ONE year on from the death of her daughter, the mother of Emily Clark believe her legacy lives on following the matching of 12 people to bone marrow donors.

The Llantarnam teenager passed away on Saturday, March 12, 2016 following complications due to breathing difficulties, aged just 18.

She had managed to beat Burkitt’s lymphoma – a rare form of blood cancer – on two occasions and had become renowned for her inspirational Remission Possible blogs.

“It’s been a very difficult time for us and the three siblings,” said Donna Dunn, adding that nothing can prepare a parent for the death of their child.

“We remain heartbroken by Emily’s death. We remain shocked by how quickly it happened despite her continued poor health. There was always a treatment plan in place.”

Ms Dunn added that fundraising ventures are still ongoing to help achieve her daughter’s dream of creating Wales’ first and only transplant unit for bone marrow.

The family, including Miss Clark’s stepfather Andrew and three siblings, are proud that more people have found matches as a result of the teenager.

“The pride is knowing that 12 people have found a bone marrow match and that exceeds our expectations,” she said.

“To continue this we will looking at hosting spit and swab evenings. To support this one of Emily’s friends is helping to set up a marrow group in Aberystwyth University.

“She left us knowing we could all make a difference,” said Ms Dunn.

Miss Clark’s mother added that in the past year, many people from across the region and further afield have joined in fundraising ventures.

“During the last year, we have continued to the best of our ability what she started but she had big boots to fill,” she said.

“Our fundraising has seen over 100 people complete the Cardiff Half Marathon under the banner of #runningforemily.

“Teachers and pupils from Croesyceiliog School also ran the Newport half and many other schools have held non-uniform days, while Bron Afon hosted a quiz.

“Cwmbran-based firm We fight any claim held a dress down month and the Belle Vue Nursery in Cwmbran held a month of events.

“We attended a gin tasting session at Newport’s Mojo and of course legacy ball,” said Ms Dunn.

On the anniversary of her daughter’s death, Ms Dunn added that she and her family are still in touch with those who have helped them.

“I’m still in contact with families from Teenage Cancer Trust which is nice,” she said.

Plus the children have had amazing counselling thanks to the kids cancer charity. We wouldn't have got this far without them.”

Miss Clark’s mother confirmed that plans are in place to help the fund created in memory of her daughter’s dream to become reality.

“We have more fundraisers planned to fund the building if the work,” said Ms Dunn.

“We are looking for a mixologist, bakers and an illustrator and of course event planners.

“So if any young people are looking for some experience we would like to hear from them.”

To donate to the fund, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/remissionpossible.