Cincinnati, OH – Nearly five decades ago, Terri’s battle with non-Hodgkin lymphoma set the stage for a lifelong medical journey that culminated in a life-saving heart transplant. As the first- ever heart transplant recipient at The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio, Terri's story is one of resilience, medical innovation, and unwavering gratitude.
Diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma at 16, Terri underwent treatments that ultimately led to cardiomyopathy at 43. Over time, her heart condition deteriorated, requiring advanced medical interventions, including an Impella heart pump as a bridge to transplant. Under the long-term care of Dr. O’Brien, a dedicated heart failure specialist, she was referred to The Christ Hospital’s Advanced Heart Failure Team in late 2022.
By October 2022, it was clear that Terri’s condition had reached a critical stage. On October 24, she met Dr. Dowling, the hospital’s transplant surgeon, who confirmed she was in end-stage heart failure. A heart transplant became her only hope for survival.
Terri was admitted to the hospital on October 26, and after extensive testing, she was placed on the national transplant list with the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) on November 1. Just three days later, a suitable heart was found. On the evening of November 5, she was wheeled into the operating room, and by dawn, the transplant was complete.
Her recovery proved to be challenging, requiring 27 days in the hospital’s Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU). She faced common post-transplant complications, including heart pacing issues and medication adjustments. Throughout her hospital stay, Terri underwent rigorous cardiac rehabilitation, alongside physical and occupational therapy. Her husband, George, played a pivotal role as her primary caregiver, receiving training to help manage her post-transplant care.
Now, 27 months post-transplant, Terri and George have embraced a "new normal." While adjustments were necessary due to Terri’s immunosuppressed state, the couple remains grateful for each day. Their journey has led them to advocate for organ donation and offer support to others facing similar experiences.
Terri and George have always been deeply aware of the selfless act of their donor and their donor’s family. Since the moment she was placed on the transplant list, Terri has honored the sacrifice made by committing to a healthy lifestyle and following her medical regimen diligently. In addition to their personal adjustments, the couple actively promotes organ donation awareness. They serve as Ambassadors for their local Organ Procurement Organization (OPO) Network for Hope, while George also volunteers with Life Connection of Ohio. They also support the Student Organ Donation Advocates (SODA) chapter at the Warren County Career Center, Atrium Campus, working to educate and inspire young people to consider organ donation.
Inspired by his caregiving experience, George also founded a virtual transplant support group for caregivers of solid organ recipients. The group provides a safe space for caregivers to share their experiences, seek guidance, and navigate the unique challenges of supporting a transplant recipient. “While we all may have different journeys, we share common experiences,” George said.
Those interested in joining the support group can find more details at TCHCaregiversHeart.com.
Terri’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of organ donation. Her message is simple but profound: “I was given the most beautiful gift—the gift of life. From acomplete stranger, I received a new heart, a gift for which I will be forever grateful. Please consider becoming an organ, eye, or tissue donor. We never know when a family member, a friend, or a stranger may require such a gift.”
