A Tadcaster man gave the ultimate Christmas gift this year by donating a kidney to save the life of 11-year-old Amber.
Andy Emmott, who works for Northern Powergrid assisting customers affected by power cuts, made the life-saving donation after seeing an appeal for Amber. The cause was deeply personal for Andy, who lost his eight-year-old daughter Sarah to Congenital Nephrotic Syndrome despite a widespread campaign to find her a kidney.
“I donated a kidney because a kind stranger donated one to my daughter,” said Andy. “I saw the appeal for Amber, and there were so many similarities between Amber and Sarah that I felt I just had to put myself forward. Luckily, I was a very good match.”
Sarah’s battle inspired Andy’s ongoing commitment to raising funds for Theodora Children’s Charity, an organisation that supported Sarah during her many hospital stays.
“Theodora Children’s Charity brought so much joy and laughter to Sarah,” Andy explained. “They’re a small charity that doesn’t get as much support as bigger organisations, but the work they do is invaluable.”
The charity employs 21 “Giggle Doctors” who visit children in hospitals, using music, magic, play, and storytelling to boost mental health and emotional resilience. Each doctor wears a personalised coat reflecting their characters, such as Dr Boogie Woodie or Dr Teapot and provides one-on-one moments of joy for children facing serious illnesses.
Andy, now recovering from surgery, has returned to work in an office-based role while he heals.
His manager, Amanda White, expressed her admiration for Andy’s selflessness. “To donate a kidney is amazing. I didn’t know Andy when he lost Sarah, but visiting him at home, it’s clear how loved she was. Every photo shows Sarah with the most infectious smile. For Andy to change the life of another little girl after such a painful loss is incredible. As a team, we’re really proud of him.”
Amber and Andy are both on the road to recovery, and Andy continues to encourage donations to Theodora Children’s Charity.
To support their work, visit Theodora Children’s Charity donation page.
