My name is Dianna, and I am asking for your help to save my life. I am 47 years old and on the liver transplant list at John Hopkins Comprehensive Transplant Center in Baltimore, MD.  

I work for a local Animal Shelter in the Baltimore area. During my free time I enjoy hiking and biking and being outdoors. After my transplant, I look forward to getting back to feeling well.  I’m also looking forward to seeing concerts and going camping and just being able to spend time with my family again without the anxiety of waiting. There is so much uncertainty in my life right now. My family and friends have made great sacrifices to help me. I often worry about them having to help care for me as I get sicker. 

Two in half years ago I was diagnosed with Primary Biliary Cholangitis, an autoimmune disease of the bile ducts. The chronic inflammation has caused irreversible scarring to my liver (cirrhosis), portal hypertension and esophageal varices. These conditions have caused problems with the functions of my other organs and blood. I’ve been on the waitlist for two years now. In my search for a donor I have had several friends and family member be tested.  We came very close as my friend appeared to be a match, but during the transplant work up found out she had an extra bile duct and would only be able to donate her left lobe.  It would not be large enough for me, but could be donated to a child. While it did not work out for me in a paired transplant, my friend was able to donate to a child anyway. I would like to share my gratitude with anyone that may consider being a donor.  As my friend was able to donate to a stranger I understand that your generosity would change my life. 

I am looking for a living donor. I am asking this of both friends and strangers, because I have no immediate family or friends that are a match. Living donor transplants generally have better outcomes and can be arranged at a time convenient for both parties. No waiting and wondering while my body continues to weaken. It would help in my recovery to find a donor before becoming more ill waiting for a deceased donor. I am compatible with any Type A or Type O blood type.  

The first step is to contact my transplant center using the information in the box below. The entire process is strictly confidential and medical costs are covered by my insurance. Please review existing Living Donor Benefits to determine which apply to you. If you are not eligible for a tax credit, I can reimburse for donation related expenses as permissible by law. In addition, the American Transplant Foundation has financial assistance available to cover any lost wages while you donate for those who are eligible after donation.  

Thank you for considering saving my life.  

With deep gratitude,  

Dianna