‘It was originally someone else’s:’ Heart transplant surgery leaves Arizona teen with survivor’s guilt

December 3, 2025 WOL

Phoenix Children’s Hospital patient Andrea was 11 years old when she battled with depression after she received a heart transplant from an anonymous donor.

PHOENIX — Recovering from heart transplant surgery has been more psychological than physical for 14-year-old Andrea of Phoenix.

“I felt I didn’t deserve it. It was originally someone else’s,” Andrea said.

She inherited a heart condition that required a transplant as a preventative measure. Her sister underwent the same procedure. But Andrea struggled long after surgery, knowing she had someone else’s heart who had died.

Experts say it is not uncommon for a child or teen to experience a range of emotions after transplant surgery, including relief, survivor’s guilt, depression, confusion and even suicide ideation in some cases.

“For so long our goal in the medical field has been survival. But our transplant team really does prioritize this holistic perspective to healthcare,” said Sarah Anais, a Phoenix Children’s Hospital psychologist.

Psychologists at the hospital monitor patients before and after transplant surgery, helping them understand their feelings and develop coping strategies.

“Our goal is not to erase feelings or get rid of them, but to manage them because transplant is a lifelong journey. These feelings will come up throughout their journey,” Anais said.

Transplant patients must often adjust to dietary, medication, and lifestyle changes; adding to the importance of mental healthcare.

Andrea’s mom credits Phoenix Children’s psychologists for saving Andrea’s life. Andrea said she learned coping strategies from her psychologist like breathing techniques, journaling and drawing.

“We talked a lot about my fear, depression and anxiety,” Andrea said.

She said she learned to reframe her thoughts and focus on what the wishes of the donor family.

“I feel like I will always feel sad for the family, to know someone died,” Andrea said. “But I think it’s good to know they wanted it. It’s something they signed up for.”

Suicide Lifeline

If you know anyone who is struggling, call the National Suicide Hotline at 988.

Anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide can also reach out for help by calling 1-800-273-8255.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential support to people experiencing suicidal ideation or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the U.S. The service aims to improve crisis services and advance suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.

Arizona’s Suicide/Crisis Hotlines by County: