Kelowna mother will have lifesaving surgery after 10 months on waitlist

Lindsay Richholt will receive a liver transplant on December 10, following a 10-month wait on the transplant list. Despite being in critical condition, her MELD score was initially calculated at 11, which did not reflect her true health status. Doctors later acknowledged that her actual condition warranted a score of 25. Frustrated with the prioritization system, Richholt reached out to her MLA, Kristina Loewen, prompting media coverage of her situation. This advocacy helped elevate her position on the transplant waitlist.

As she faces the impending surgery, Richholt remains vigilant about her health, particularly with flu season approaching. She aims to fight for other patients who may be overlooked by the current system. The emotional weight of the last few days has strengthened her resolve to push for change within the healthcare framework.