Sisters Abbi and Kate were born with a rare genetic disorder that leads to liver and kidney dysfunction. The girls each needed double-organ transplants to survive. With a need for matching livers and kidneys, the wait was long.
Abbi was listed for transplant in 2010. In 2011, Katie’s declining kidney function required her to receive dialysis three times per week. As both girls waited for lifesaving transplant at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, their situation was complicated by the need for two matching organs. Fewer than 20 kidney-liver transplants for pediatric patients occur annually in the United States.
Finally, in 2013, Kate received her transplants, and Abbi's surgery followed eight months later. Soon after, the sisters were able to return to school and enjoy their favorite activities again. Today, the sisters are happy, healthy, and inspired to spend their lives helping others -- Abbi as a transplant coordinator, and Kate as a dialysis nurse.
