Christian Gomez

Type of Donation:       liver

Age and Location:      Age 18 – Watsonville, CA

Date of Donation:           03/31/2008 & 05/02/2025

Sponsor:                      Honored by Donor Network West

CHRISTIAN’S STORY

Christian was a late preterm infant. Born at 34 weeks, he was a small baby, weighing only 3 pounds, 11 oz due to complications during pregnancy. Right after birth nurses noticed something was wrong, because he had severe jaundice, and his stools were pale white. He then underwent intensive testing at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, where he was diagnosed with Biliary Atresia. Christian's liver bile ducts were blocked, preventing bile to flow normally into the intestine, which is crucial for digestion and waste removal. This bile buildup was damaging and scaring his liver. In an attempt to create a pathway for the bile flow, Christian underwent a "Kasai Procedure," but unfortunately it was not successful, leading to progressive liver damage.

His overall health continued to deteriorate over time, with fluid buildup around his stomach, and a lack of appetite. NG and intravenous feeding were later started to provide nourishment into his little body. Liver transplantation was his only survival option, so he was listed on the transplant list, but a living donor was a more viable option. At only 9 months old, his mother gave Christian a portion of her liver, and with it a second chance in life. They now celebrate his transplant date on March 31st 2008 as a second birthday. Although he lived a very healthy life for many years, there were a few complications and 17 years later his liver started deteriorating again, leading to liver scarring and ultimately the need for a second transplant. After a year on the transplant waiting list, a new liver arrived on May 2, 2025, and thanks to this wonderful organ donor, Christian has been blessed with a third chance to live a longer and healthier life, with a new chance at achieving all his dreams. Hopefully sharing his story will bring awareness on the importance and need for organ donation.