“I will always be eternally grateful to Dr. Geffner and all the exceptional healthcare professionals at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center involved in my care.”
When Maureen Puzio was diagnosed with end-stage renal failure in 1995 at age 38, her life quickly became defined by treatments, exhaustion and uncertainty, but she kept pushing forward despite the physical toll. “I was working right through it,” Maureen recalls. “But everything started happening quickly.”
As her condition progressed, Maureen’s nephrologist introduced her to a new and innovative program, the Renal and Pancreas Transplant Division, at what was then Saint Barnabas Medical Center, now Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC), as it offered simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplant, a new hope for patients facing complex diagnoses like hers.
“At the recommendation of my doctor, I was introduced to the program, and I said yes,” says Maureen. She went on to become one of the program’s earliest patients. “I remember I was patient number 11,” she said.
Before her transplant, Maureen met with transplant surgeon Stuart R. Geffner, MD, MS, MS-HCM, FACS, Chairman and Surgeon-in-Chief of the Department of Surgery at CBMC, a moment that left a lasting impression. “He had the ability to give hope where very little existed and a sense of peace that overwhelmed me,” she said. “I left that meeting with complete trust and total confidence in Dr. Geffner and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center as a whole.”
“When this program was first introduced, we were building something that offered patients a new kind of hope. Maureen was one of the early patients who trusted that vision, and her outcome, speaks to how impactful that innovation has been,” shares Dr. Geffner.
Soon after, Maureen underwent a simultaneous kidney and pancreas transplant, an experience that would transform every aspect of her life.
“The miracle of transplantation truly gave me a second chance,” she said. “I was blessed with freedom from daily insulin injections, weekly dialysis treatments, routine medical dependency and the fear of further complications.”
Dr. Geffner, who performed Maureen’s kidney and pancreas transplant in 1996, says her journey reflects the long-term impact transplantation can have on patients’ lives.
“Simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplantation is one of the most transformative procedures we offer patients. It not only removes the need for dialysis, but it also eliminates insulin dependencies, restoring a level of independence many patients haven’t experienced in years,” he says. “Maureen’s outcome is exactly what we hope for. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing her decades down the line doing so well.”
Maureen was able to return to the life she had once put on hold. She continued her work as a senior financial analyst at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and Rutgers University, while also becoming more involved in her community.
“With my renewed energy and mobility, I was free to engage in substantial daily activities and new adventures,” she shares.
Maureen dedicates her time to organizations supporting children and animals and became an associate with the Felician Sisters of North America, a role she continues to this day. Beyond professional and volunteer work, she embraced the simple moments that once felt out of reach.
“It allowed me to enjoy so many memorable social activities with friends and family,” she said.
Nearly 30 years later, Maureen continues to reflect on the profound impact her transplant has had, not only on her health, but on her outlook on life. “My second chance at life has led me to a deeper appreciation of life and to never again take anything for granted,” she said. “My perspective remains rooted in gratitude and resilience. It truly opened my eyes.”
Maureen also remains deeply grateful for the care team that supported her throughout her journey. “I will always be eternally grateful to Dr. Geffner and all the exceptional healthcare professionals at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center involved in my care,” she said. “Especially Nita Shah, MD, Luigi Bonomini, MD, and the late Shamkant Mulgaonkar, MD, then Chief of the Renal and Pancreas Transplant Division, who was an angel.”
In addition to her care team, Maureen holds a profound appreciation for the donor who made her transplant possible. “I am forever thankful to my beautiful ‘Donor Angel,’ who so selflessly and lovingly gave life back to me,” she said.
Today, almost 30 years later, Maureen is still going strong, living proof of the life-changing impact of transplantation and the power of compassionate care.
To register as an organ donor, visit registerme.org/cbmc. Learn more about the Renal and Pancreas Transplant Division at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.