A GARNDOLBENMAEN woman is to be rewarded for her extraordinary deed of donating her kidney to save her sister’s life.

Llio Dudley’s life was transformed earlier this year when her younger sister Ffion selflessly donated a kidney to her.

Ffion, 20, underwent keyhole surgery in March to donate a healthy kidney to her 21-year-old sister, who was diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis in 2012.

FSGS is a form of kidney disease which meant Llio had to have the transplant sooner than specialists thought.

Describing the experience the sisters went through together, Llio said: “It was quite nerve wracking to know she had gone for it as I didn’t even get chance to say goodbye to her.

“My op took four hours, which wasn’t too bad, and when I came out I realised me and Ffion were in a room next to each other which was a relief.

“It was such an emotional time for us both. We were both in hospital for two weeks following the operation and we have both been having check-ups since the transplant to make sure everything is running well.

“What my sister has done for me is just incredible. She keeps telling me to stop thanking her but I just can’t stop! I will be forever grateful to her.”

The sisters are set to appear in the heart-warming Christmas Eve programme Diolch o Galon: Anrhegion yr Wyl, in which Rhys Meirion and Heledd Cynfal reward ordinary people for their extraordinary deeds.

Well-known classical singer and presenter Rhys Meirion, originally from Tremadog, said: “The show features people who have been through very difficult circumstances or who have gone out of their way to help others.

“Obviously, Christmas is the best time to give presents, and some of these gifts are unique experiences; things that money can’t buy.

“Some of these people even get to meet their heroes. The show is an emotional rollercoaster.

“There will be tears as well as laughter. A warm festive feeling permeates the programme.”

The sisters are set to tell their story to Rhys and Heledd but they will also have an extra surprise in stole as the show’s host enlist the help of a few celebrity friends.

Also appearing on the show from north Wales will be Faye Jones, from Valley on Anglesey, who despite suffering from Macular degeneration, is still working to help visually impaired people across north Wales; Haf Jones from Llanrug, who has raised more than £45,000 for good causes over the last two decades and Irfon Williams from Bangor, who has overcome bowel and liver cancer and has worked tirelessly to raise funds for special facilities at Ysbyty Gwynedd.

Rhys added: “It’s nice to reward people; some are volunteers, others are so modest, they don’t want any fuss.

“It’s quite a surprise for them.

“These people have come through some very sad situations, but have turned misfortune into something that can give other people hope.

“They have inspired all those around them.”

The programme will be aired on Christmas Eve, Thursday, 24 December on S4C at 8.25pm.