A BOLTON mother who underwent a life-saving double lung transplant has celebrated a birthday that she never thought she would see.

Natalie Kerr turned 33 this week and enjoyed her special day with her family, including children Brandon and Isabelle.

For many people, 33 could be seen as a fairly unremarkable age, but Natalie said that every birthday reached following her operation is a fantastic achievement worth celebrating.

She underwent the transplant in February 2012 after suffering with pulmonary hypertension.

Natalie, who lives in Adlington but is originally from Breightmet, said she was thankful to be alive and paid tribute to the person who donated the organs.

She said: “I am just so thankful to be here and to be able to see another birthday with my children and my family.

“I owe this all to my donor, she is the reason I’m here and I think about her all the time.”

In August Natalie took part in the British Transplant Games which saw transplant athletes compete in four days of sport and activities at venues across Bolton.

The main aim of the games, along with celebrating those who have undergone successful transplants, was to encourage as many people as possible to sign the NHS organ donor register.

Natalie added that it was vital as many people signed up to the register.

She said: “My illness taught me both how cruel and how precious life can be.

"I think it was so brave what that family did for me — it saved my life — which is why I am passionate about encouraging other people to sign up to the register.

“You just need to discuss your wishes with your family and then you never have to worry about it again. I can’t stress enough how important it is for people to sign that register.”

To Sign Up to Save Lives, please go to the NHS organ donor register at organdonation.nhs.uk, call 0300 1232323 or text SAVE to 62323.