University Health Transplant Institute

09/12/2025

On September 5, Julian Ontiveros received the call that would change everything—a liver was available. After months of uncertainty, prayers, and emotional highs and lows, Julian finally underwent transplant surgery, giving him not just relief from waiting, but a second chance at life.

Julian’s story is more than a medical journey. He is a proud Gulf War veteran, a devoted husband, and a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose presence has carried his family through every chapter of life. His strength has been tested time and again—surviving kidney cancer and facing liver failure with the same courage and resolve that have defined his life.

At every moment, his wife Maria stood by his side, becoming his voice, his anchor, and his Champion. To her, this moment is nothing short of “a lifetime of gratitude.”

Julian is thankful for the selfless donor who gave the ultimate gift of life. Thankful for the surgeons, nurses, and transplant team who dedicated themselves to his care. Thankful for every prayer, every act of kindness, and every person who helped share his story in the hope of finding a living donor.

Although Julian’s miracle came through a deceased donor, his family remains deeply committed to advocating for living donation and the power one decision can have. Because a single choice can rewrite the story for someone still waiting.

To learn more and register as an organ donor, visit: DonateLifeTexas.org/Champion4Life.

09/10/2025

Flu season is here, and now is the time to protect yourself and your loved ones. 💙

Dr. Jason Bowling, chief epidemiologist at University Health, says flu is more than just a bad cold. It can cause pneumonia, heart problems, hospitalization – and even death.
Dr. Bowling and the CDC recommend a flu shot for nearly everyone 6 months and older, including children, seniors, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems. Research shows vaccination can cut the risk of hospitalization by 40%.

Getting your shot now helps your body build protection before flu cases peak.

University Health is offering free flu shots at our drive-thru locations. Schedule yours today: https://ow.ly/tEJh50WUQmT.

09/09/2025

In honor of this Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month, we’re sharing the inspiring story of Dot Delarosa. When she was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis she was told she had only two to five years to live. With her lung capacity down to just 20%, Dot was referred for a lung transplant.

In 2010, Dot received her gift of life through transplant, and every year since, she celebrates her “lung-iversary” with gratitude and hope. Today, she devotes her life to supporting patients and giving back to the community, turning her journey into a beacon of encouragement for others.

This Pulmonary Fibrosis Month, we encourage you to watch Dot’s journey in this special two-part video series—a powerful reminder of resilience, generosity and the gift of second chances.

09/08/2025

What an incredible day at McAllister Park for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Great Strides 5K Walk here in San Antonio! The turnout was inspiring, and the energy from our community was truly powerful. Together, we walked in support of those living with cystic fibrosis and in pursuit of a future where everyone can breathe a little easier.

Thank you to everyone who showed up, donated, or cheered us on. Your support brings us one step closer to a cure.

09/08/2025

Thinking about your next career move? What if you could spend a year expanding your skills and becoming an expert in a field that truly makes a difference? ❤️

After 16 years in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), one of our incredible nurses, Jennifer Block, decided to take on a new challenge and applied for our Trauma Nurse Fellowship Program.

She gained not just advanced clinical skills, but also a broader understanding of trauma care: “The experience will make you a stronger, more well-rounded nurse.”

If you’re ready to push your boundaries, expand your critical thinking and make a real impact on patients' lives, our Trauma Nurse Fellowship Program is for you. Learn more and apply today, the deadline is October 3: https://ow.ly/svgs50WTul5.

09/05/2025

A huge day for our community! 🎉 We were honored to join Judson ISD today for the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the launch of the University Health Judson Health Center.

This is more than just a new building; it's a significant milestone for our community. Together with Judson ISD, we’re providing accessible, high-quality primary care services for the entire community, from physical exams to chronic illness management.

We are grateful to our partners at Judson ISD, as well as Mayor Janesha Grider, City of Kirby, and Mayor Mary Dennis, City of Live Oak, for their visionary leadership. We're proud to work together to improve the good health of our neighbors in Bexar County!

The new University Health Judson ISD Health Center is now open and ready to serve you! Learn more about our services: https://ow.ly/riXI50WShbi.

09/05/2025

“Do you want to be an organ donor?” It’s a simple question the DMV asks every day — and it has the power to change lives.

