by A 9-year-old girl from Altoona, Pennsylvania, is back home after receiving her second heart transplant, marking a new chapter in her life. After nearly a year on the waiting list, Gwen Gabriel is recovering well and preparing to return to school this fall.
What Happened
Gwen Gabriel, born in 2016 with a rare congenital heart defect called hypoplastic right heart syndrome and pulmonary atresia, received her first heart transplant as an infant after waiting 78 days. That heart supported her for eight years until she fell seriously ill in early 2024.
In March 2024, Gwen was placed back on the transplant list. This time, the wait was longer — 339 days — before the family received the life-changing call in March 2025. Gwen then underwent aggressive chemotherapy to reduce antibodies and prepare for the new heart, which was a near-perfect match.
Key Details
- Age: 9 years old
- Condition: Hypoplastic right heart syndrome, pulmonary atresia
- First transplant wait: 78 days in 2016
- Second transplant wait: 339 days (March 2024–March 2025)
- Treatment: Aggressive chemo to reduce antibodies before second transplant
- Current status: Rejection-free and recovering at home
Reactions and Statements
Gwen’s mother, Abigail Gabriel, expressed relief and gratitude:
“It’s so nice just having my family back together and everybody here under the same roof again. It’s been a long time coming, that’s for sure.”
Her father, Glenn Gabriel, highlighted the emotional toll and community support:
“It’s wildly overwhelming, but it’s beautiful because she’s fantastic. Nobody had to do this stuff, and because of the support from others, we survived this 14-plus months.”
The family remains deeply thankful to the donor family:
“If it wasn’t for our donor family, Gwen would’ve never come home. Thank you isn’t even enough.”
Investigation or What’s Next
Gwen’s heart transplant journey is ongoing, but her recovery is promising. She has avoided rejection and has regained the energy to play outside like other children her age. The Gabriel family is optimistic about Gwen returning to school in the fall, supported by the care of doctors and the strength of their community.
FAQs
Q: What condition was Gwen born with?
A: Gwen was born with hypoplastic right heart syndrome and pulmonary atresia, meaning her right heart and pulmonary valve did not fully develop.
Q: How long was Gwen on the heart transplant waiting list?
A: For her first transplant, Gwen waited 78 days. The second time, she waited 339 days.
Q: What treatments did Gwen undergo before her second transplant?
A: Gwen received aggressive chemotherapy to lower antibodies to accept the new heart.
Q: How is Gwen doing now?
A: Gwen is rejection-free, recovering at home, and preparing to return to school.
Q: How does the Gabriel family feel about the donor family?
A: They are profoundly grateful, stating that without the donor family, Gwen would not be alive today.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Gwen Gabriel’s heart transplant journey is a powerful story of hope, resilience, and community support. After a long wait and challenging treatments, this 9-year-old Altoona girl is now healthy, home, and ready to embrace her future. The Gabriel family’s gratitude for their donor family and the medical care Gwen received underscores the life-saving impact of organ donation.
