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Smallest kidney transplant patient to have a different Christmas

Three-year-old Olly Cartmill is in for a very special Christmas this year.

Olly is the smallest - and one of the youngest - recipients of a kidney transplant in Northern Ireland.

He was just 13kg (29lbs) when he underwent the life-saving operation, receiving a live donation from his grandmother Michelle.

Before his successful transplant Olly, from Bessbrook, County Armagh, was continually fatigued and underwent up to 14 hours of dialysis every night while on a strict fluid intake restriction.

Speaking to BBC News NI, his mum Dionne said: "The previous two Christmases he was on dialysis and he was tired and fed up.

"Now he's getting so much enjoyment out of all the toys and I can't wait to see his face this Christmas morning."

7 December 2023

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