A BLACKWOOD mum has given a vital gift to her teenage daughter, going under the knife to donate a kidney for a transplant.

When Sharon Chaplin, from Blackwood, found out she was a match for her daughter, Ceri, she immediately said she would be her donor.

The 17-year-old was diagnosed with severe kidney problems in April last year after suffering from a series of nose bleeds and flu-like symptoms.

Mrs Chaplin and her husband had become concerned about Ceri years previously, following the appearance of red blotches on her skin.

It was said she could be suffering from Henoch-Schonlein Purpura (HSP), a disease that affects the kidneys, but after tests she was given the all clear.

But when she went back before doctors earlier this year she was transferred to the children’s kidney unit at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales in Cardiff, and began receiving blood dialysis.

She was later allowed home to continue her treatment – taking exams and securing a place on an animal care course at Gwent College’s Usk campus, much to the amazement of her parents, in the process.

Now, following the success of the mum-to-daughter transplant, the family is set to take on a different challenge, backing dad, Christopher, as he prepares for a fundraising run in aid of Kidney Wales.

He said: “By donating her kidney my wife has done the most incredible thing for our daughter and so I felt compelled to do something to raise awareness and funds for a cause so close to our hearts.”

He also spoke of the family’s pride at Ceri’s resilience.

“Even with how quickly the situation progressed, she took everything in her stride.”

The teenager’s blood continues to be monitored at the University Hospital of Wales, and it was there Mr Chaplin saw a flyer for Kidney Wales’ Cardiff 10K, which takes place in September.

“I knew it was something I had to do,” he added.

Roy Thomas, the chief executive of Kidney Wales, said: “It’s so encouraging to see families like the Chaplins supporting each other through such a traumatic and challenging time.

“We are proud that Chris has decided to run this year’s 10K on behalf of Kidney Wales and raise vital funds and awareness for renal patients across the country.”

Registration for the 2017 Cardiff 10K is now open.

For more information visit cardiff10K.cymru