A Teesside mum has shared the courageous journey of her five-year-old daughter receiving a heart transplant after more than a year on the waiting list.
Born on 24 July 2019 at The James Cook University Hospital, Evie Green was diagnosed with myocarditis when she was just four months old – a condition triggered by simple viral infections that in serious cases can lead to heart failure.
This led to frequent visits to the children and young people’s emergency department at James Cook for the young toddler, which was an anxious period for parents Chloe Green and David Green.
Chloe, 29, said: “Evie was attached to a machine, so she was unable to move around without us following her. She was on strong blood thinners so we made her very cautious about everything because any knock could cause her to bleed out.
She could not run around at all and was unable to leave the hospital to go home at all. Moreover, Evie was unable to see her brother Theo when he was ill and could only visit on weekends and holidays.”
After countless barriers such as sepsis, infections and several blood clots, Evie finally managed to receive a heart transplant this year.
Since receiving the life-changing transplant Evie’s family has seen a significant impact on her life and are thrilled to witness the positive changes.
It has been a delight to see our daughter running around without a machine attached to her – just like a normal five-year-old. Not just running but watching her going to the beach, visiting her late grandad’s tree and having a bath have been a joy for our little family.
“Before the transplant, she did not eat well as she was on a VAD, but ever since her transplant, seeing our daughter have a hearty full meal has been the greatest pleasure and heartwarming,” added Chloe.
To celebrate Organ Donation Week (23-29 September), Evie’s family is urging people to consider organ donation.
This year marks 30 years of the NHS Organ Donor Register which was set up in 1994. Stories showing the impact of organ donation, like Evie’s, are being shared to inspire people to confirm their donation decision on the register to mark the anniversary and help save more lives.
David added: “I urge people to sign up to the NHS organ register to make their decision known.
“Sharing these stories is all we can do as it will get people talking about the children waiting for an organ transplant. Think of the futures that can be saved from the amazing gift of organ donation.”
Specialist nurse organ donation Rachel Eason said: “It is great to hear that Evie is doing so well since her transplant. For lots of children waiting for a life-saving transplant, their only hope is the parents of another child agreeing to organ donation at a time of immense sadness and personal grief.
“Losing a child is incredibly tragic and difficult. Families of young organ donors tell us that knowing their child’s donation has saved lives can bring some comfort.
We urge parents to think and talk about organ donation for themselves and their family today. Your decision could help save lives.”
Register your decision
Parents are being urged to think about organ donation for themselves and all the family.
Organ Donation Week is the perfect time to register your decision on the NHS register.