Multivisceral Transplant Patient Story

Barry Goff
Charlotte, MI

We Cherish Life and Every Moment Together

Barry’s story is long and complex, much like the multivisceral transplant surgery that saved his life. It begins at another hospital far away where Barry had bariatric surgery that resulted in unhealthy blood clotting. This led to many months of blood thinning medications and concern about clots in his intestines and gastrointestinal tract.

Hernia surgery two years later revealed internal bleeding and damage to Barry’s liver. At that time, Barry met with Henry Ford’s liver outreach clinic in his hometown of Lansing to better assess the liver damage.

A year later, Barry found himself in a local hospital with blood clots in both legs and substantial internal bleeding. He was told nothing could be done, and that he should consider hospice care. Shocked, confused and nearly hopeless, Barry looked at his wife Michelle and said, “What about Henry Ford?”

In less than a week, they were on their way to Detroit to meet with Shunji Nagai, M.D., Director of the Intestine and Multivisceral Transplant program at Henry Ford Hospital. After careful evaluation, Barry was listed for a multivisceral transplant. After an eight-month wait, a matching donor was available, and Barry and Michelle, along with a few close family and friends, were on their way back to Detroit for the life-saving surgery.

The road was not always easy, as Barry’s 17-day hospital stay was extended by an additional 31 days to deal with complications of organ rejection, but his Henry Ford team never gave up and neither did he. Barry recalls the care he received at Henry Ford, “The doctors and nurses were fabulous. They even let our kids and my dad visit, which was great.” He also mentions Transplant Coordinator, Nemie Beltran, R.N., “She was so awesome.”

Now, Barry is home. He’s building his strength, doing some home projects and enjoying the gift of life. Michelle continues her job as a purchasing agent, which she did from Barry’s room at Henry Ford Hospital on each of his in-patient days.

Michelle commented, “My heart goes out to the donor’s family and friends today and always. I could never wish the loss of life of anyone, but because of their precious loved one they have given my husband the gift of life. My thoughts and prayers will always be with them; their loved one is a true hero to me. Barry and I are beyond blessed; we cherish life and enjoy every moment together.”