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Heart Transplant Patient Reunion Marks 40 Years of Heart Transplants at Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

Celebrating 40 Years of Heart Transplant Excellence at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

On September 17, 2024, the Penn State Heart and Vascular Institute marked a significant milestone: the 40th anniversary of its heart transplant program. The celebration brought together over 590 heart transplant recipients, their families, and the dedicated medical staff who have played a pivotal role in their journeys. Among the attendees was Lois Angelisanti, who embraced Dr. Behzad Soleimani, the surgical director for heart transplant and mechanical circulatory support, during the heartfelt reunion. Dr. Soleimani had performed Angelisanti’s life-saving heart transplant in 2017, a moment that underscored the profound impact of the program on individual lives.

A Legacy of Life-Saving Innovation

The heart transplant program at Milton S. Hershey Medical Center was launched in 1984, with the mission to provide life-saving treatment for patients suffering from end-stage heart failure. Just a year later, the center made history by becoming one of the first hospitals in the United States to successfully implant an artificial heart. This pioneering spirit has continued to define the program, which has since become a beacon of hope for patients across Pennsylvania and beyond.

Dr. Soleimani, who has been at the forefront of this program, reflected on the significance of the anniversary. “We are celebrating 40 extraordinary years of saving lives, 40 years of heartfelt innovation and life-changing milestones,” he stated. His words resonated deeply with the attendees, many of whom have experienced the transformative power of heart transplantation firsthand.

A Community of Survivors

The heart transplant reunion was not just a celebration of medical achievements; it was also a gathering of a unique community. Patients shared their stories, reminiscing about the friendships formed during their hospital stays. The atmosphere was filled with joy and gratitude as attendees reflected on their second chances at life. For many, the reunion was an opportunity to reconnect with those who had walked similar paths, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support.

Among the inspiring stories shared was that of Alessandro Sgro, who had been a congenital heart patient at the Medical Center for 38 years before receiving his new heart less than two years ago. “There have been many doctors, nurses, and staff members that have helped me on my journey. Together, they have saved my life and given me a better future,” Sgro expressed. His newfound ability to engage in activities with his daughter, such as biking and sledding, highlighted the profound impact of the transplant on his quality of life.

Exceptional Outcomes and Ongoing Care

Milton S. Hershey Medical Center stands out as the only hospital in Pennsylvania outside of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia that performs heart transplant surgeries. The program boasts an impressive statistic: more than 94% of patients who receive a heart transplant at the Medical Center survive for at least three years post-surgery. This remarkable survival rate is the best in Pennsylvania and nearly 10% higher than the national average among transplant centers, according to data from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients.

The dedicated team at the Medical Center, including cardiologists, surgeons, nurses, and support staff, continues to provide follow-up care to approximately 200 heart transplant recipients across six states. This ongoing commitment to patient well-being ensures that recipients receive the necessary support and monitoring to thrive after their surgeries.

A Testament to Excellence

As the evening unfolded, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center President Don McKenna addressed the crowd, expressing pride in the Heart and Vascular Institute’s consistent outstanding outcomes. “Year after year, data shows that world-class heart care is right here in Hershey. And all of you here tonight are proof of that,” he affirmed, reinforcing the program’s reputation as a leader in cardiac care.

The reunion not only celebrated the past but also looked forward to the future of heart transplantation at the Medical Center. With a commitment to innovation and patient-centered care, the program is poised to continue its legacy of saving lives and enhancing the quality of life for heart transplant recipients.

Conclusion

The 40th anniversary of the heart transplant program at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center was a poignant reminder of the power of medical innovation, the strength of community, and the resilience of the human spirit. As patients like Lois Angelisanti and Alessandro Sgro shared their stories of hope and renewal, it became clear that the impact of this program extends far beyond the operating room. It is a testament to the dedication of the medical team and the enduring bonds formed among those who have faced the challenges of heart disease together. As they look to the future, the Heart and Vascular Institute remains committed to providing life-saving care and fostering a community of survivors who inspire one another every day.

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