery, one can't help but wonder about the power of medical science and the strength of family bonds. Do you think Etta's story highlights the need for more awareness about rare genetic conditions? Share your thoughts below, and let's celebrate Etta's journey while exploring the complexities of modern medicine.
