Scots girl, 5, excited to spend Christmas at home after 29 life saving surgeries

Young Scottish girl, Amber McRae, aged five, is filled with excitement as she prepares to spend Christmas at home with her family this year. This joyous occasion will be a stark contrast to last year when she was in hospital for six weeks undergoing 29 life-saving surgeries. Little Amber, who hails from East Kilbride, has a rare form of spina bifida and hydrocephalus, conditions that threatened her life and required risky procedures to alleviate the pressure in her head.

Amber’s mother, Leanne Belch, shared the family’s ordeal, expressing the fear and uncertainty they faced during the challenging period. The skull expansion surgery that Amber underwent was deemed as her last chance, with no guarantees of success. The family, including Amber’s father, Paul, and big sister, Laila, stood by her side throughout the difficult journey, unsure of what the outcome would be.

Describing the aftermath of the surgery, Leanne recounted the heart-wrenching sight of seeing Amber in recovery, tubes attached, hair shaved off, and her head bearing a large incision. The recovery process was agonising for Amber, causing immense pain and distress as she adjusted to the changes in her body post-surgery.

Despite the hardships faced last Christmas, the family is grateful to celebrate this year together at home. Reflecting on the past struggles, Leanne acknowledges the emotional significance of being reunited with Amber for the festive season. As they look forward to happier times, they are also supporting SBH Scotland’s Christmas Appeal to help other families coping with similar challenges.

Lawrence Cowan, CEO of SBH Scotland, emphasised the importance of donations in providing essential support services for individuals living with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. The organisation aims to raise £1.4 million annually to sustain these critical services, ensuring that families like Amber’s receive the necessary assistance during difficult times.

As Amber embraces the festive season in the comfort of her home, her story serves as a testament to resilience and the unwavering support of loved ones in overcoming immense obstacles. This Christmas, Amber and her family cherish the gift of togetherness and hope for brighter days ahead.

Insights and Summary:
Amber McRae’s journey exemplifies courage and strength in the face of adversity. Her story highlights the importance of family support, resilience, and the impact of community initiatives like SBH Scotland’s Christmas Appeal in providing assistance to those in need. The celebration of Christmas at home symbolises a beacon of hope and joy after enduring challenging circumstances, emphasising the spirit of resilience and unity during the festive season.