King’s College Hospital raises awareness on the importance of organ donation
BY JAMES TWOMEY
james@slpmedia.co.uk
A hospital which had the highest number of liver donations in the UK last year is raising awareness of the importance of organ donation.
King’s College Hospital in Denmark Hill had 235 patients who chose to donate their liver, and in some cases other organs, after their death to help others.
The hospital said the donors’ actions saved the lives of hundreds of patients requiring a transplant, both at King’s College Hospital and at other hospitals across the country.
One family from Croydon made the decision to donate organs from their six-year-old daughter, Faustina Miradi-Lutmba, who died from a lung condition in 2018.
Her father, Faustino, said: “Faustina was waiting for organs herself for a long time and we went through all the difficult moments of a family waiting for organ transplantation.
“So when I was asked if Faustina’s organs could be transplanted to other children who required them, I agreed.
“It was a difficult decision but we understood what other families may be going through.”
Faustino added: “There is still a big gap and a huge sadness in our lives as we miss Faustina dearly.
“Our other children are growing up and asking about her, which is difficult. However, life goes on but with memories of her dearly in our hearts.
“It’s comforting to know that she has helped other children in need.
We did not want to know who was getting the organs but it is amazing to know that part of her lives on and has helped sick children live a better life.”
King’s College Hospital also carried out the second highest number of liver transplants in the UK in 2018-19.
In total, 209 transplants took place, with 204 from deceased donors and five from living donors.
Hector Vilca-Melendez, Consultant Liver Transplant Surgeon, said: “Thanks to the altruism and generosity of our patients and their families, others have been given the greatest gift possible.
“When you see the transformative effect a transplant can have on a patient with very limited options, you really appreciate the enormity of that gift.”
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