After a Liver Transplant, Samerah Is More Determined Than Ever to Lead and Inspire

When the sudden onset of acute liver failure required Samerah to undergo an emergency liver transplant, the confident teen approached the complex procedure and challenging recovery with strength and optimism.

In a matter of days, 18-year-old Samerah went from an active, vibrant high schooler to a patient whose condition was so severe, she was put at the top of the liver transplant list. “Her eyes and skin were getting darker yellow. Her speech got a little slower. That was on a Monday. By Friday, she was unresponsive,” says Samerah’s mom, Starla, a Children’s nurse.

Samerah had developed acute liver failure, according to Children’s hepatologist Rene Romero, MD. “Unfortunately, we don’t really know the cause,” he says. “Kids can quickly go from very healthy to in danger of dying. So with Samerah, we knew we had to move fast. Fortunately, we were able to identify a liver donor within 24 hours of putting her on the list.”

Before the six-hour surgery, Samerah was confident, as always. “When the surgeon told us to say our goodbyes, I busted out crying because I didn’t know if I’d see her later. But she was like, ‘Mom, don’t cry. I’m fine.’ And that made me cry even harder because she’s stronger than me.”

Samerah’s tenacity made all the difference during her recovery. “She bounced back super quick. She was only in the hospital for three weeks, which is unheard of,” says Starla.

Today, Samerah is finishing up her senior year, working and spending time with friends, all while managing the tasks needed to maintain her health. A liver transplant was not part of her plan, but she’s determined to use her experience for good.

“I’m thinking of being a motivational speaker, going to schools,” she says. “I want to tell kids that your world can stop at any minute, so don't take anything for granted.”