September is National DMV Appreciation Month, and we want to thank DMVs and Driver License Partners for helping more than 165 million people across the country say YES to organ, eye, and tissue donation.

We’re grateful for the role they play in making life-saving conversations possible. Learn more at DonateLife.net.

09/04/2025

Please join us in giving a round of applause to our very own Leni Kirkman for receiving the San Antonio Business Journal's C-Suite Professional Award today! 🎉

Leni is our Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Communications & Corporate Affairs Officer. For the past 25 years, she's been a driving force behind our efforts to promote our University Health brand, grow patient volumes and make sure our reputation for compassionate care is recognized far and wide.

Her passion for ensuring our patients' journeys are aligned with our mission and values is truly inspiring. Congratulations, Leni, on this well-deserved honor!

09/04/2025

A medical milestone gives new hope to colon cancer patients in need of a lifesaving liver transplant.

Just a couple of years ago, Otila Castillo was living a healthy, active life. But during the holidays in 2022, she began experiencing stomach and back pain. What seemed like a small health concern turned out to be colon cancer.

Despite two years of chemotherapy, the cancer spread to her liver. That’s when Otila was referred to University Health — and became the first patient at our Transplant Institute to undergo a rare and lifesaving procedure: a liver transplant for colorectal cancer that had spread to the liver. The surgical team made history, with support from Dr. Jonathan Cullen, one of our abdominal and hepatobiliary surgeons pictured here.

This lifesaving transplant was only possible because of the extraordinary courage of two living donors. Otila’s niece, Victoria, stepped forward out of love for her aunt, and through a living donor liver exchange, her gift made this surgery possible. At the same time, altruistic donor Mallarie gave a part of her liver to help a complete stranger. She originally came forward to help a child in need, but when that child was transplanted, she chose not to walk away. Instead, she gave selflessly so another life could be saved. Her gift helped launch Otila’s successful transplant — one that will open doors for future cancer patients facing what once seemed impossible.

Mallarie explained her decision simply, “I would do it again in a heartbeat. If I’m able to be on this earth and be healthy and happy, and I can potentially help someone else be that as well — I want to do that.”

Today, Otila is living proof of what happens when innovation, medicine, and humanity come together. She shared, “I’m so grateful for a second chance at life — more life with my loved ones. How can you put a price on that? It’s unbelievable I’m here.”

Learn more at UniversityHealth.com/LivingLiverDonation.

09/03/2025

What would you say to the person whose decision to donate part of their liver saved the life of you or your spouse? Two couples recently found their tears of gratitude said more than words when they met during a celebration of our University Health Transplant Institute’s living liver donors. 💙💚

When Santiago Robles wasn’t a match for fiancé Elena Perez, he agreed to give to an unknown person in exchange for Elena receiving her transplant. It was the same for Alejandra Restrepo who offered to donate for her husband, Luis Arrieta Mendez. In the end, Alejandra was a match for Elena, and Santiago was compatible with Luis. All four are hoping their love and trust help to spread the important message: living organ donors can make miracles happen. They recover quickly and their gift gives others a chance to live a full life.

Learn more about becoming a living organ donor: https://ow.ly/xrca50WQH1m.

09/03/2025

Join us for our next Adult Transplant Support Group this Thursday, September 4, from 3:30 to 4:30 PM at University Hospital in the Education Conference Room on the second floor of Rio Tower.

Our support group offers a welcoming space to share your journey, gain insight from others, and build meaningful connections within the transplant community.

Sessions are held on the first Thursday of every month. We look forward to seeing you there!

09/02/2025

This August, we came together to celebrate National Multiethnic Donor Awareness Month with our Diverse Desserts & Blood Drive event at Texas Organ Sharing Alliance!

From savoring sweet treats from around the world to winning fun prizes, guests also discovered how the generosity of diverse, multiethnic donors transforms and saves lives.

A heartfelt thank you to our amazing partners—Texas Organ Sharing Alliance, DONATE LIFE TEXAS, South Texas Blood & Tissue, San Antonio Eye Bank, Methodist Hospital Specialty and Transplant, Transplants for Children and NMDP—for making this celebration possible.

You can be part of this life-saving mission, too. Register your decision to Donate Life at DonateLifeTexas.org/Champion4Life.

