Arthur Guzman

“I want to be an inspirational story, not just another number,” says Arthur Guzman, liver transplant patient.  

In 2019, Arthur Guzman, from Austin, Texas, began experiencing troubling symptoms — he couldn’t keep food down, suffered from abdominal pain and dizziness, and was constantly exhausted. After visiting his doctor and undergoing several tests, he was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver and would need a transplant. His doctor told him he likely had about ten months to live. “It’s not the news you want to hear,” he said. “I was really bummed out.”

While his condition was being managed with medication, it wasn’t enough. Luckily, Arthur’s wife knew about the expert transplant program at Methodist Hospital Specialty and Transplant and encouraged him to go. That recommendation changed everything. 

After additional testing, he was healthy enough to be placed on the transplant wait list. For the next seven months, he endured weekly paracentesis procedures to remove fluid buildup, sometimes several liters at a time. “It was uncomfortable, and I couldn’t sleep well,” Arthur recalled. “Only my wife and middle son knew exactly what I was going through.”

Then, one night, his phone rang. He was informed that a liver match had been found. He immediately woke up his wife, and said, “It’s time to go.” The couple quickly packed up and drove to San Antonio, Texas, where the surgical team was ready. Seven hours later, the transplant was successfully completed.

He still remembers the incredible care he received during his stay. Claudette, one of the staff members, became his lifeline. He also credits Luke Shen, MD, transplant surgeon, and Preston Foster, MD, transplant surgeon, for their exceptional care. “Everyone was awesome,” said Arthur. “From the doctors and nurses to the environmental services team — it was a great experience.” He even wrote a thank-you letter to the staff and kept the liver transplant pillow he received as a token of his life-changing journey.

Today, Arthur says life with a new liver has been “wonderful.” He’s grateful for each new day and has even started his own business. 

“For anyone going through a liver transplant, I’d say stay on a healthy diet and don’t rush your recovery. Have patience — time truly heals,” he shared. “I was given a 50/50 chance to live. God is great, and I’m thankful every day for this second chance at life.”