A Massachusetts man who received the first-ever pig kidney transplant dies at the age of 62

BOSTON – The Massachusetts man who received the world’s first pig kidney transplant has died.

Rick Slayman, 62, of Weymouth, received the kidney from Massachusetts General Hospital 21 March. He was discharged from the hospital two weeks later to continue his recovery at home.

There is no evidence that it was the result of a transplant, MGH says

The kidney was genetically modified to remove pig genes and add human genes that would help improve its capacity.

Massachusetts General Hospital announced Slayman’s death on Saturday, about two months after he underwent the transplant. The hospital also emphasized that there is no evidence that his death was the result of the transplant.

“The Mass General transplant team is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Mr. Rick Slayman. We have no indication that this was the result of his recent transplant. Mr. Slayman will forever be seen as a beacon of hope for countless transplant patients worldwide and we are deeply grateful for his trust and willingness to advance the field of xenotransplantation. We extend our sincere condolences to Mr. Slayman’s family and loved ones as we remember an extraordinary individual whose generosity and kindness touched all who knew him,” Massachusetts General Hospital. said in a statement.

‘Give hope to thousands of people’

Slayman had been living with high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes for several years. He received a human kidney transplant in 2018, but five years later it began to fail.

In a statement, Slayman’s family remembered him as an inspiration to many around the world.

“Millions of people around the world have come to know Rick’s story. We felt – and continue to feel – comforted by the optimism he brought to patients desperately waiting for a transplant. To us, Rick was a kind-hearted man with a sharp sense of humor who was fiercely devoted to his family, friends and colleagues,” Slayman’s family said in a statement.

“After his transplant, Rick said one of the reasons he underwent this procedure was to provide hope for the thousands of people who need a transplant to survive. Rick achieved that goal and his hope and optimism will live on forever .His legacy will be one.” that inspires patients, researchers and healthcare professionals everywhere,” said Slayman’s family.

The family also asked for privacy following Slayman’s death.