A picture of health

THAT’S what friends are for: Liz Whitworth (left) donated a kidney to Mark Holden (centre). Liz is a lifetime friend of Ruth Holden (right)

An extraordinary act of friendship has given a Shaw man a new lease of life.

Liz Whitworth and her best friend’s husband Mark Holden are recovering well following a successful kidney transplant.

Liz (45) underwent surgery to pass on her healthy kidney to Mark, who suffers from a genetic degenerative disorder, Polycystic Kidney Disease. Mark was destined for dialysis without a transplant.

A fortnight after the operation, the friends are back at home and progressing well.

Liz, of Meadow Rise, High Crompton, said: “Everybody has been really amazing. I received hundreds of cards wishing me well. My husband Nigel, my children and Ruth, Mark’s wife, have just been so supportive.

“People have said what a good thing I’ve done - but I didn’t think twice, to help Mark.”

Mark, of Greencroft Meadow, said: “I am feeling fine after the operation. Before I was feeling more and more tired. Early signs look good because having the transplant from a live donor gives a much better chance of success.

“I am so glad Liz is recovering well at home. I am very grateful for what she has done.”

Liz added: “I was quite sick for a couple of days after the operation, but then I couldn’t believe how quickly I got better.

“I urge people to add their names to the NHS Organ Donor Register list to help people in need of a transplant.”

St Thomas’ Leesfield C of E Primary School, Lees, where Liz works, is holding a sports-filled fundraising day on Friday, in aid for PKD Charity UK.

Youngsters will take part in a number of physical and healthy activities — including an assault course — and invite people to watch and pledge their support on the day.

Also on Friday. pupils from Crompton House School will take charge of a cake sale in aid of the national charity.

More than 30 people will also take part in the Bupa 10K Great Manchester Run on Sunday, May 26 for PKD Charity UK.

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/RunForPKD 
To add your name to the NHS Organ Donor Register go online to www.organdonation.nhs.uk