A 55-year-old man in Tadcaster, UK, Andy Emmott, has donated his kidney to save the life of 11-year-old Amber, inspired by his late daughter’s battle with kidney disease.
From grief to giving: Man donates kidney to honour daughter’s memory
Emmott is an employee at Northern Powergrid.
According to GB News on Monday, Emmott’s daughter, Sarah, passed away at just eight years old after receiving a kidney transplant from a stranger—a gesture that left an indelible mark on her father.
Tragically, Sarah lost her fight with congenital nephrotic syndrome exactly 364 days after her transplant, but her story of courage continues to inspire.
“I donated a kidney because a kind stranger donated one to my daughter,” Emmott explained.
“When I saw Amber’s appeal, the similarities with Sarah’s story were striking. I knew I had to step forward.”
Emmott’s selfless decision proved life-changing for Amber, as he turned out to be “a very good match.”
His journey from grieving father to life-saving donor has not only brought hope to Amber’s family but has also shone a light on the power of paying kindness forward, BBC also reported on Monday.
While grappling with Sarah’s diagnosis and treatment during the coronavirus pandemic, Emmott found solace in supporting Theodora Children’s Charity.
The charity’s “Giggle Doctors”—trained performers who blend music, storytelling, and magic—brought moments of joy to Sarah during her stays at Leeds General Infirmary.
“They brought so much joy and laughter to her,” Emmott recalled. “It was a great distraction and a boost to her spirits.”
Emmott has since dedicated himself to raising funds for the charity, which focuses on improving children’s mental health and resilience during hospital stays.
During Emmott’s recovery, Amanda White, his manager at Northern Powergrid, paid him a visit and was struck by Sarah’s enduring presence in his home.
“Her presence is everywhere, photo after photo,” White observed. “It’s clear how loved she is and how happy she was, despite everything she went through.”
“In every photo, Sarah is wearing the most infectious smile,” she added. “For Andy to channel his grief into giving another little girl a chance at life is truly remarkable.”