A Birmingham hospital involved in a controversial transplant case has requested a second opinion after initially refusing a life-saving operation to a mother-of-four.
Lisa Cushman, a 45-year-old from Walsall, has seen her long-term lung conditions deteriorate severely over the last 18 months. Diagnosed with interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pulmonary hypertension for over a decade, Lisa now depends on oxygen around the clock. Without a double lung transplant, she fears her life could end within the next few years.
Despite being deemed eligible for the transplant by another trust, Lisa was devastated when the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QE) denied her a place on the organ donor waiting list last month. In response, the University Hospitals Birmingham Trust confirmed they have sought additional expert opinions to reassess her case.
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“We understand how distressing this situation is for Ms. Cushman and her family,” a Trust spokesperson said. “Decisions regarding transplantation are complex and made with careful evaluation by a multidisciplinary team to ensure the best outcomes. Although we acknowledge Ms. Cushman’s disappointment, we remain committed to supporting her and have asked specialist colleagues at another transplant centre to review her case. Our priority remains providing the highest standard of care.”
Lisa has undergone treatments and infusions in Sheffield and at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton. Initial prognosis gave her a life expectancy of five to six years, but a strong mental attitude has been crucial in sustaining her over time. She has been off work since June, facing a rapid decline in her condition.
Speaking to BirminghamLive, Lisa shared, “In 18 months, my condition worsened so much that I told the doctors if I don’t get this transplant, I might not live more than a couple of years. The doctors were silent when I said that. The team in Sheffield referred me here and sent all their assessments, showing I qualify due to severe pulmonary hypertension.”
Lisa completed various evaluations including fitness, lung function, catheter, and blood tests, all confirming her eligibility for the transplant. She emphasized the thoroughness of the medical assessments and the trust placed in referrals for determining transplant suitability.
The case highlights the complexities of organ transplant decisions and the emotional toll on patients awaiting life-saving procedures.