Elodie is the latest member of Harvey’s Gang

A schoolgirl who has survived a liver transplant, sepsis and bowel perforation was given a behind-the-scenes tour of a hospital to help her understand more about her treatment.

Seven-year-old Elodie Bannister visited the pathology department at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital with her mum Naomi, as part of the Harvey’s Gang initiative, set up in memory of a young boy with leukaemia who wanted to know more about what happened to his blood samples.

Elodie, from Canterbury, was given a tour of the department, including the chance to see red and white blood cells through a microscope.

Naomi said: “Elodie and I were blown away by our visit to pathology, and the time and kindness offered her was extraordinary.

“Adding chemicals to blood samples, learning about the machines, walking into a giant fridge and viewing red and white blood cells through a microscope were definite highlights.”

Elodie had biliary atresia as a baby, a condition where the bile ducts inside and outside the liver are scarred and blocked. Bile can’t flow into the intestine, so builds up in the liver and damages it.

She has had four major operations, and is facing more in the future, and needs blood tests every three months.

Naomi said: “Elodie has experienced significant trauma around blood tests in the past. She has had play therapy to help, but still gets very nervous.

“She was really excited to see the lab, and curious to know where all her blood goes, and why, and we both learnt so much about what happens to her blood after the sample is taken.”

Transfusion practitioner Lisa March, who arranged the visit, said: “It was a pleasure having Elodie in the department.

“There were lots of smiles and laughter whilst Elodie was shown around and she asked lots of questions.

“Elodie certainly spread sunshine across the department! It’s fabulous to welcome another member of Harvey’s Gang. Thank you to all the laboratory staff for taking time out of their busy day and supporting this visit.”

Elodie was given her own lab coat to take home, as well as a goody bag and certificate.