Transforming Liver Care appeal

Before the children’s liver unit at King’s was created, more than 60% of children diagnosed with liver disorders sadly died. Today, thanks in the most part to the incredible work carried out at King’s, that figure is down to 6%. But there is still so much more to do and that’s why we created the TLC Appeal – to help transform liver care for children. King’s treats 3,000 young patients from all over the UK and we want these children to not only survive but thrive into adulthood.

Thanks to our generous supporters, we have already raised an incredible £500,000 to buy cutting-edge equipment, rejuvenate the hospital environment and provide vital services for these young patients and their families.

With your support, we have:

• Purchased a state-of-the-art ultrasound scanner 
  This non-invasive piece ultrasound machine uses high-frequency sound waves to scan both the anatomy of the transplanted liver and the flow of blood in the vessels, helping clinicians identify any potential problems at the earliest possible stage. Having a dedicated ultrasound scanner on the paediatric liver ward not only reduces waiting times, it also means children can be assessed in a familiar friendly environment rather than being transported across the hospital. Read the full story 
• Helped children and their families attend the annual British Transplant Games
  The Transplant Games is a national event in which teams from all over the UK come together to compete in a variety of sports. As well as highlighting awareness around organ donation and encouraging transplant recipients to lead healthy, active lifestyles, the event is an opportunity for these children to feel part of a team after the often isolating experience of undergoing an organ transplant. Read the full story 
• Funded a Youth Liver Transition Worker 
  Some young transplant patients struggle with their lifelong condition and can skip appointments and medication. So, we have funded a Youth Transition Worker to provide one-to-one support for those who are at risk of disengaging with treatment as they transition between paediatric and adult liver services. Read the full story  
• Improved the experience of young liver patients in our hospitals by:
  • Adding skylights in paediatric wards to brighten up dark corridors and rooms
  • Purchasing PlayStation 5s for the wards
  • Supplying art and craft materials, board games and toys for the play therapy teams
  • Purchasing nightlights, projectors and sensory equipment to distract and relax our young patients before and after surgery
  • Maintaining the aquarium in Rays of Sunshine ward