Patient Experiences
Laura Criel, 23
At 23 years old, Laura Criel has undergone more than 20 surgeries — most recently two liver transplants within 10 days of each other.
Criel was near death when she was diagnosed with sudden acute liver failure. She was transferred to Methodist and within 24 hours, underwent a successful liver transplant, despite remaining anhepatic for two hours. For five days, Criel did great, but then her body rejected the new liver and she required a second transplant.
Less than three months later, Criel is recovering and back to work and college — both from a computer at home.
Beverly Lanier, 50
When I was diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer, in 2004, I decided not to accept my doctor's prognosis of living for only three more years. I underwent two surgeries to try to cut out the cancer, but when it returned the third time, I was told I needed a liver transplant. After doing some research, I decided to see the liver transplant team at Methodist, and six months later, I underwent a successful transplant surgery.
Throughout my battle with cancer, I never felt bad, and even since my transplant, I have not experienced the side effects that some patients do. The only thing stopping me now is my nurse, who tells me to slow down and take time to recover! I feel great, and I'm thankful for the treatment I received at Methodist, from the person sweeping the floors to the top dog.
Chloe Pounds, 69
In 1999, I was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver, which was caused from hepatitis C that I contracted from a blood transfusion in the '70s, before they knew about the disease. After several years of treatment with prescription drugs and being on the transplant waiting list, my health took a sudden drop. I was scared to death, but was always comforted by the physicians and staff at Methodist.
On April 6, 2008, I received an emergency liver transplant at Methodist. The very next day, when I woke up, my mind was clearer than it had been in years. I still have a way to go, but I'm so happy to have the opportunity to stay an active member of my church; and I can't wait to get back to work on my ranch, the big love of my life.
Official Health Care Provider of:
Awards and Recognition:
