Towana Looney, a 53-year-old woman from Alabama, is on the path to recovery after a remarkable kidney transplant. On November 25th at NYU Langone Health in New York City, she underwent surgery using an organ from a genetically manipulated pig. This life-changing event has brought new hope and a sense of renewal to her life.

A Woman's Journey from Dialysis to a Working Kidney

Background and Pre-Transplant Struggles

Towana Looney had previously donated a kidney to her mother in 1999. However, her remaining kidney was damaged due to pregnancy complications and eventually failed. This led her to endure eight years of dialysis, a treatment that removes extra fluid and waste from the blood when the kidneys are unable to do so. The development of high levels of antibodies made it difficult for her to receive a kidney from a human donor.During this time, she faced numerous challenges and limitations. Just performing one task would leave her exhausted, and she had to take frequent breaks. But now, with the successful transplant, her energy levels have skyrocketed.

The Transplant Procedure and Approval

After a long wait, Towana Looney underwent the groundbreaking surgery using the organ from a genetically manipulated pig. This was a significant milestone as it offered her a chance at a normal life. The procedure was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after she first applied in April 2023.Dr. Robert Montgomery of NYU Langone Health and Dr. Jayme Locke worked together on this complex transplant. Their expertise and dedication played a crucial role in making the surgery a success.

Recovery and Present Status

Just 11 days after the surgery, Towana Looney was discharged from the hospital. She is now recuperating well, despite a temporary readmission this week to adjust her medications. She is expected to return home to Gadsden, Alabama in three months.The fact that she is feeling so much better is truly remarkable. She described it as "like a new beginning" and added that having a working kidney and being able to feel its normal function is unbelievable. She is now able to multitask with ease, a far cry from her days on dialysis.

The Significance of the Transplant

This transplant is not just a personal victory for Towana Looney but also a significant step forward in the field of medicine. Scientists are now genetically altering pigs so their organs are more humanlike, offering hope to thousands of people on the transplant list.With more than 100,000 people remaining on the U.S. transplant list and around 5,600 Americans dying each year waiting for a human organ, this breakthrough could completely change the landscape of end-organ failure.Dr. Montgomery himself, who has had a heart transplant, emphasized the importance of this transplantation. He said, "This could completely change the math of end-organ failure and what that means in terms of the likelihood of getting a transplant. Xenotransplantation is about eliminating that gamble."Although NYU Langone Health did not immediately respond when contacted for additional updates on Looney's recovery, her story continues to inspire hope and innovation in the medical community.