A BRAVE girl from Droitwich has enjoyed her first day of school, four years after her parents were told she had just weeks to live.

Little Imogen Raxter, who started at Sytchampton Endowed Primary School this month, was born with a rare liver disease called biliary atresia.

Surgery was unsuccessful and the tot’s parents were told she had only two weeks to live unless she was able to have a liver transplant.

“Imogen was only five weeks old when we were told she had an incurable liver disease and our world came crashing down,” recalls Kate Pullen, Imogen’s mother.

Imogen, however, proved miracles do happen and after receiving a liver transplant through the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF) aged just five months, she has continued to live an ordinary life.

Ms Pullen said: “Day to day Imogen is just an ordinary little girl who carries the most precious gift she will ever receive around with her and we will all support her to live life to the full.

“We’re delighted that she's reached this milestone and without the amazing gift from her donor she would not have had this chance.

“It’s so apt that she started school during national Organ Donation Week. Her new school have been really supportive and we are sure she will be looked after well during her time with them.”

Alison Taylor, chief executive of the CLDF, said: “A diagnosis of liver disease in your child is a shattering one for families as it means a lifetime of care.

“By providing those families with information and emotional support, we help children and young people with liver disease to manage their condition and make the most of every opportunity.

“It’s wonderful to see Imogen going off to school alongside her peers and we wish her every success in her time there.”

For more information on CLDF visit childliverdisease.org

  • Story by Vito Pauletic