When the missile of hope found its target, 25-year-old Ivan Prystanskyi from Lviv Region realised that his dream would come true. A young man who was completely healthy just two years ago suddenly faced dilated cardiomyopathy — a disease that turned his life into a battle for every breath.
Due to his critical condition, his only chance for survival was a heart transplant, performed by cardiac surgeons at the Transplant Centre of the First Medical Association of Lviv. Despite all the difficulties, the support of his family gave him the strength to fight.
On the operating table, Ivan left behind fear and disbelief, and hope took their place. Almost a year of searching for a donor ended successfully when on 31 March, doctors announced: “there is a donor heart.” After the operation, the joy of being able to breathe freely filled his life with new meaning.
The postoperative period went smoothly without complications. Fourteen days later, Ivan returned to his family and young son. Thanks to the courageous step of the donor’s family, who gave a piece of life, the lives of three more people were saved.
The Transplant Centre in Lviv has been a leader in the number of transplants in Ukraine for the past five years, offering residents new chances for a full life.
Source: Lviv City Council