Meet our transplant heroes

Wise advice: Our biggest lesson was letting go of trying to control the situation and trusting in God and in the team at CHOP to help our son. — Christie, Alexander’s mother

Current update: He stopped all immune suppression medication after about five years! He enjoys soccer and riding his bike.

Wise advice: The road is often long and tough, and some days seem never ending. Don’t give up, look at the little things. If you focus on quality, you can enjoy life to the fullest a lot more. — Jessica, Casey’s mother

Current update: He loves playing football, lacrosse and video games. 

Wise advice: Kids are incredibly resilient. There will be a lot of doctor appointments and more needle sticks than you can count, but seeing a happy and healthy kid makes everything worth it. Enjoy the small moments. Take the help offered by your support system. — Kaitlin, Colin’s mother 

Current update: After some minor bumps in the road, he’s 10 years post-transplant and loving life. 

Wise advice: Think outside the box. We looked everywhere for a donor. We put decals on our cars. We hung flyers. We found our kidney through someone who was not able to donate to EJ directly. — Jen, EJ’s mother

Current update: He has not needed dialysis since April 2024. He had his first banana ever around one year after his transplant!

Wise advice: It’s OK to feel everything! Fear, gratitude, exhaustion, hope — all of it is normal. And don't forget to celebrate the small wins. — Courtney, Isabell’s mother

Current update: She loves picture books and playing outside.

Wise advice: Focus on what you can control: comforting and nurturing your child the way only you can. Don’t be afraid to accept help from those around you. Lastly, know that the transplant families who came before you hold you in their hearts. — Jessica, Isaiah’s mother 

Current update: He’s almost walking and is NG-tube-free! 

Wise advice: Always ask questions no matter how silly you think they are and trust your gut if you think something is wrong. Staying positive and celebrating the small wins helps to keep your spirits up. — Demi, Mabel’s mother 

Current update: She loves dancing and playing with her siblings.

Wise advice: Take it one day at a time and celebrate all the wins when you can. Let your child know as much as their age allows, but we found that the more we shared with Siena, the more confident she was. — Missy, Siena’s mother 

Current update: Getting back to normal teenage life was a major milestone. She enjoys theater, singing and lacrosse. 

Wise advice: Do not compare your journey to anyone else’s. Some have an easy recovery, and some do not. Eventually the hard days will be so far behind that you'll forget all about it. And celebrate every milestone no matter how big or small! — Lindsey, Stephen’s mother 

Current update: He’s doing amazing! He's growing and getting bigger and stronger every day.