Cell Donor Victoria’s generosity saves Jack’s life

Jack was diagnosed with Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD), a rare and often fatal genetic illness, when he was just a baby. Thanks to Victoria’s selfless donation in 2008, Jack’s life was transformed.

Victoria, who was working for Sky News in London at the time, had signed up to the bone marrow register after seeing a poster about donations. She became the best match for Jack, and despite concerns about her recent travels, she was able to donate. The process, which caused her only mild discomfort, ultimately saved Jack’s life, though she did not know who her recipient was until years later.

When Jack turned eight and the law changed to allow contact between donors and recipients, Jack’s family reached out to Victoria. They were delighted to meet her, and the bond they formed has remained strong over the years.

Recently, Victoria also met with Professor Andrew Gennery, a paediatric consultant at the Great North Children’s Hospital, where Jack was treated. During this meeting, she learned that 90% of Jack’s bone marrow now comes from her donation. She reflected on how easy the donation process was for her and how life-changing it had been for Jack.

For Jack and his family, Victoria’s "gift of life" has been truly life-altering. Jack’s family had a history of CGD—his uncle tragically passed away from the same illness at the age of seven. But thanks to Victoria’s generosity, Jack was given a second chance. Jack is now thriving, studying animal management at college, and working at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

Victoria’s act of kindness highlights the profound impact of bone marrow donation, changing not just one life, but the future of an entire family. Her story is a powerful reminder of the difference one selfless decision can make, and we are proud to share it as part of the Bubble Foundation’s mission to support families affected by rare genetic diseases like CGD.

Bone marrow transplant donor Victoria Bird and Patient Jack )Image Victoria Bird)

Bone marrow transplant donor Victoria Bird, pictured with Prof. Andrew Gennery at the RVI. (Image: Iain Buist/Newcastle Chronicle)

Jack Lloyd was just a tot when Victoria Bird donated life-saving bone marrow that cured his genetic illness (Image: Bubble Foundation / Lloyd family)