Round table discussion - Challenges into Action: How did I take on the challenges of transplantation

This round table discussion included individuals with lived experiences, as well as their parents and caregivers. Hear more about their experiences and how to better support pediatric transplant patients and their caregivers and/or families. The panelists were Grecia Galinda, Tanis Mitchell, Lindsey Kemp, and Sean Delaney.

Grecia Galinda is a 5-year post-transplant patient who received a kidney transplant in 2019, with her father as the donor. This experience has inspired her to advocate for young transplant patients, particularly those without adequate support. Currently studying fashion design, she also dedicates her time to supporting children and families facing health challenges, emphasizing community and shared experiences. Her mission is to help ease the transplant process and transition to adult healthcare, using her story to provide guidance and reassurance.

Tanis Mitchell is a medical mom and advocate, inspired by her daughter Lukah’s multi-organ transplant. She empowers families navigating pre- and post-transplant care by sharing her story of resilience and healing. Tanis emphasizes building strong support systems and fostering collaboration between families and healthcare providers to improve patient and caregiver experiences.

Lindsey Kemp is a teacher and music community leader in Edmonton, Alberta. She founded Big Gifts for Little Lives, a charity supporting pediatric heart transplant research, after her son George underwent two heart transplants. Lindsey is passionate about advocating for pediatric transplant care and raising funds to advance research and improve outcomes for children.

Sean Delaney is Director of Operations at the Alberta Transplant Institute. He has over 20 years of experience in health policy and organ transplantation, having worked with Canadian Blood Services. He is also a lifelong kidney patient and 2-time kidney transplant recipient, receiving his most recent transplant from a generous living donor in October 2020.