Children’s birthdays are always special – but for the parents of Gabrysia Filarowski every celebration is a milestone they feared they would never see.

Now six years old, she owes her life to the donor family and hospital staff who made a heart transplant possible. And as her parents celebrate each passing year they make it clear they will never forget the bravery of the family who gave Gabrysia the gift of life in the midst of their own grief.

The Filarowskis remember the donor family in their prayers every night, and they know they owe them a debt of gratitude.

The selflessness of people who lose their own loved ones but allow their organs to be used is truly remarkable. To be able to think of others at a time of such immense loss is an amazing thing.

Gabrysia’s family are urging people to join the NHS organ donor register to potentially save the lives of desperately ill people.

It’s a issue many of us may not like to think about, but by making that decision now we can help to save lives and make it easier for our families to respect our decisions. As Gabrysia’s mum Angel says, the gift of life is the most amazing gift of all.