THE young Kilkenny woman who recently received a heart and lung transplant has herself given a gift of life to a young English boy.
Ms Deirdre Roche's heart, which was perfectly healthy, was transplanted to a chronically ill 12 year old. A fortnight after the two operations at London's Great Ormonde Street hospital, both patients are doing well.
Ms Roche (19), of Elm Green, Ardnore - who suffered from cystic fibrosis - and the boy, who has not been named, share the same birthday, August 12th.
"It is marvellous," said Mrs Una Roche, the young woman's mother. "Deirdre is doing great and the little boy is also thriving. It is tremendous that a young boy was given a chance of a long life with Deirdre's heart."
Doctors are pleased with Ms Roche's progress. A few days ago she felt fit enough to leave the hospital and dined in a nearby restaurant.