An employee of the Goiás State Department of Health (SES-GO), João Paulo Martins, began a new phase in his life, when he underwent a heart transplant in the early hours of last Sunday, September 24. In the month in which many Green September actions are implemented, to promote education, information and awareness among the population about organ donation in the state, João and his wife Adriele Fontes lived moments of hope, fear and joy, until the transplant was completed.
“When we learned about the possibility of a transplant, we had hope and at the same time fear of the unknown. Hope because it has been weak for some time. “So, when they told us about the transplant, and the possibility of improving quality of life, we recognized this hope and this expectation that he could get better and live a normal life,” says Adrielli, a professional singer.
The transplant was performed at the Institute of Cardiology and Transplantation of the Federal District (ICTDF), in Brasilia (DF), where the couple moved and received medical and multidisciplinary support. “When Joao entered the list, he was ninth, and we were called five times. So, when they called, they explained that it was an operation leading to the transplant.
After identifying the potential donor, the patient is called to the hospital to begin the process. But only through harvesting can it be confirmed whether a transplant is possible or not, depending on the circumstances in which the organ was found. “This cannot be predicted before this surgery,” he explains.
Fifth contact
On Saturday, September 24, João and his wife received the fifth call, when the transplant could be performed. After surgery, the patient is expected to stay in the hospital for 20 to 90 days. “In fact, this will only be possible one year after the transplant, and in the meantime we will have to continue living here in Brasilia,” explains Adrielli, adding that after the transplant, it is necessary for the patient to remain in isolation, with medical monitoring so as not to… Member rejection occurs.
In Goiás, the Green September program included “Second Pedal for Life”, with the participation of Patricia Fonseca, a triathlete in the field of heart transplantation; Honoring, in the plenary session of the Legislative Assembly, the partners involved in organ donation and transplantation in Goiás; Flash campaign with drivers and delivery of information materials, in partnership with the State Department of Transport of Goiás (Detran). Green lighting was also added to the facades of public and private entities. Partnerships with shopping malls, football teams and giving lectures in hospitals, schools and companies.
Text: Patricia Almeida / Sector Communication
Photos: personal archive
