THE mother of an organ donor has spoken of her pride after her daughter was posthumously honoured for her gift of life to another.

Katrina Duckett died suddenly, aged 34, in January after suffering from quinsy, a complication of tonsillitis.

Her mum Margaret Duckett, from Bluehouse Avenue, Clacton, picked up the award at a ceremony at The Priory Church of the Order of St John, in St John's Square, London.

The new award, created by the Order of St John alongside NHS Blood and Transplant, has been presented to the families and loved ones of those who saved and improved people’s lives through organ donation.

Katrina, who was a semi professional singer from Sidcup, was one of the first people to be conferred the award.

“Katrina was a wonderful mum and idolised her son Louis, who was seven when she died,” said Mrs Duckett.

“Luckily she home-schooled him for the last year of life, so he has very good memories of her.
“She died suddenly in front of Louis. She all of a sudden couldn’t breathe and collapsed in front of him. It was very traumatic for him.

“But she was an organ donor and has helped to save six lives – including two children.

“She was a kind and giving person and was a lovely daughter.

"This has been very hard for us, but the fact she has helped others to live is a comfort for me and for Louis."

To join the NHS Organ Donor Register visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk or call 0300 123 2323 or text SAVE to 62323.