Staff emotions run high, too
The first thing Angela Hughes noticed when she woke was the strong, rhythmic thump. It was an unfamiliar feeling. She placed her hand gently on her chest and felt her new heart beating.
Given the gift of life, fittingly on Christmas Day, Angela’s operation went perfectly and she was home just three and a half weeks later.
It’s now more than five years since Angela, who lives in Monifieth, Angus, went through the procedure and her health has been transformed since receiving a new heart. “I was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in my early-20s, as was my brother,” Angela explained. “We were told it was a genetic condition but it was very mild in me and the only effect I noticed was occasional breathlessness.
“It was my late-30s before it started to worsen and I had several ablation procedures to burn the rogue pathways, as well as two pacemakers and a defibrillator fitted. It was shocked back into rhythm several times as well. “Eventually, my poor heart had enough.” Angela was admitted to the Golden Jubilee, so ill that specialists weren’t sure at first if she was fit enough to be listed for a transplant. Seventeen days after being placed on the list, a suitable heart became available.
“One thing I was very aware of, and still am, is the strange sensation of knowing that in order to survive, someone else isn’t going to be here. While
Lorraine Jerrett is an advanced heart failure nurse specialist and transplant co-ordinator.
She is part of a team of four full-time co-ordinators, supported by four part-time nurses.
“We get to know patients and their families very well, because we see them frequently and over a number of years,” said Lorraine.
“Much of our job consists of educating and supporting the patients and families, guiding them through the journey.
“We need them to be prepared psychologically for what’s ahead.
“Hearts are quite scarce, so there is a lot we expect from the recipient, too.
“We need to be sure they’re on board with what is expected of them and that they will look after it.
“We do become close to them and we need that trust.
“It’s a privilege to be part of their journey. When we’ve watched them deteriorate over the years and see them get a quality of life back, it’s so rewarding.
“But there’s the flipside, of those who don’t receive a donor in time or don’t get through it all. There are lots of emotions flying around, but the successful ones make it all worthwhile.”