09/02/2025

University Health Transplant Institute is proud to once again support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at this year’s Great Strides 5K Walk, and we invite you to join us this Saturday, September 6, 2025!

This annual event brings the community together to raise awareness and critical funds to help find a cure for cystic fibrosis. By participating, you’ll help advance research and care that can change the lives of thousands affected by this disease.

Registration is now open—learn more and sign up here! https://fundraise.cff.org/sanantonio25

09/01/2025

FREE flu shot! It's quick, easy and essential for your health. 💪

Join us for any of our drive-up events:

Saturday, Sept. 13
8 a.m. - Noon
Precinct 1 Satellite Office

Saturday, Sept. 20
8 a.m. - Noon
Freeman Coliseum

Saturday, Oct. 11
8 a.m. - Noon
Dub Farris Athletic Complex

Saturday, Oct. 25
8 a.m. - Noon
Gustafson Stadium

While these community events are open to the public and free to attend, appointments are required and will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Schedule your appointment now: https://universityhealth.com/events/flu-drive?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=flu_drive_2025&utm_content=facebook_social_media_flu_drive_promo_082525

08/31/2025

Transplant Clinic will be closed Monday, September 1st, in observance of Labor Day. Although our clinic is closed for the holiday, we have team members on call 24/7. If you are in need of medical assistance, please contact NurseLink at 210-358-3000.

08/29/2025

Looking for a health care partner you can trust for your whole family? Look no further than our University Health Judson ISD Health Center!

Located near Wagner High School, our center offers a comprehensive one-stop shop for primary care. From chronic disease management and annual check-ups to sports physicals and even mental health screenings, we’re here to care for your entire health spectrum. ❤️

Our clinics, led by medical director Dr. Leo Lopez, have evolved from school-based centers to full community health centers open year-round. We are proud to serve not just students and staff, but their families and all our neighbors in the community. We accept most insurance plans and are ready to welcome you.

Ready to book an appointment? Learn more and find us here: https://ow.ly/5lYK50WOggW.

08/28/2025

For years, Victorino Valdez Herrera, 74, lived with the daily fatigue and shortness of breath that came with atrial fibrillation, known as AFib. His irregular heart rhythm placed him at higher risk for stroke and heart failure.

After multiple procedures failed to bring relief, Mr. Valdez placed his trust in our cardiologists, Dr. Dawn Hui and Dr. Hemal Nayak. They have teamed up to use the Convergent procedure for patients that have AFib that doesn’t respond to other treatments. The two-step, minimally invasive process combines surgical and catheter-based techniques.

The result: Mr. Valdez’s AFib symptoms are gone. Today he is back to enjoying long walks and family activities. He’s an example of how teamwork and advanced medical care is helping us change lives. 💙

Univision San Antonio broadcast a compelling Spanish-language story that tells of Mr. Valdez’s journey and explains the procedure: https://ow.ly/MY5Q50WNEq6.

08/28/2025

Over a year ago, Tejano music artist Rick Balderrama gave his younger brother Ricardo “Richie” Balderrama the greatest gift of all — a chance to live, laugh, and dream again. With 70% of his liver, he gave Richie not just renewed health, but renewed hope.

Richie’s journey began 11 years ago during what was supposed to be a routine physical. Instead, doctors found cirrhosis caused by fatty liver disease. In 2015, he was told a transplant would eventually be necessary, but nothing could have prepared him for the emotional rollercoaster that came next — a cancer diagnosis in December 2023, followed by a near-fatal complication during surgery just a month later.

"It was one of the most frightening and emotional moments of my life,” Richie shared, but he never gave up — and neither did Rick.

Rick stepped forward without hesitation. “He’s my brother. So I stepped up,” Rick said. “It took me six months. I lost 33 pounds… and thank God, I was able to qualify.”

On May 21, 2024, Richie underwent a life-saving liver transplant. Today, Richie is celebrating a new lease on life. “My journey has been filled with trials,” Richie reflects, “but also with faith, miracles, and the unshakable belief that God is good.”

Their incredible journey inspired Rick’s heartfelt new single “Hermanito Mio” — a beautiful tribute to the unbreakable bond they share. Watch the music video here: https://youtu.be/Tkv01YaqWV4

“We’re doing great. He’s doing very good,” Rick said with joy in his voice.

