In a remarkable story of resilience and medical advancements, three-year-old Etta Cartmill is preparing to undergo her second life-changing transplant operation. Born with a rare genetic condition known as TTC21B, which causes kidney failure, Etta and her older brother Olly have faced a remarkable journey filled with medical challenges and triumphs.
Etta’s story began when her family discovered that both she and Olly were affected by this exceptionally rare condition, which does not even have a common name. Olly, who was just 13kg (29lbs) at the time, underwent a kidney transplant in September 2023, receiving a live donation from his grandmother, Michelle.
The Cartmill family’s ordeal, however, was far from over. Last year, they learned that Etta also required a liver transplant, a shocking revelation that left them reeling. Dionne Cartmill, Etta’s mother, recounts the family’s anguish, stating, “Beforehand, the child was miserable. She’d awful pains in her stomach, she’d cried constantly. There was nothing you could do to settle her.”
After an 11-hour surgery in September, Etta’s liver transplant was a success, and she is now described as “absolutely thriving.” Her mother notes a remarkable transformation, with Etta’s personality and overall well-being blossoming. “From when Etta got the liver transplant, she’s absolutely thriving. Her wee personality and everything’s coming through,” Dionne proudly states.
However, Etta’s journey is not yet complete. The family has recently learned that Dionne is a match to donate a kidney to her daughter, and they are eagerly awaiting the date for this third life-changing surgery. “It’s going to be me so I’m absolutely delighted. Waiting on the date,” Dionne exclaims, expressing her excitement to provide her daughter with this vital organ.
The Cartmill family’s resilience and determination have been truly inspiring. Olly, who has also undergone a successful kidney transplant, is now described as a “wee boy that he always should have been” – full of energy, ideas, and a zest for life. This family’s story is a testament to the power of medical advancements and the unwavering love and support of loved ones.
As Etta prepares for her second transplant, the community rallies behind the Cartmills, offering their thoughts and prayers for a successful outcome. The family’s journey serves as a reminder of the incredible strength and resilience that can be found in the face of adversity, and the profound impact that organ donation can have on transforming lives.
