St. Louis Children’s Hospital Liver Transplantation Program Marks 20 Years of Hope and Healing
In the shadows of the 2005 Great Forest Park Balloon Race, dozens of young liver transplant recipients, donors and their families celebrated a special milestone with St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
More than 150 people gathered to “Celebrate Life” and reconnect with others who share their similar experiences. Members of the hospital’s medical team including doctors, nurses and transplant staff also joined the fun, featuring refreshments, snacks and a special appearance by the Clown Docs. Twelve-year-old transplant patient Lauren Dever and her mother Stephanie were selected to represent the group by flying as a passenger in the St. Louis Children’s Hospital race balloon.
Those who attended the liver transplantation anniversary party at the balloon race enjoyed a front-row seat to view the spectacular launch. “What better symbolizes the inspiration that these children and their families provide than dozens of beautiful balloons rising into the St. Louis skyline?” says Dr. Jeffrey Lowell, surgical director of the pediatric liver transplantation program at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. “Through them, we’re all reminded to celebrate life – even though it may sometimes be a bumpy ride.”
Twenty years ago, St. Louis Children’s Hospital marked the launch of its pediatric liver transplantation program. Since September 1985, more than 125 children ranging in age from three months to 18 years have received liver transplants at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
Today the liver transplant program is among the most successful in the United States, offering children who come to St. Louis Children’s Hospital for liver transplants more options than ever before. The experienced team is led by pediatric gastroenterologists focusing on all aspects of liver disease, and transplant surgeons skilled in a broad spectrum of pioneering techniques. With their help, children and their families can face the prospect of liver transplant with a sense of optimism.
“These kids and their families have such tremendous courage and strength of spirit,” says Dr. Lowell. “Add this to the many medical options that are now available to children and we’ve made tremendous strides in giving them new hope and better quality of life. There is truly reason to celebrate.”
Over the years, surgical innovations such as reduced-size, split-liver (splitting one liver between 2 recipients), and living donor transplants have continued to keep St. Louis Children’s Hospital at the forefront of pediatric liver transplantation. According to Dr. Ross Shepherd, medical director of pediatric liver transplant, the program represents a long tradition of delivering the highest quality of care as a team. “We offer superb surgery and excellent care before, during and after transplant,” says Dr. Shepherd. “Our transplant team of surgeons, physicians, nurse coordinators, social workers, child life specialists, and psychologists has developed a very effective way of working together. That’s why our patients do well.”