UMM logo

A Member of the University of Maryland Medical System   |   In Partnership with the University of Maryland School of Medicine

Share

Email PageEmail Print PagePrint

Transplant Center

Patient Testimonials

Liver Recipients and Donors

Jessica Protasio

Jessica Protasio

Jessica Protasio

Jessica Protasio was 28 years old when she was diagnosed with liver cancer. A liver transplant was the only option for her. Jessica began changing her diet and exercise habits to prepare her body to support a new liver.

After her transplant, she competed in her first ever foot races and has plans for Iron Girl triathlons. Jessica is a firm believer in being your own best advocate for your health and wellness, and she now has a new respect for her "one and only" liver and her overall well-being. Watch Jessica's video »

David Krech

David Krech

A 28-year old man from Georgia, David Krech, is recovering from a rare, lifesaving heart/liver transplant on October 15 at the University of Maryland Medical Center. The 13-hour operation followed a five-month journey as he awaited a suitable heart and liver donor.

The journey began in early May. Dr. Raul Santos, Krech's physician in Thomasville, Ga., believed that the young man would not survive much longer without a heart and liver transplant. He contacted the University of Maryland Medical Center's heart transplant program for help. Read David's story.

Ken Smith

Ken Smith

Since 1980, Ken Smith, a resident of Ocean Pines, Maryland., had been coping with numerous health problems, including elevated levels of liver enzymes, Type 2 diabetes and pancytopenia. In 2004, Ken was diagnosed with liver and kidney failure. His local gastroenterologist referred him to UMMC for evaluation, where it was determined he needed both a liver and kidney transplant. In 2008, Smith had the transplant and two years after the surgery, he has made a full recovery and is able to enjoy a full life with his family and friends. Read Ken's story.

Donald Guyton and Russell Ward

Domino Liver Transplant Recipients

Russell Ward, left, (with his wife Dee) holds a medical identification bracelet given to him by Donald Guyton, right. Guyton's wife Louise is behind him.

Donald Guyton, 64, had a liver disease which was causing paralysis and eventually could have resulted in fatal heart damage. But for Russell Ward, 74, who was extremely ill with another type of liver disease, Guyton's liver proved to be a lifesaver. As part of a unique "domino" or sequential liver transplant, the first ever performed in Maryland, Guyton received a new liver from a deceased donor to cure his paralyzing disease. Then his liver was transplanted into Ward, who was suffering from liver failure.

The simultaneous transplants took place in an 18-hour operation on May 19, 2005. Read full story


If you would like to make an appointment or talk to someone about our services, please call 410-328-5408 or 1-800-492-5538.

This page was last updated on: January 6, 2012.