A child's first birthday is a special occasion for every parent but for Gina and David Scanlan it's one they feared they may never see.

They knew before their daughter Willow was born that she would have a hole in her heart, but after she arrived they were dealt a double blow with the news their little girl had the life-limiting Edwards Syndrome.

Doctors told the Scanlans that the genetic condition meant they would be unable to operate on Willow, as it "wasn't usual practice".

They immediately launched a campaign for Willow to have the surgery, urging doctors to reconsider their decision.

In March this year, Willow's condition deteriorated and she was taken into intensive care in Glasgow's Royal Children's Hospital.

The Scanlans then received the news they had hoped for: Doctors would carry out the surgery on compassionate grounds.

Willow had the surgery in June and arrived back at her home in Aberdeenshire last week - just in time for her first birthday.

Gina, 43, said: "Willow is our everything. It's so wonderful to have her home. She brings us so much joy."

David added: "She's taught us so much about love and life, and what's really important."