Living Liver Donor Updates with Billie Jo

04/01/2022

National Donate Life Month is upon us! Join us during the month of April as we encourage Americans to register as organ, eye, and tissue donors and honor those who have saved lives through the gift of donation. Follow along throughout the month for all things and don't forget to register your decision to become a living donor today at https://upmc.me/35rTkGP

03/08/2022

With a huge, heavy heart, I am literally crushed to be in posting this update.
For the last 16 years, the ol' man and you have blessed me in more ways than I can count. Life will NEVER be the same without you. The long phone calls, the laughing at our mishaps, how forgetful we are, how clumsy we are, crying to each other about personal things. Through the good and bad, you've been there for me through it all. You've helped me with Rylie and I know there is no way that she would have turned out to be the perfect, spectacular young lady that she is if it weren't for you and Big Ol' Steve. You helped taken the burden off me and provided for her when I didn't know how I was going to make ends meet. You have proved that DNA does not make a family. You've accepted Matteo and Isaac and treated them like your blood. When you bought for Rylie, you always sent something for them. You've accepted Brian into our family like your blood. You've been my strength when I was weak. You've taught me how to love again even after heartaches. You've believed in me when I felt like all hope was lost. When I didn't think I could go on, you booted me in the butt and gave me the strength to move forward.You've helped me mature in so many areas. I can't believe this is it but you are finally home with Stephen welcoming you with open arms. I love you more than you will ever. You are one of the best things to ever happen to me. RIP Aunt Linda, until we meet again. Thank you for everything. I promise I will do you proud.

12/25/2021

This is a gift Stephen wanted me to have for the holidays before he passed away. My Aunt and Uncle gave it to me for Christmas tonight. It's beautiful. I still can't believe he's gone. He's missed everyday and things have not been the same since June 24th.

08/26/2021

If anyone is interested in being a donor, don't let someone tell you you can't be donor without having the same blood time. Technically you do not have to be the same blood type. UPMC is the only place I believe in the country to do this, but it is common in other countries. Google “ABO incompatible transplant” and you will find more info. Basically they “prep” the recipient’s blood by a process called plasmapheresis where they try to rid the body of antibodies against the donor’s blood type antibodies. I was told by Dr Humar my surgeon that they usually will try to find a paired exchange first, but if they can’t and the recipient is likely to get worse/die without a transplant they will do it. It is a bit higher risk but not by much. Pretty cool stuff!

06/24/2021

RIP Stephen. You fought hard, especially over the last 15 months. No more pain and suffering. Watch over your mom and Dad. We love you,buddy.

06/09/2021

With almost 14,000 patients on the national liver transplant waiting list and a growing shortage of deceased-donor livers, living donor-liver transplantation gives many patients a chance to receive a transplant sooner and experience better outcomes. Learn about the benefits and risks.

05/30/2021

I know it's been a while since I've updated but there's not much change in Stevie's condition. His lab work and blood sugars are still all over the place. He's still going to dialysis. Lastly, he still has a trach / vent.
It's been 430 days and he's still in the TICU. 😭😭😭

04/28/2021

03/31/2021

Just wanted to upload these pictures real quick. I'll provide updates soon.. His shirt unable to be put on due to his trach. It also looks way too big for him.

**Permission was obtained by my cousin and his mom to upload these pictures.**