Nine year-old bone marrow donor nominated for Pride of Australia awards

SHE might be just nine but when Ava Bartlett was given the chance to offer her brother Jack, 11, potentially lifesaving bone marrow, she did not hesitate. She’s the latest Pride of Australia nominee

• Touching moment girls bone marrow is handed to her sick brother
• Girl to give brother lifesaving transplant

SHE might be just nine but when Ava Bartlett was given the chance to offer her brother Jack potentially lifesaving bone marrow, she did not hesitate.

Balgowlah North Public School pupil Jack, 11, of Seaforth, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in May.

Chemotherapy he had at Randwick Children’s Hospital did not destroy all the cancer cells.

Ava Bartlett, nine, with brother Jack, 11, who she gave her bone marrow. Picture: Adam Yip

Doctors tested Ava and sister Addison, 6, for matches and both were suitable.

They chose the older sibling for the transplant.

It took place last month and Ava was soon back at school. Jack is now recovering in isolation for 100 days.

Mum Kate Bartlett said Ava deserved the recognition of being nominated for a Pride of Australia Medal.

The moment the bone marrow donation was handed over

“She didn’t hesitate to go ahead and all with a big smile on her face, even though she didn’t really understand what was involved,” Mrs Bartlett said. “Jack will be proud of her and think she’s very deserving.”

Nominations are open for the 2017 Pride of Australia Medal.

The awards, in their 13th year, seek to honour our unsung heroes, community leaders and stories of bravery.

Mrs Bartlett said. “Jack will be proud of her and think she’s very deserving.”

Ava Bartlett from the northern beaches in hospital ready for the procedure.

A panel of judges will choose this year’s winners and their deeds will be celebrated at a special event.

The Pride of Australia Medal is presented by NewsLocal, The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Telegraph.

The awards are proudly sponsored by Imagine Cruising, imaginecruising.com.au.

Nominate at prideofaustralia.com.au until November 19.