What are the dynamics and barriers of transplants for individuals with congenital heart disease? SYNOPSIS Internationally renowned pianist Paul Cardall introduces families who had children with similar complex heart defects like himself. These friends and associates of the pianist had endured countless heart surgeries and the last resort was to receive a heart transplant. Unfortunately, a majority of patients with complex heart defects (CHD) are unable to receive heart transplants. . The question is why don’t sicker congenital cases do not make it ahead of those with normal anatomy – is it because of the technicalities of the surgery and we need to do more research and development (I.e. they do not have the anatomy for a healthy heart to be placed), or is the fear of bad outcomes messing up the stats (they can do it but take an easier lower risk case over a difficult one), or is it indeed that “the system” works against this and legislative action can resolve this issue? OTHER CONSIDERATIONS 1) There are not enough people registered as organ donors. 2) There are not enough cardiovascular surgeons who understand congenital heart disease or do they have experience operating on these patients. Medical schools should require further education on pre-existing defects. Learn more about congenital heart disease by visiting rb.gy/d3re4 Register to be an Organ donor www.registerme.org/