Man's Pig Kidney Transplant Brings Hope to Thousands Awaiting Transplants
Tim Andrews, a man from Boston, has made headlines recently for his groundbreaking kidney transplant. In January 2025, he became the fourth living patient in the US to receive a genetically modified pig kidney. The transplant, performed by Mass General Brigham, has transformed his life and brought hope to thousands awaiting similar procedures.
Andrews, who had end-stage kidney disease, was previously on dialysis for three days a week. The pig kidney, transplanted in January, allowed him to regain his energy and vitality. He could perform daily activities like cooking and walking his dog, things he struggled with before the transplant. The kidney functioned well for 271 days before being removed due to declining performance. Andrews' remarkable journey caught the attention of the Boston Celtics, who invited him to throw out the first pitch at TD Garden in June 2025. This procedure, while still experimental, offers new hope for the nearly 90,000 people in the US waiting for a human kidney transplant. Mass General Brigham plans to perform more such transplants later this year.
Tim Andrews' pig kidney transplant, while not a permanent solution, has shown promising results. It has improved his quality of life and sparked hope for others awaiting kidney transplants. As research continues, more patients may benefit from this innovative procedure.
