April 2023
Committed to Transplant
Our mission at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian Kidney and Pancreas Transplant Program is to maximize transplantation opportunities for all patients seeking our care and expertise. We are committed to delivering life-enhancing transplant services with compassion for each patient. Our patient's health and safety have and always will be our priority.
Donate Life Month
National Donate Life Month helps raise awareness about donation, encourages Americans to register as organ, eye, and tissue donors, and honors those that have saved lives through the gift of donation.
Meet Transplant Nurse: Sandy Chen
Hello! My name is Sandy, and this April will be my three-year mark as a nurse here on 7 North. I graduated from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing in 2019 and started working here as a new grad. I have always known I wanted to be a nurse, as I love being able to help and connect with people.

What is the most rewarding part of being a transplant nurse? 
Nursing has many rewarding aspects, but if I chose one, it would be seeing our transplant patients get back on their feet right after surgery.

My team does a fantastic job ensuring our patients know what is happening through constant education and reassurance. From the moment the patient comes to our floor till the day they go home, we teach our patients what is expected of them, providing support and encouragement. It amazes me when I see someone out of bed post-op day one, walking as if they did not just have surgery. Some patients may need an extra push, but their determination helps them improve.

Once transplanted, patients no longer have to go to hemodialysis three times a week, lasting 3-5 hours of their day. They can now live a more "normal" life, spending more time with their loved ones and doing things they enjoy. Witnessing our patients' progress throughout their transplant journey, essentially having a new beginning, and the immense happiness they feel makes everything we do worth it.

What is the most challenging part of being a transplant nurse?
When things do not go as planned regarding the transplant process, sometimes patients get admitted in the middle of the night after receiving a call about a potential transplant but are sent back home. It is always hard, but our job as their nurse is to provide reassurance and advocate for them. There are always risks when it comes to surgery, so we make sure that our patients know what to look out for so that if there is ever an issue, we can detect them early and treat the problem. We monitor our patients exceptionally closely, so if there are any sudden changes, we contact our providers and try to find a solution immediately.

What myths about transplants would you like to dispel?
People can still live everyday healthy life with one kidney! Your body can function just as well with one kidney. Living donors are crucial. Receiving a kidney from a living donor has benefits, such as immediate kidney function, a shorter wait time, and longer survival rates. As for the donors, they will get priority if they need a kidney transplant later in life. The surgery is done laparoscopically with three small incisions on the stomach and usually leaves after 1-2 days of hospital stay. There are many reasons why someone would donate, whether to a family member, friend, or a simple act of giving. No matter the reason, the gift of donating a kidney will forever change the lives of the donor, recipient, and their families. We thank our donors for their generosity and act of courage.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
I will still be on 7N for the next five years. Like how my seniors mentored and shaped me into the nurse I am today, I would like to reciprocate that to our new Nurses. I work with the best team, and I only want to continue to provide our patients with the excellent care we are known for. Our unit can be chaotic, but how we work together is outstanding. I want to thank our clerks, environmental services, nurse's aides, nurses, and PCD. Amazing things do happen here on 7N!
Altruistic Kidney Donor: Annie Hoffnung
Although I'm only two weeks post-op, I can already say that donating my kidney has been one of my life's most profound and rewarding experiences.

Why did you decide to donate your kidney?
One year ago, I first embarked upon this unexpected journey when I learned that someone in our local community with my blood type urgently needed a kidney transplant. My husband and I discussed what it would mean for our family and me to become a kidney donors. After researching, I reviewed the initial battery of compatibility tests to determine whether I was a match. As it turns out, I was! But another donor a bit ahead of me was allowed to donate their kidney instead. I then learned what becoming an "altruistic" or non-direct donor meant. The unique opportunity to help save a life resonated with me, and I continued through the eligibility process.

What fears did you have about donating your kidney?
Many! But honestly, I knew I'd be OK. I knew I could do this because I have a high pain tolerance. I'm not scared of doctors or needles or hospitals or getting my blood drawn. I've also had three c-sections. Most importantly, I'm pretty strong emotionally and physically and knew I would power through. I was motivated by the thought that someone else would spend more time with the people they love because of something I could do for them.

How was your experience donating your kidney at NYP/Weill Cornell? 
Fantastic! Everyone was so kind and compassionate and answered every question I had. I was never made to feel like I was an inconvenience. The post-op recovery care – physicians, nurses, social workers, and others, including my fantastic donor coordinator – far exceeded my expectations. 

What would you tell other people who are considering becoming a kidney donor?
Do some research, connect with donors, and get comfortable with your "why" (because people will ask and may tell you you're crazy along the way). Also, know that it's not that scary! Yes, it's surgery, and a big one at that – one of your organs will be removed, for crying out loud! But the human body is fantastic, and its ability to recover is fascinating. A temporary inconvenience in exchange for making a significant impact - I honestly think it's a fair trade. Additionally, donors should consider whether they have an adequate support system, especially for the first few days and weeks following the operation. I found the support of my family, friends, and workplace extraordinarily helpful in providing me the space and time to recover fully.

What was the most challenging part of the donation process? 
The first two weeks were tough. For example, I was told to expect shoulder pain but underestimated what that meant. But, thankfully, each day gets a little easier!

What was the most rewarding part of your donation process?
Three things come to mind: First, we learned that my kidney flew on a commercial airline from New York to Nashville, Tennessee, and its new owner "took" it immediately. How amazing - science and logistics at their best! I cried when I learned that the recipient's creatinine levels decreased immediately (a year ago, I didn't even know what "creatinine" was). Second, the power of community. My recovery would have felt very different without my amazing family and friends surrounding me with much love and care. I have difficulty finding words to express my gratitude toward everyone. Finally, doing good feels great. I wish everyone could feel the joy and pride I've experienced throughout this journey.
Voices In Transplantation: Laura Allen
Our 'Voices in Transplantation at Weill Cornell Medicine' series is back! Click the video below to watch Laura discuss why she became a living kidney donor! We hope her words inspire others to consider kidney donation!
Do you want to participate in our 'Voices In Transplantation' series?
If so, please email elb9128@nyp.org to learn more.
Educational Events for our Transplant Community
Contact Information
1283 York Ave, Floor 9
New York, NY 10065
P: (212) 746-3099 | F: (212) 746-3100 |
E: transplant@med.cornell.edu