Transitioning to Adult Hospital Services 

Growing up with Cystic Fbrosis (CF) means you are used to a familiar routine with a familiar hospital team and lots of help from parents and nurses. However, between the ages of 16 and 18, you will move to adult hospital services. 

This move can feel daunting because as an adult, you need to take on more personal responsibility with a brand-new medical team. 

On September 5th, the University of Galway, Children in Hospital Ireland, and Helium Arts hosted an event called "Le Chéile." The meeting brought people together to find ways to make moving to adult care easier for young people and families. 

At the event, a really helpful website called www.SteppingUp.ie was featured. This is an online hub which provides guides, real stories, checklists, and planning tools made specifically for young people in Ireland who are changing hospital services. 

If you or someone you know are preparing for adult care, here is what you should do: 

• Start early instead of waiting until the last minute. 

• Visit SteppingUp.ie to read the new Transition Guide and use the checklists. 

• Talk to your current paediatric team about how the move to adult care works. 

• Contact the Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (CFI) team if you or your family need support. 

You do not have to make this big move by yourself.