Celebrating 40 Years of Heart Transplantation at the Freeman Hospital
On Friday 9th May, Freeman Hospital marked a remarkable milestone — 40 years of heart transplantation. Hosted by President Dr. Meachery and Dr. MacGowan, the event brought together former and current doctors, nurses, transplant coordinators, clinical staff, and patients to celebrate the past, reflect on progress, and look to the future.
Looking Back: A Legacy of Care
The day opened with powerful retrospectives.
Professor John Dark offered The Surgeon’s Perspective — a historical overview of the transplant journey at Freeman. This was followed by The Transplant Coordinator’s Perspective from Lynne Holt, who shared an equally moving account of the evolution of care and coordination over the decades.
Two patients then bravely shared their personal experiences, reminding everyone in the room why this work matters.
Looking Forward: Innovation and Hope
The afternoon sessions turned to the future. Eight thought-provoking presentations highlighted the cutting-edge research and technological advances shaping the next chapter in transplantation:
DCD Paediatric Transplantation
10-Degree Fridge Organ Storage
Organ Perfusion Research in Newcastle
ACHD (Adult Congenital Heart Disease) Transplants
New Patient Education Platform (developed by Hazel Muse and Kirsty Wallace)
Short-Term Mechanical Circulatory Support in ITU
Long-Term Mechanical Support Innovations
Advances in Cardiac Imaging
These developments reflect Freeman Hospital’s continued leadership in pushing boundaries — improving outcomes, expanding access, and offering new hope to those awaiting the gift of life.
A Clear Message: It Takes a Team
What truly stood out throughout the day was a shared understanding: transplant success is never the work of one person. From surgeons and ITU staff to clinic teams and coordinators, every individual plays a vital role in the transplant journey. It’s a deeply collaborative effort — one that’s made Freeman so exceptional.
With Gratitude to Our Donors
Above all, the day honoured the true heroes — our donors. Their generosity makes everything possible, and their legacy lives on in every heartbeat of those they’ve helped.
Louise Mclellan
