DURING what has been a very traumatic time, in fact possibly the worst time of my life - I refer to the recent transplant operations of both my children Emma and Matthew - I have taken considerable comfort from the help and support offered by so many people.

This letter is to say a huge 'thank you' to all those people.

To begin with, what wonderful neighbours I have.

Not only have their cards, letters, telephone calls and visits been a source of strength, but their offers of practical help have been so generous and much appreciated.

Members of Bolton Hockey Club have shown true friendship, and we have all benefitted from their lively and entertaining hospital visits. Even the newlyweds popped in before starting their honeymoon.

To pupils, staff, and parents of both the schools where Emma and I have worked at - Harper Green and Mount St Joseph - again your best wishes and support have been invaluable.

My strength through all this has been my dearest sister, Marion, who abandoned her own home and life to be with us throughout the whole ordeal.

People we haven't seen for years have made contact - old school friends of mine, when 30 years ago I was in Ainsworth; people who knew Emma and Matthew as children; my late husband's friends and colleagues

Many of these people are now committed to encouraging others to sign the organ donor register, knowing someone whose life has been changed because of a transplant makes the message very real - 'Don't take your organs to Heaven, Heaven knows we need them here on Earth'.

Again, to everyone, a huge 'thank you', we have been overwhelmed by everyone's kindness and concern.

From an experience I wouldn't wish on anyone so many positives have resulted.

Mrs Marlene Rimmer

Brook Gardens

Harwood