Ohio is at the center of a heated debate as Cincinnati Children’s Hospital refuses a heart transplant for a 12-year-old girl whose family opposes vaccinations.
Key Takeaways
- Adaline Deal denied a heart transplant due to lack of vaccinations.
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital mandates vaccines for transplant eligibility.
- Family claims religious discrimination and seeks alternative options.
- Support grows for Ohio House Bill 319 advocating for medical freedom.
Hospital Policy and Transplant Eligibility
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital has denied a heart transplant to 12-year-old Adaline Deal because she is not vaccinated against coronavirus and influenza. The hospital requires all transplant patients to be vaccinated to reduce post-transplant infection risks. Born with Ebstein’s anomaly and Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, Adaline’s condition is critical. Due to her family’s religious convictions, they refuse vaccination, preventing her from being placed on the transplant list. Hospital spokesperson Bo McMillan stated their “clinical decisions are guided by science” to ensure patient safety.
Adaline Deal was adopted from China at age four and is related to Vice President JD Vance. Her parents, upheld by their beliefs, have gained support from advocacy groups and have publicized their situation. They argue that these requirements are religious discrimination. They’ve raised over $50,000 to potentially fund a transplant at a different facility. Despite their efforts, barriers remain, as many transplant centers have similar vaccination requirements.
Familial and Public Response
In response to the hospital’s decision, Janeen Deal, Adaline’s mother, has expressed her frustration, stating, “I thought, wow. So, it’s not about the kid. It’s not about saving her life.” Seeking to bypass the vaccination barrier, they have contacted Boston Children’s Hospital as a possible alternative. Janeen Deal’s online efforts have also connected her with Ohio Advocates for Medical Freedom. Stephanie Stock from the organization underscores, “You can’t even get on the list until you get the shots… you don’t get a heart.” This sentiment resonates with many who feel personal beliefs should be respected in medical decision-making.
Adaline’s family is further pushing for legislative action by supporting Ohio House Bill 319. Introduced by Rep. Jennifer Gross, the bill aims to prevent services denial based on refusal of mRNA vaccines. However, concerns loom over whether the legislation can pass swiftly enough to benefit Adaline. Advocacy for medical autonomy is gaining momentum, reflecting broader national discourses on medical rights.
Medical Context and Future Prospects
The insistence on vaccination for transplant recipients is rooted in their heightened vulnerability to infections. Dr. Camille Kotton highlights the critical need, stating, “The first year after transplant is when they’re at highest risk for infection” and stresses, “they do have a lifelong risk of severe disease.” The advocacy for vaccines by medical professionals underscores the complexity of balancing personal freedoms with public health safety.
While Adaline’s family bids for her heart transplant against a ticking clock, they remain hopeful. “We’re just buying time here. I’m just hoping we have time,” says Janeen Deal. The family’s determination and advocacy shine a spotlight on a profound national conversation intersecting medical protocol, religious freedom, and patient rights. Supporters hope that changes to policies or laws might one day align with personal beliefs without compromising care.
Sources
1. Ohio Hospital Denies New Heart for 12-Year-Old Relative of Vance, Says Family
2. JD Vance’s 12-year-old relative denied heart transplant because she is unvaccinated
