Pioneering Heart-Liver Transplant Gives Houston Woman a Second Chance

Sue Baker's health struggles began in 2015, leading to frequent hospital visits. She received a pacemaker to regulate her heartbeat and later, in 2019, a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) to help her heart circulate blood. Despite relying on the LVAD, she embraced life, marrying and building a home. However, she knew the LVAD was temporary and sought a more permanent solution.

In 2023, Baker's heart rhythm became unstable, prompting her admission to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, and placement on the transplant list. She endured painful shocks from her LVAD and pacemaker while waiting. Her body also produced excessive antibodies, increasing the risk of organ rejection. Her doctor, Dr. Pareg Patel, explored various treatments to manage the antibodies.

a heart-liver transplant. This procedure, never before performed on someone with an LVAD, could potentially resolve the antibody issue. The alternative was palliative care. Baker, recognizing the limited choices, agreed to the experimental procedure.

The liver's ability to reduce antibodies made it a promising solution. While heart-liver transplants require waiting for both organs from the same donor, it was Baker's best chance. Dr. Patel believed this innovative approach offered a lifeline, potentially saving her from a dire prognosis.

After months of waiting and facing complications, including COVID-19 and pneumonia, Baker received word in September 2024 that a heart and liver were available. The surgery was anticipated to be challenging due to her health, but the team believed it was the best option. Baker would also donate her healthy liver in a domino operation.

Following a lengthy recovery, Baker focused on bonding with fellow patients and offering encouragement. She received a letter from the recipient of her liver. However, tragedy struck shortly after her release from the hospital when her husband died. This, coupled with medical bills and funeral expenses, created financial instability.

Baker now relies on her church and a caretaker for support. She hopes her participation in the groundbreaking surgery will pave the way for more patients to receive life-saving treatment. Dr. Patel confirmed that similar surgeries have already been performed, and more are planned. Baker believes her experience has opened doors for other LVAD patients to have a chance at a longer life.