A Life-Changing Call

Shortly after undergoing a routine ultrasound for an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), Jack Barry, Liver Champion of American Liver Foundation’s 2026 Liver Life Walk Boston, received a phone call from his primary care physician. While the screening showed no aneurysm, it did reveal an unexpected 5.1 cm mass on the right side of his liver—an incidental finding that would change everything.

This discovery led to a series of diagnostic procedures, including MRIs, scans, and two types of biopsies, ultimately resulting in a diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma—liver cancer. Jack was told that there is a cure for liver cancer: transplantation. Following an emotional period, and with unwavering support from his wife, son, sister, and brother-in-law, he began the pre-transplant evaluation process with the dedicated team at Lahey Hospital and Medical Center. As part of his treatment, he underwent Y-90 (Yttrium-90) radioembolization to reduce the tumor size.

As Jack prepared for transplant, he developed a personal plan rooted in faith, trust in his medical team, and a commitment to both mental and physical health. He stayed active, adopted healthy eating habits, and maintained a walking routine twice daily. Once listed on the transplant waiting list, he faced one of the most difficult phases—waiting. Determined and hopeful, he held onto the belief that he could overcome this challenge.

On April 18, 2024, that hope became reality when he received the call he had been waiting for: a liver was available. Jack’s transplant at Lahey Hospital and Medical Center was made possible by a highly skilled and compassionate team. Throughout his journey—from surgery to recovery—he experienced exceptional care, kindness, and unwavering support from the entire staff.

Today, Jack feels profoundly blessed and forever grateful for the gift of life provided by his donor. He continues to honor that gift by praying for his donor and offering his deepest compassion to the donor’s family.

It has been written: Transplantation is one of life’s greatest challenges & among the rewards is LIFE ITSELF…

-Jack Barry, Liver transplant April 19, 2024