WVU Medicine Hosted ECMO Survivors Luncheon

Former patients and caregivers gathered to share experiences and connect at the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Heart Disease

Flat opaque gouache-painted illustration of two ceramic vessels and a botanical sprig on a tabletop, representing medical recovery and shared experience. — WVU Medicine hosted a luncheon for former ECMO patients and their clinical teams in Morgantown, fostering connection and sharing recovery experiences. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should local hospitals host support reunions for patients who have undergone life-saving medical procedures?

WVU Medicine recently held its second annual luncheon for ECMO survivors in Morgantown. The event provided a space for former patients to reunite with their medical providers.

Why it matters

The gathering allowed survivors of complex ECMO treatment to connect with others who share similar medical histories. It also served as a forum for patients to offer direct feedback on their care.

Approximately 100 people attended the second annual survivors luncheon. This event represents the total gathering size of patients and their caregivers at the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute.

The players

WVU Medicine

This is the primary health care system serving Morgantown and surrounding West Virginia regions.

WVU Heart and Vascular Institute

This specialized center provides advanced cardiovascular treatments including ECMO therapy.

The details

Former patients who underwent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) treatment met with their clinical teams at the Morgantown facility. The luncheon provided a supportive environment for survivors to discuss their recovery journeys with those who provided their care.

September 25, 2026: The ECMO survivors luncheon took place at the institute.

Deeper Dive

This event follows a pattern set by the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute's ECMO support programs. These initiatives reflect a broader clinical shift toward integrated, long-term patient recovery models.

Patients who have undergone major cardiac or respiratory interventions can utilize such gatherings to build support networks and communicate with specialists. These events provide survivors with a platform to offer feedback that can improve hospital care protocols.

The takeaway

Connecting with a community of survivors can play a significant role in the long-term emotional recovery process for medical patients. Survivors should inquire with their specific care providers about potential support groups or annual events to foster continued healing.