Childhood Illness Survivor Becomes Medical Student, Returns to Hospital That Saved Her

Ella Kramer, who underwent two liver transplants and spent years as a patient at Schneider Children's Medical Center, is now in her second year of medical school and will soon return to the hospital as a student. Kramer was diagnosed with biliary atresia, a rare liver disease, at age 10, requiring her first transplant in Germany. She faced numerous surgeries and hospitalizations throughout her childhood and adolescence, including a second liver transplant in adulthood from a donor who died in a car accident.

Despite her challenging medical journey, Kramer pursued her education, completing her matriculation exams while hospitalized. She was inspired by the medical staff who cared for her, fueling her dream of becoming a doctor. After recovering from her second transplant, she initially struggled to adapt to life outside the hospital, eventually seeking psychological support.

Kramer is now studying medicine at Reichman University, aiming to specialize at Schneider Children's Medical Center. She hopes to inspire other children facing similar health challenges, showing them that a full life is possible. She recently married, with many of the medical professionals who supported her throughout her life attending the wedding, alongside the family of her organ donor.

Kramer emphasizes the importance of organ donation, stating that it gave her a new, independent life. She is determined to make the most of her second chance, living life to the fullest and not wasting a moment. Her return to Schneider as a medical student represents a full circle, transforming her from a patient into a caregiver.