HOW unforgivable of me for taking such an age to say a huge and sincere 'thank you'.

I do apologise for the delay but only now, nine weeks on from Matthew's transplant, do I seem to have the time to breathe and write this long-overdue letter.

I would like to take this opportunity of thanking everyone who has shown an interest in Matthew's story.

We have had a few hiccups since his transplant, three extra stays in hospital but fortunately, at the moment, he is doing well and has stayed out of hospital for more than two weeks now!

We have been strengthened in body and mind by the overwhelming support of so many people, those who knew him before the transplant and those who have contacted us since the struggle first hit the headlines. The type of help has varied, the support huge.

More than 60 get well cards were received in hospital, gifts and donations came from colleagues and customers of Mecca Bingo Breightmet.

Bolton Hockey Club made numerous visits to hospital, St John Ambulance offered help with transport and friends and neighbours provided much needed moral support and their encouragement.

The Mayor of Bolton has taken a special interest in transplant patients and the Bolton Evening News has highlighted problems encountered by kidney patients.

There have been so many individuals who have helped to make a very difficult time less traumatic than it could and would have been.

Matthew, Emma and myself are now trying to repay some of the kindness by supporting the Mayor's Gift of Life Appeal.

Matthew now has the chance of being an 'ordinary' teenager and doing things we all take for granted and yet are so precious once they are denied us.

No words can ever express our feelings for the brave family of the donor.

Thoughts

So many times I have attempted to write to them. Gary Odlum's family are always in our thoughts.

What sorrow they are enduring and yet other families will be forever in their debt

The kindness of the people of Bolton is unquestionable.

Marlene Rimmer

Brook Gardens

Harwood