First recipient of pig kidney transplant dies two months after surgery

Richard Slayman, the first person to undergo a genetically modified pig kidney transplant, has tragically passed away at the age of 62. Richard had received the groundbreaking transplantation in March of this year, in a bid to combat his end-stage kidney disease.

In a statement released by the Mass General transplant team, they expressed their deep sadness at Richard’s sudden passing. They emphasized that there was no indication that his death was a result of the recent transplant. The hospital hailed Richard as a beacon of hope for transplant patients worldwide and commended his willingness to advance the field of xenotransplantation.

Richard’s journey with kidney disease had been a challenging one. After a failed human kidney transplant in 2018, he turned to the innovative option of a pig kidney transplant. Following the surgery on March 16, Richard no longer required dialysis, and his new organ was functioning well.

Xenotransplantation, the process of transplanting organs from one species to another, holds promise for addressing organ shortages and treating life-threatening conditions like organ failure. Despite challenges such as immune rejection and disease transmission risks, advancements in genetic engineering and organ preservation techniques aim to overcome these obstacles.

Richard’s family shared that his decision to undergo the procedure was driven by a desire to provide hope for the thousands of people in need of transplants. They emphasized that his legacy of hope and optimism will endure, inspiring patients, researchers, and healthcare professionals alike.

The passing of Richard Slayman serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and possibilities within the realm of medical science and transplantation. His courage and contribution to the field will not be forgotten.