Kansas City, KS – Army veteran Sid Giffin thought he might wait months, even years, for a life-saving liver transplant after being diagnosed with cirrhosis and liver cancer. Instead, the call came just 23 days later. His surgery marked a remarkable milestone for The University of Kansas Health System: its 2,026th liver transplant in 2026. On Morning Medical Update, Sid and his wife, Vicky, share their emotional journey, while the transplant team explains how donor organs are matched, what happens behind the scenes and the importance of organ donation.
Sid Giffin, Liver Transplant Recipient
Sid expected to spend months or even years waiting for a donor liver but received the call after just 23 days.
He shares the emotional experience of receiving a donor organ and his gratitude for the donor and their family.
Sid felt better just six days after surgery and is looking forward to new adventures with his wife.
Vicky Giffin, Sid's Wife
Vicky shares what it was like supporting Sid through his diagnosis, transplant evaluation and waiting period.
She recalls the unexpected phone call announcing that a donor liver was available.
She discusses the emotional balance between celebrating Sid's second chance and recognizing the loss experienced by the donor's family.
Dr. Tim Schmitt, Director of Transplantation and Transplant Surgeon, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr Schmitt explains how cirrhosis can increase the risk of liver cancer and why Sid needed a liver transplant.
He discusses the MELD scoring system and how liver cancer can affect a patient's priority for transplantation.
He describes the extensive coordination required before a patient receives the call that an organ is available.
Dr. Schmitt explains how liver transplantation has evolved and how advances in medicine have expanded treatment options for patients.
Brent True, Nurse Transplant Coordinator, The University of Kansas Health System
Brent explains the role transplant coordinators play in connecting patients with available donor organs.
He describes what happens when a donor liver becomes available and how the transplant team coordinates the next steps.
He discusses the communication and support provided to patients and families throughout the transplant process.
He explains what recovery and follow-up care involve after a liver transplant.