This Organ Donation Week, we’re shining a light on some of the dedicated professionals who help transform lives through transplantation. From supporting patients while they wait for a life-saving organ to providing long-term care after transplant, transplant coordinators and specialist nurses play a vital role every day.
Supporting patients as they wait
For the past 10 years, Stephanie Dunn, Transplant Coordinator, has been helping patients and families navigate one of the most challenging periods of their lives.
Stephanie supports both adult and paediatric patients from their very first transplant assessment appointment, remaining a key point of contact throughout their journey until they receive their transplant. She provides medical advice, monitors patients’ progress and helps them manage changes in their health while they wait.
When a potential donor heart or lungs become available, Stephanie is also part of the complex process of coordinating the transplant. She works closely with surgeons, theatres and donor hospitals to ensure everything is in place within the tight timeframes needed to safely use donated organs.
“The role is so unique because no two days are ever the same,” said Stephanie. “One of the best parts of the job is seeing patients go to theatre for their transplant and knowing how much their life is about to change. Not only can a transplant improve quality of life, it can also give people many more years with their loved ones.”
The role is not without its challenges. Sometimes patients receive a call that an organ may be available, only for the transplant not to go ahead for clinical reasons. During these difficult moments, Stephanie provides emotional and psychological support to patients and their families.
Caring for children and families after transplant
Julie Flett, Paediatric Transplant Nurse Specialist, has supported children and families through the transplant journey since 2003.
Julie works with patients from birth through to the age of 18, helping families understand what to expect following transplant and providing ongoing support throughout recovery and long-term follow-up care.
Working alongside transplant coordinators, Julie becomes a key source of advice and reassurance after transplant. She helps families recognise signs of infection or organ rejection, coordinates care with community services such as GPs and health visitors, and works closely with schools to ensure children receive the support they need.
“At the heart of my role has always been the belief that caring for a child means caring for the whole family,” said Julie. “Transplantation can be an extraordinary journey, but it can also be frightening and overwhelming. Sometimes what families need most is simply someone who will listen, explain things again and be there when things feel difficult.”
One of the most rewarding parts of Julie’s role is seeing children grow and thrive following their transplant.
“It is a real privilege to watch children go from being very unwell to becoming confident young people and eventually moving into adult services. A transplant is often a second chance at life, and being able to support families through that journey is incredibly special.”
