Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas (DSMCUT) hosted a historic “Gift of Life” celebration on April 24. The event marked a monumental achievement for the Abdominal Transplant Center — the completion of its 100th kidney transplant — which occurred in January 2026. This milestone represents 100 new chances at life for patients across Central Texas.
“What makes this program so special is how patient-centered it is. We support patients and their families every step of the way,” said Dr. Nicole Turgeon, Professor, Division Chief, Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery and Perioperative Care. “We also have a strong academic partnership that helps us keep learning, discovering and improving, all while staying focused on great outcomes. Most importantly, transplants truly change lives. They give people freedom from dialysis and allow them to get back to living their lives, whether that’s working, traveling or just feeling like themselves again.”
The ceremony also featured a bell dedication and highlighted the history of Project Bell. Originally focused on cancer centers, Project Bell expanded in 2022 to provide “Bells of Hope” for solid organ transplant programs. DSMCUT was a pioneer in this expansion, becoming the first transplant center to receive the bell, to honor the unique journeys of donors and recipients.
The gathering brought together the patients, donors, families, and care teams whose courage and expertise made this achievement possible.
The heart of the event was the ringing of three dedicated bells, signifying the courage of the transplant community:
-
100th Recipient Bell: Rung by recipient Eduardo Denova.
-
Recipient Donor Bell: Rung by recipient Robert Hernandez.
-
Living Donor Bell: Rung by donor Mark Littlestar.
As the center looks toward the future, it remains committed to providing a high-quality Transplant System-of-Care, driving innovation through Dell Medical School and offering hope to all those in need of life-saving care.
“This milestone represents more than clinical achievement,” said Laura Fohn, President, DSMCUT. “It’s about restoring health, renewing hope and transforming lives.”
