Keith Lauer
Liver Recipient
“My passion is driven by my donor hero, whom I am grateful for every day. I have personally been through more than I ever thought I could handle, but this gift of life has made it possible for me to continue even brighter than before,” shared liver recipient Keith.
“It was determined shortly after I was born that I had issues with my liver, as I stayed jaundiced for much longer than normal. During my younger years, I went through many tests, doctors’ visits, and even an exploratory operation at five years old. Regular doctor’s visits and blood work were a normal part of growing up for me, as well as taking medications, participating in trials, and conducting medical studies. I enjoyed what I thought was a ‘normal’ childhood, playing sports, swimming, and taking beach vacations. My family was very supportive and understanding, especially my mother, who was always by my side.
I decided to attend college, which was a bold move considering my condition. In the spring of my freshman year, I began to feel sick, and after a series of tests, it was determined that I needed to have my gallbladder removed. During the surgery, the surgeon found that my common bile duct was the size of a thread, which complicated things and required an alternative approach to surgery. After 13 hours, the surgery was completed, with another scheduled for two weeks later. 42 days later, I was able to go home.
I returned to college that fall; however, after a couple of months, I felt unwell again. I went back to the hospital where an internal drainage catheter was inserted through my liver and into my common bile duct to keep it open. I remember asking the doctors if I was going to need a transplant, but it was not as common then. I was encouraged to manage my current health status.
For 35 years and over 175 catheter changes throughout surgeries, I continued my somewhat ‘normal’ life. I went back to college, graduated and began my career. I got married, had two wonderful, healthy boys and for several years was a stay-at-home dad. Although there were certainly things that I couldn’t do because of my health, I made the most of everything and was determined to enjoy my life.
With time, age, and continuous catheter changes, fibrous tissue built up and closed off several areas of my liver, causing me to become very sick in the fall of 2018. After tests and evaluations, I was diagnosed with end-stage liver disease and was told I had three months until hospice services would be needed.
I was officially listed on the liver transplant waitlist on Monday, November 26th, and I received a call on Wednesday, November 28th. I never expected to receive a call so soon. My transplant team at MUSC was so incredibly knowledgeable and professional, and the surgery went well. I was released to go home in time for Christmas.
I look forward to watching my sons grow up and share in their futures, all because my donor hero said YES. I need to give back, share my story, educate and be there for others going through a similar journey. The amazing teams at We Are Sharing Hope SC and Donate Life SC have helped me learn a great deal about the entire transplantation process. I have met with donor families, listened to their stories and shared emotions with them. I have shared time and thoughts with pre- and post-transplant patients. I hope that telling my story makes others feel more comfortable saying YES to registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor.”