Rick’s love for his brother and Richie’s strength show us what’s possible when faith and family lead the way.

08/27/2025

It was wonderful to see so many people taking proactive steps for their health, from checking blood pressure and cholesterol to speaking with our pharmacists at the community health fair at our Robert B. Green campus.

We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve our community and help you stay well. 💙 If you missed this event, stay tuned for future community health opportunities!

Looking for an easier way to manage your prescriptions? You’re in luck. Our convenient pharmacy services are designed to save you time and hassle: https://ow.ly/8TyE50WNcz1.

08/27/2025

This past Friday we witnessed something extraordinary —two living liver donor paired exchanges, bringing together eight people forever connected by the gift of life.

What began with love, courage, and selflessness became a celebration of hope. Donors stepped forward for their loved ones—and even strangers—while recipients embraced a second chance at life.

It was an emotional afternoon filled with tears, hugs, and gratitude as families met face-to-face for the very first time. Moments like these remind us why living donation matters—and how one “yes” can change the world.

To our donors, recipients, families, and our entire transplant team—thank you for showing us the power of humanity, dedication and strength.

08/26/2025

When Elena was diagnosed with liver cancer, her husband Santiago called donating part of his liver “the ultimate act of love.” What they didn’t expect was to become part of a living donor liver paired exchange at University Health—saving not just one life, but two.

Santiago’s liver went to a stranger, while another donor stepped up to save Elena’s life.

“I don’t have disease or cancer in my liver anymore. There was such relief,” Elena shared.

Months later, they returned to University Hospital to meet the patients and donors who made their survival possible.

“It was one of the scariest parts of my life, but one of the most rewarding,” Santiago said. “Seeing the outcome… it’s a blessing.”

Now, Elena and Santiago are focused on their future together, grateful for each day.

A rare donor exchange involving strangers saved a San Antonio couple's lives through a liver transplant.

08/25/2025

Youth sports are a blast, but concussions are a serious concern. Is your family ready? 🧠

Our latest blog post is a game-changer for every sports parent. We break down the most common concussion symptoms and give you practical tips to protect your young athlete. From making sure their gear fits to knowing when to see a doctor, we've got you covered.

Don't wait until an injury happens. Arm yourself with the knowledge to keep your kid safe on the field! Read the full guide here: https://ow.ly/6OV150WKrO3.

08/22/2025

A surprising 80% of strokes are preventable 🤯, putting the power to protect your health right in your hands.

Learn how to take control of your well-being by making simple yet powerful choices. ✨

Want to better understand your own risk? Take our free stroke risk assessment to get personalized tips for a healthier life: https://ow.ly/bPQM50WKqZv.

08/21/2025

With University Health's Retama Hospital more than 50% complete, the 650 dedicated builders are making amazing progress! Every day, they're pouring concrete and welding steel, and you can feel their pride in this vital work. 💪

"It's a passion,” says Luciano Gonzalez, who manages the team that operates a massive 240-foot crane.

Luciano already has a plan for when the hospital opens its doors in 2027. He'll drive by with his family and proudly tell them: "See that? I helped build it."

We're incredibly grateful to every worker for bringing University Health Retama Hospital to life, and we can't wait to open our doors to care for the community.

08/20/2025

Not sure if your little one is too sick to go to school? 😷

Here’s a checklist from Dr. Benjamin Balderman, a University Health pediatrician: 🧑⚕️

• A fever over 100°F that doesn't go away.
• A sore throat that has lasted more than two days.
• An uncontrolled cough.
• A widespread rash.
• Severe ear pain.
• Nausea or diarrhea.

Children should be symptom-free for 24 hours before going back!

And, yes, kids sometime fake being sick. An emotional or social problem at school could be the reason. Talking to your pediatrician can help.

08/18/2025

We were so impressed by the young professionals who joined us this summer for University Health’s Junior Volunteer Program! Thank you for your incredible commitment and dedication. We loved watching you learn from our amazing team as you explored a career in health care! ✨

Ready to make a difference? Explore our volunteer opportunities and find the perfect fit for you: https://ow.ly/GpYN50WGKP7.

