Mumbai’s first pediatric heart transplant recipient recounts her journey

The teenager was diagnosed with Dilated Cardiomyopathy in 2015, received a heart from a 20yr old donor from Indore in Jan 2016.

By: Editorial Team | | Updated: March 20, 2018 1:47 pm

In 2015, Vikhroli resident Anthony D Souza and his wife were in for a shock when they learnt that their daughter Sweden, aged 17 at the time, was diagnosed with end-stage heart disease. Doctors at Fortis Hospital, Mulund had informed the dismayed parents that her only chance at survival was to undergo a heart transplant. It was on January 2, 2016, that the family s wait ended as the kin of a 20yr old donor from Indore consented for Organ Donation. Also Read - Heart Transplant: Expert explains everything you need to know about the procedure

Also Read - Scientists dispel myths associated with heart failure

The donor heart was transported to Mumbai and transplanted into Sweden; the surgery was performed by Dr Anvay Mulay, Head of Cardiac Transplant Team, Fortis Hospital, Mulund. Young Sweden, Mumbai s 1st Paediatric Heart recipient, was discharged after 2.5weeks of hospitalization. Keeping in mind infection prevention guidelines that were explained by the doctors, Sweden s family made arrangements to make a separate room for her in their house. A 10X6 feet air-conditioned room was created to ensure infections were kept at bay. Sweden was put on immunosuppressant s, which is a lifelong medication; her parents chalked-out a timetable for medication administration and followed-up regularly with the transplant team. For the first three months Sweden wasn t to venture out of her room; however, she did wish to go back to college. Here is everything you need to know about heart transplants in children. Also Read - Researchers take a huge stride in growing made-to-order human kidneys

Her parents met the doctors and the college principal to make the necessary arrangements. She was advised to wear a mask at all times, follow her medication without fail and to follow a recommended diet. The college principal supported her decision to resume studies and made necessary arrangements for her. Sweden travelled to college in a rickshaw, avoiding direct exposure to pollution. Last year, she successfully passed her HSC exams securing a first class!

Speaking about their journey, her father Anthony D Souza said, Till this very day, we are eternally grateful to the donor family who has given life to our child. A day doesn t go by that they are not in our prayers. We join the other organ recipients, who are working towards spreading awareness about organ donation .

Sweden, now aged 18, speaking about how her life has changed said, If it wasn t for my parents, I wouldn t be here today. I owe everything to them and I am certainly going to make it up to them by working hard. For the doctors at Fortis Hospital who have treated me with such compassion, I am forever grateful .

Dr Anvay Mulay, Head of Cardiac Transplant Team, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, said, Sweden s has been a remarkable journey; as she lives a normal life today, she hopes to give a better life to her parents. Our 1st paediatric heart recipient continues to engage with the community, along with her parents, to promote the cause of Organ Donation; what a beautiful way to set examples for generations to follow!

Published : March 20, 2018 1:45 pm | Updated:March 20, 2018 1:47 pm

Read Disclaimer