Eden Darcy: Birthday teen in the pink, Australia
ORGAN transplant recipient Eden Darcy has ridden in a pink limousine to celebrate her 13th birthday in style.
Eden, who was born with a rare life-threatening condition affecting vital functions, walked down a pink carpet leading to the limousine then enjoyed a one-hour ride with family and close friends.
The special event was arranged by her family to acknowledge another year of life together.
Eden was born with biliary artesia, in which the liver's bile ducts are blocked. She was diagnosed with the progressive illness at five weeks of age.
In August 2005, Eden received a new liver but the road to recovery was a tough one, requiring careful monitoring and ongoing medication.
She experienced three rejections and suffered many side effects from the medication.
Leanne Darcy said her daughter still had bad days, but she was generally happy and healthy.
Ms Darcy said it was important to acknowledge that Eden was entering the next phase of her life.
Thankful for the support of her family and friends, Eden said it was important to mark the beginning of her teenage years.
"It feels good to be grown up now. I'm going to become more mature."
Ms Darcy said Eden's story showed the importance of organ donor awareness.
"The lifespan of a transplanted liver is 15 to 25 years. But people don't realise that - they think it lasts forever."
Eden urged people to educate themselves and talk with loved ones about registering to become a donor. "If it wasn't for organ donation, I wouldn't be here today. I feel very grateful."
For more details, visit www.donatelife.gov.au

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