Transplant Games Patient Stories: Dave

Transplant Games 2024: Beyond Competition, A Celebration of Community

Dave M. participated in multiple events at the Transplant Games, but for him the Games were about more than the competition. “We are a community,” he said, reflecting on the friendships and support formed through shared experiences. The Games allowed Dave to engage with old friends and welcome new ones, reminding him that no one is alone in their transplant journey. “You’re instantly family,” he emphasized, highlighting the bond that forms among those who walk similar paths.

Dave’s heart transplant journey began in 2019 when he fell ill. As his condition worsened, he was fitted with an LVAD, a specialized heart pump, while waiting for a new heart. “Learning that I needed a transplant was shocking,” he reflected. On August 25, 2020, Dave received the life-changing call: a donor heart was available. The doctors’ excitement assured him it was an excellent match, helping to ease his nerves before the surgery.

Dave emphasized how CareDx has helped him manage his health post-transplant. “Having blood work done once a month [with AlloMap and AlloSure] is amazing. It beats going in for biopsies, which can be tough on your body.” Looking ahead, he is excited to celebrate his four-year transplant anniversary and considering a trip to Disney World if he wins a gold medal at the Games. However, he mainly wants to enjoy life and expressed gratitude for his support team. “I’m just happy to be here and have a good time, I feel like I’ve been granted a new lease on life.”

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