In this episode, host Caroline Verdon interviews John Paul McGrail, who shares his compelling story of navigating life after losing his right arm in a car accident in 2006. He describes the challenges of using a prosthetic for over a decade and the life-changing encounter with a customer that led him to consider a hand transplant. John Paul recounts his journey through psychological assessments, the emotional and practical implications of the transplant, and the profound impact it has had on his life. He also touches on the emotional aspects of knowing a donor was involved and how his life and capabilities have changed since the surgery.

Produced by Under the Mast, this podcast is presented by Caroline Verdon

You can find out more about hand and upper limb transplants at LEEDS TEACHING HOSPITALS NHS TRUST here

00:00 Introduction to Leeds Hand Transplant Team

00:30 John Paul's Accident and Initial Struggles

02:47 Discovering the Hand Transplant Option

05:04 The Referral and Initial Consultations

08:03 The Psychological and Physical Assessments

17:16 The Call for the Transplant

21:41 Post-Transplant Experiences and Reflections

31:12 Comparing Prosthetics to the Transplanted Hand

32:25 Preview of the Next Episode