Chicago City Wire

When Luciano Dimas noticed health issues in late 2017, he attributed them to aging. Having just started a job at Chicago’s Midway International Airport, where he met his girlfriend, Darlene Banks, he was optimistic about his future. However, by 2020, Luciano's health declined significantly, culminating in an ER visit due to COVID-19 that revealed advanced liver cirrhosis.

UI Health's Hepatology Program, as described by nurse practitioner Lisa Landers, offered Luciano interventions to manage his condition. Yet, medication proved insufficient, prompting a consultation with UI Health Transplant Program members Lisa Mariano and Dr. Mario Spaggiari. Although Luciano's MELD score did not necessitate an immediate transplant, he was advised to consider a living-donor transplant.

Engaged to Darlene, Luciano was eager for resolution but had not found a donor by their May 2023 wedding. Darlene, motivated by her desire for a future together, explored the possibility of becoming his donor despite initial concerns about ethnicity-related compatibility. Lisa Mariano guided both through the donation process, addressing Darlene's concerns thoroughly.

Upon determining that Darlene was a match, the pair underwent transplant surgery at UI Health in December 2023, removing about 70% of Darlene’s liver for Luciano. Both were home recovering within weeks, with Luciano experiencing significant improvements in his energy and health post-surgery.

Luciano reflects, “This experience has made me realize how much of my daily life I took for granted and how lucky I am that my wife would do something like this for me.”