Devon Henry

Devon Henry, 34, woke up on a Sunday afternoon, twenty-four hours after his liver transplant, feeling a surge of determination. He made a bet with his surgeon, Dr. Foster, that he’d be the first patient to wake up earlier than expected after surgery. His journey to this moment had been filled with unexpected challenges and lessons.

It all began in California when the diagnosis of cirrhosis hit him hard. Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease that occurs when healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, preventing the liver from functioning properly. This is typically caused by excessive alcohol consumption. As his health declined, the symptoms took their toll. Jaundice turned his skin a sickly yellow, and he required help with basic needs such as showering and going to the bathroom. Relying on his wife, mother, and nurses was a humbling experience.

Months of hospital visits culminated in a life-changing phone call: a match had been found. Relief washed over him; someone believed he deserved a second chance and for that he was grateful. Devon vowed to stay sober while waiting for the transplant and has honored that promise since.

The transplant was more than just a medical procedure; it marked a crucial turning point in his life. The nursing staff and doctors became his support system along with his wife. Dr. Thudi, with her strict yet caring nature, highlighted the importance of every step in his recovery—especially the need for a proper bowel movement, a detail he would never forget. Valerie and Lori from physical and occupational therapy pushed him to his limits, while Mark from physical therapy became a trusted ally in rebuilding his strength.

Life after the transplant felt like a rebirth. He often says he was born on the day he received his new liver, August 19, 2023. After Devon’s operation, the nursing staff were tremendously helpful, especially during the time he spent in recovery. He was homeless for a while, but they held a bed for him until he could move into his own home and feel comfortable again. “They knew their stuff—very straightforward and always had my best interests at heart. Now, with my new liver, my life has transformed for the better, and the home therapy and care I’m receiving have been fantastic,” commented Devon.

He attends Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and started a military-focused AA group at Fort Sam Houston, driven by a mission to help others facing addiction and to change perceptions around mental health in the military.

Retiring from the Army in September brought a realization that this journey had renewed his mind and spirit, shifting his focus to making a meaningful impact on others’ lives. He was determined to guide those struggling with addiction and advocate for better mental health support in the military community.

For anyone considering a transplant or battling addiction, his message was clear: reach out and ask for help. Life can change in ways you never expected, and a second chance is always within reach.