Emily Ghent1, Taylor Robertson2, Katarina Young2, Maria DeAngelis1, Annie Fecteau1, David Grant1,3, Vicky Ng1, Samantha J Anthony1,2,4. 1. Transplant and Regenerative Medicine Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada. 2. Child Health Evaluative Sciences, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada. 3. Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. 4. Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Anonymous living donor transplantation is a potential strategy to address the shortage of available organs for transplant. A living anonymous donor (LAD) is a donor with no biological connection and whose identity is unknown to the recipient. This study captured the lived experiences of pediatric liver transplant recipient families whose child received an organ from a LAD. METHODS: Qualitative data collection and analysis were guided by a theoretical framework of phenomenology. Data analysis highlighted themes through an inductive process of reviewing transcript paragraphs to code for significant statements that represented key concepts and captured depth of experience. RESULTS: A total of nine interviews were conducted with 10 participants. Data analysis yielded themes of emotional turbulence through their transplant journey. Pre-transplant experiences were characterized by feelings of helplessness and desperation. Receiving a LAD transplant prompted shock, relief, and acceptance of the donation. Post-transplant experiences were characterized by altered life-perspectives and varied levels of connectedness to the donor, marked by gratitude and concern for donor well-being. CONCLUSION: Anonymous donation in liver transplantation is perceived by recipient families as a remarkable gift and a viable donor option. Our preliminary findings can be used to inform strategy development regarding future delivery of care.
BACKGROUND: Anonymous living donor transplantation is a potential strategy to address the shortage of available organs for transplant. A living anonymous donor (LAD) is a donor with no biological connection and whose identity is unknown to the recipient. This study captured the lived experiences of pediatric liver transplant recipient families whose child received an organ from a LAD. METHODS: Qualitative data collection and analysis were guided by a theoretical framework of phenomenology. Data analysis highlighted themes through an inductive process of reviewing transcript paragraphs to code for significant statements that represented key concepts and captured depth of experience. RESULTS: A total of nine interviews were conducted with 10 participants. Data analysis yielded themes of emotional turbulence through their transplant journey. Pre-transplant experiences were characterized by feelings of helplessness and desperation. Receiving a LAD transplant prompted shock, relief, and acceptance of the donation. Post-transplant experiences were characterized by altered life-perspectives and varied levels of connectedness to the donor, marked by gratitude and concern for donor well-being. CONCLUSION: Anonymous donation in liver transplantation is perceived by recipient families as a remarkable gift and a viable donor option. Our preliminary findings can be used to inform strategy development regarding future delivery of care.
Authors: Sarah Shan; Paola Vargas; Jakob Durden; Tara Seay; Tessa Williams; Emily Lyster; Anita Sites; Patrick Northup; Shawn Pelletier; Jose Oberholzer; Curtis Argo; Nicolas Goldaracena Journal: Transplant Direct Date: 2021-07-16