The patients on the ward become an extended family, supporting one another through the wait. Staff members keep them busy with activities and crafts, and encourage them to learn new hobbies or pursue new avenues of education. Despite the supportive environment, the wait for a heart can be emotionally draining. It s not a first come, first served system. Donor hearts need to be the right size and blood type for the recipient.
Some patients never leave the ward alive - dying before a matching heart can be found.
For a few lucky ones, a donor heart eventually becomes available, giving them a second chance at life. The information on this factsheet is not meant to substitute for a consultation with your physician or with another healthcare professional. Speak with your doctor if you have questions about Heart Ward Survivors, or any medical problem.