Intestinal Transplant Patient Stories

At UPMC's Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation and Transplant Program, we put our patients first regardless of the complexity of their case. This patient-centered approach to care has provided new hope to many of our patients by restoring quality of life.

From intestinal transplant to rehabilitation and nutrition management, many of our past patients have gone on to help future patients better understand what to expect.

Note: These patients' treatment and results may not be representative of all similar cases.

Darin Koehler: Intestinal Rehabilitation Patient Story

Photo of Darin Koehler, Intestinal Rehabilitation Patient.

Darin spent 14 months in the hospital after a severe reaction to a medication. After receiving comprehensive intestinal rehabilitation care at UPMC, she’s grateful to be back home with her family.

Read Darin Koehler's story

Shonna Golston: Intestinal Rehabilitation Patient Story

After being diagnosed with short bowel syndrome, Shonna underwent numerous surgeries and came to UPMC through the Veterans Service Program. After receiving advanced treatment at UPMC, Shonna feels like she "got a new lease on life.

Read Shonna Golston's story

Deena Schneider: Intestinal Transplant Patient Story

After suffering from a rare complication of bariatric surgery, Deena could no longer absorb any nutrition and had to be fed through a catheter. Fortunately, Deena found the Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation and Transplant Program at UPMC, where our doctors started her on a plan for surgical rehabilitation.

Read Deena Schneider's story

Jennifer Alley Smith: Intestinal Transplant Patient Story

Throughout her childhood and adolescence, Jennifer was in and out of hospitals for a condition that prevented her from naturally absorbing nutrients from food. Finally, at 21 years old, doctors told her she needed a small bowel transplant and sent her to the experts at UPMC.

Read Jennifer Alley Smith's story