Lawrence Faucette, the second person to receive a genetically modified pig heart in an experimental transplant, has passed away after six weeks since the procedure. The University of Maryland Medical Center, where the transplant took place, announced that Faucette's heart had started showing signs of rejection in recent days.

Dr. Bartley Griffith, clinical director of the Cardiac Xenotransplantation Program at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, expressed his condolences and shared Faucette's desire to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge. Faucette's last wish was for the medical team to build upon the experience gained from his case so that others who are faced with the unavailability of human organs can have a chance at receiving a new heart. He expressed his love for the doctors and nurses before bidding farewell.

Faucette, aged 58, was admitted to UMMC on September 14 after experiencing heart failure symptoms. Due to his heart disease and pre-existing conditions, he was not eligible for a traditional human heart transplant. In an interview prior to the surgery, Faucette shared his hope for a successful xenotransplant, stating that it was his only chance for a new heart.

His wife, Ann Faucette, expressed optimism at the time, hoping for more quality time together. While Faucette's doctors initially reported significant progress in the immediate weeks following the surgery, with him participating in physical therapy and spending time with his family, his condition worsened later on.

Despite the hopeful signs, Faucette's heart began to show signs of rejection, leading to his unfortunate passing. Doctors had administered experimental antibody treatment to suppress his immune system and prevent rejection, but organ rejection remains a significant challenge even in traditional human organ transplants.

This recent loss highlights the urgent need for organ donors, as there are currently over 113,000 individuals on the organ transplant list, with more than 3,300 of them in need of a heart transplant. Tragically, 17 people die every day while waiting for a donor organ, according to Donate Life America.

Faucette's case follows the initial experimental surgery performed on David Bennett, aged 57, in January 2022, also at the University of Maryland. Bennett passed away two months after the surgery due to heart failure caused by various factors, including his condition prior to the transplant. A Lancet case study also indicated the presence of an unidentified pig virus.

The passing of Lawrence Faucette serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks associated with xenotransplants. While this experimental procedure carries promise, further research and refinement are necessary to ensure its long-term success and minimize complications.