Author
Alpha1 Germany eV and Hannover Medical School (MHH), Tx Management / Transplant Center, deinegeschichte@mh-hannover.de, as published in Alpha1 Journal 2/2022.
Childhood liver transplantation – presentation of the book „Encouraging Stories of Transplant Recipients“
„I am delighted that 30 touching stories of encouragement emerged from this participatory campaign and have now been compiled into a truly beautiful book, which is being presented today,“ said Elke Büdenbender, patron of the campaign, judge at the Berlin Administrative Court, and wife of Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, in a video message on September 3, 2022, at the patient day „Managing Everyday Life After Transplantation,“ held as part of the two-day symposium „Organ Transplantation in Childhood and Adolescence.“ „The importance of such stories cannot be overstated, especially for those affected and their families. Courage, hope, and confidence are crucial for successfully undergoing such an operation and for recovery afterward.“ Since 1970, approximately 2,000 children and adolescents have received a donor organ (kidney, liver, heart, lung) at Hannover Medical School (MHH). To mark the 50th anniversary of transplantation in children and adolescents at Hannover Medical School (MHH), the Transplant Center launched the participatory campaign "Give Courage: Tell Your Story!" in 2021. The submitted stories have now been published in the book "Inspiring Stories from Transplant Recipients." The book was presented at the Patient Day event, and the participants in the campaign were recognized.
The patient day offered transplant recipients and their families a comprehensive overview of topics such as rehabilitation medicine, psychosocial support, and the transition to adulthood with a transplanted organ, as well as the associated challenges. Living with a new organ as a child or adolescent presents unique challenges for the child, parents, and attending physicians. Discussions and presentations included the experiences of those affected, services offered by support groups and rehabilitation facilities, and tips on exercise and nutrition.
