WORLD-LEADING experts in France will be consulted over whether a Bolton girl must face the heartbreak of another life-saving bone marrow transplant. British specialists have given Charlotte Russell, suffering from genetic disorder Fanconi anaemia, the good news that they believe her initial transplant, performed for the first time at Royal Manchester Children's Hospital in Pendlebury, has been a success. But first, because of the rarity of the condition, they must double-check with the world's best in Paris that their diagnosis is correct.

Fears that Charlotte, 13, who has already spent two months recovering from her operation, may have to undergo another transplant were raised when tests revealed half her unhealthy bone marrow still remained.

Consultants reckon the operation has still been a success because they believe the girl's healthy marrow - transfused from younger brother Nicholas - will gradually grow during the next 12 months, destroying old marrow. That means she can look forward to continuing her recovery at home in Sharples Avenue, Sharples.

But first doctors plan the French connection by contacting a team in Paris leading the way in the treatment of Fanconi anaemia, which affects a handful of children in the world.

Charlotte's dad, Chris, said the British diagnosis had been a huge step forward.

"She was dreading having to go through the transplant all over again," he said. "Her consultant is contacting France because he wants to leave nothing to chance."

Doctors also reckon the extra 12 months needed for Charlotte's body to rid itself of the unhealthy marrow will leave her more susceptible to leukaemia.

But dad Chris said chances of infection were still slim and Charlotte still had the reassurance of regular checks and top class care.

"Charlotte's feeling well but the recovery process is a long one," he said.

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