A YOUNGSTER born with a rare condition yesterday celebrated her third birthday with a special present.

Sophie Perren was born with the rare immune disorder, cyclical neutropenia, which means her white blood cell count can drop suddenly.

Approximately once a month she collapses and has to be resuscitated by her mother, Nancy. A splinter or scratch could be lethal because Sophie's body is so susceptible to infection.

Unlike other children her age she is unable to go to nursery, play outside or go shopping with her family.

Even her toys have to be disinfected before she can play with them.

Now, thanks to the Tees Valley Housing Group, Sophie is able to enjoy fresh air every day in a garden they have created for her.

Ms Perren said: "This disease is a cruel one as Sophie yearns to be out with the other children.

"But this garden is her own little world where she can play. She has no life as she is with me 24 hours a day, seven days a week. I can't leave her, and it is a case of keeping her in a bubble.

"When she is out in her garden though she is like a butterfly and it is so nice to see."

The Perrens moved to Norton Grange, Stockton to be nearer to the University Hospital of North Tees, and with Tees Valley Housing's help they have been able to create the adapted garden.

The garden is a safe, secluded environment, which can be easily sterilised.

Sophie has two older brothers and an older sister who helped her celebrate her birthday yesterday, something the family were unsure whether they would see.

Ms Perren said: "We don't know Sophie's lifespan and have to take each day as it comes.

"We can never give up hope and love pulls all of us through it."