Today, Mr. Rick Slayman, the world's first living recipient of a genetically-edited pig kidney transplant, was successfully discharged home from Massachusetts General Hospital.

Mr. Slayman released the following statement:

This moment – leaving the hospital today with one of the cleanest bills of health I’ve had in a long time – is one I wished would come for many years. Now, it’s a reality and one of the happiest moments of my life. I want to thank everyone at Massachusetts General Hospital who cared for me before and after my historic transplant, especially Dr. Williams, Dr. Riella, Dr. Kawai, and the countless nurses who looked after me every day of my stay. The care I received was exceptional and I trust physicians of the Mass General Brigham health system with my life. I’m excited to resume spending time with my family, friends, and loved ones free from the burden of dialysis that has affected my quality of life for many years. Lastly, I want to thank anyone who has seen my story and sent well-wishes, especially patients waiting for a kidney transplant. Today marks a new beginning not just for me, but for them, as well. My recovery is progressing smoothly and I ask for privacy at this time.

Photos of Slayman and His Care Team

Photos available for media

Slayman with (left to right) Dr. Leo Riella, Medical Director of Kidney Transplantation, Dr. Nahel Elias, Interim Chief, Division of Transplant Surgery, his partner, Faren, and Dr. Tatsuo Kawai, Director, Legoretta Center for Clinical Transplant Tolerance.

Slayman shakes Dr. Kawai’ s hand as Riella and Kawai look on.

Slayman and his partner, Faren, with the nursing staff of the MGH Inpatient Transplant Unit who cared for Slayman during his stay.

Slayman hugs his patient advocate, Susan Klein, before being discharged.

Slayman with (left to right) Elias, Kawai, and Riella.

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Centers and Departments