In July, the Multi-Organ Transplant team at BC Children's Hospital (BCCH) held an inaugural graduation event for eleven patients who received kidney transplants and ongoing care at BCCH, who are now transitioning into the adult care system. Many of these patients received care at BCCH since infancy, and built strong relationships with their team of providers.
Transplantation remains the best treatment option for children who develop kidney failure. Each year, BCCH providers perform between ten to 15 kidney transplants for children and youth from across B.C. and the Yukon. Once a child receives a solid organ transplant, they receive ongoing quality care from BCCH's Multi-Organ Transplant Clinic. This multidisciplinary clinic offers pediatric care to support children's health and wellbeing, and connects patients and families with research studies to improve transplant care.
Speaking about the graduation and its impact, Dr. Mina Matsuda-Abedini, a pediatric nephrologist at BCCH said,
"Seeing young adults, some of whom I have known since childhood, flourishing, is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. I was so glad to reconnect with them, to hear their personal stories, and to celebrate the life-changing impact of kidney transplant and follow-up care for both children and their families."
Adolescence and young adulthood is a time of important life changes such as graduation from high school, starting post-secondary education, or entering the work force. Managing these milestones can be challenging, even more so for those with a complex health condition such as a solid organ transplant. Studies have shown that between the ages of 17 to 24 years is a "high-risk" period for kidney transplant recipients. Given that patients' care is also transferred from pediatric to adult specialists during this period, the BCCH Multi-Organ Transplant team built a transition program to enhance support for patients and their families to improve their health outcomes and long-term wellbeing.
Based on the success of this event, including feedback from patients and families, BCCH aims to host future graduation ceremonies to mark the achievements of the incredible patients and families on their organ transplant journey. BC Children's Hospital appreciates the support of generous partners, including The Kidney Foundation of Canada and BC Transplant, who co-funded the event for patients and families.
