A Man Who Had Been Living With A Transplanted Pig's Heart For 40 Days Died Suddenly

A guy who was the world’s second recipient of a genetically engineered pig heart transplant has died.

Lawrence Faucette underwent surgery in September, during which physicians successfully implanted a pig’s heart into his chest.

The 58-year-old was in end-stage cardiac failure at the University of Maryland Medical Center.

According to the medical center, he was ineligible for a standard heart transplant due to ‘advanced medical problems’ such as peripheral vascular disease.

The US Food and Drug Administration granted the hospital an emergency permit to give Lawrence a genetically modified pig heart in the hope that it would prolong his life.

Medical personnel were overjoyed when the patient’s body exhibited no signs of rejection following the transplant process.

Lawrence had a follow-up a month later, and his new heart was performing admirably.

He was able to regain his walking abilities and participate in physical treatment.

However, his body began to reject the alien organ a few days later, and his health rapidly deteriorated.

He died unexpectedly on October 30, little over six weeks after the procedure.

Ann Lawrence, Lawrence’s wife, stated in a statement, “Larry began this journey with an open mind and complete trust in Dr. Griffith and his staff.”

“He knew his time with us was limited, and this was his last opportunity to help others.”

“He never expected to live as long as he did, or to contribute as much data to the xenotransplant program.” He was a man who was always concerned about people, particularly myself and his two sons.

“Others’ kindness and selflessness were not overlooked.”\

“Larry was always telling the nurses, support staff, and doctors how much he appreciated everything they did for him.”

“He was not only thinking about how this journey was helping to advance the xenotransplant program, but how it affected his family.”

They were ‘in awe of the man that he was, and now he has altered our lives,’ she said.

The Faucette family has expressed gratitude to the medical professionals who have guided them since the initial surgery.

The surgeon who transplanted the pig’s heart into Lawrence was Dr. Bartley P. Griffith.

“We mourn the loss of Mr. Faucette, a remarkable patient, scientist, Navy veteran, and family man who simply desired more time with his loving wife, sons, and family,” he added.

“Mr. Faucette’s final wish was for us to make the most of what we’ve learned from our experience so that others will have a chance for a new heart when a human organ is unavailable.”

“He then told the doctors and nurses gathered around him how much he loved them.” We will miss him terribly.”

A Man Who Had Been Living With A Transplanted Pig’s Heart For 40 Days Died Suddenly

A guy who was the world’s second recipient of a genetically engineered pig heart transplant has died.

The US Food and Drug Administration granted the hospital an emergency permit to give Lawrence a genetically modified pig heart in the hope that it would prolong his life.

He was able to regain his walking abilities and participate in physical treatment.

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