08/15/2025

When Melroy Koehler was diagnosed with liver cancer, he weighed more than 300 pounds. Facing a liver transplant and needing weight-loss surgery, he was in a seemingly impossible situation. The two procedures are almost never done at the same time. But our incredible liver transplant team wasn't deterred.

They decided to do something innovative: perform both surgeries at once. And it worked! Melroy's life was saved, and today, he's thriving. His story of hope and resilience was recently shared with more than 6,000 transplant experts from around the world at the World Transplant Congress in San Francisco.

We're so proud of our University Health Transplant Institute team and of Melroy for his incredible journey! 👏

Watch Melroy's story to see why we've been named the #1 liver transplant program in the nation for three consecutive years: https://youtu.be/KROQ0xP_wHA.

08/14/2025

University Health Surgery Center at Morgan's MAC isn't just another clinic, it's a truly inclusive space designed from the ground up to serve patients with special needs and disabilities. 🎉

With gentle colors, calming white noise and staff trained in inclusion, we’re transforming the surgical experience. 💙

Our goal is to make procedures, from dental cleanings to specialized surgeries, less stressful. Discover how we're providing accessible and compassionate care for those who need it most: https://ow.ly/LOJa50WGjZB.

08/13/2025

We're committed to creating a healing environment for our community, and we're honored to share that we've been voted among the top 20 "Most Beautiful" Hospitals in the U.S. by Soliant. 🎉

It's a huge nod to our SaludArte: Art of Healing Program for filling our halls with unique art that celebrates the vibrant culture of San Antonio and beyond. We'd also like to thank the designers who create our modern spaces and the teams who keep our facilities clean.

Designing a beautiful hospital that is #14 in the nation is just one more way we’re thinking beyond… for you!

08/11/2025

📱 How much screen time is too much for kids? Between cell phones, video games and social media, many kids are plugged in for hours every day and, let’s be honest, adults are also! But did you know that teens who spend more than 3 hours a day on social media are twice as likely to show signs of depression and anxiety?

Dr. Amy Cobb recently spoke at a KSAT Community Town Hall alongside the CEO of Clarity Child Guidance Center to talk about how screen time affects children’s health and development.

She shared some simple ways families can create healthier screen habits at home, like:
✅ Setting up screen-free zones (like during dinner or bedtime)
✅ Making a family digital agreement
✅ Prioritizing time for real-life connections
It’s about finding balance and protecting our kids’ mental wellness and physical health. 💙

Click here to watch the segment https://ow.ly/mEHf50WE5bz

08/08/2025

We're sending the biggest birthday wishes (a little belated!) to the amazing Bella, who recently celebrated her 8th birthday. 🎉🎉🎉

Bella received a life-saving liver transplant at our University Health Transplant Institute when she was just a baby. Bella is now celebrating 7 years post-transplant! She will be starting 3rd grade and loves expressing herself through art. Seeing Bella continue to thrive reminds us of the incredible impact of organ transplantation. We look forward to sharing more of her milestones with you! ❤️

08/06/2025

New transformational technology is being used at University Health to treat patients with a serious heart condition. ❤️

We are the first heart center in South Texas to offer a revolutionary procedure – called the EVOQUE system - to treat patients with severe tricuspid valve disease. Our cardiac specialists performed this minimally invasive procedure as an alternative to open-heart surgery. Just one more way we’re using the latest technology to improve our patients’ health. Read more: https://www.universityhealth.com/news/first-of-a-kind-heart-valve-procedure-in-south-texas?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=structural_heart_and_valve_disease_center&utm_content=facebook_structural_heart_and_valve_disease_center_newsroom_evoque_080625.

08/05/2025

The sweetest sound of victory! 🎉🔔 Our incredible young patient, Luke, rang the bell three times to mark the triumphant end of his cancer treatment at University Health. This powerful moment, surrounded by his family, friends and our dedicated pediatric oncology care team, is a testament to Luke’s incredible resilience.

The tradition of ringing the bell symbolizes the end of a long journey, the strength it took to fight and the beginning of a healthy new chapter. Let’s all send our biggest congratulations to keep cheering him on! 💪❤️

08/04/2025

We're growing to serve you better! The Corpus Christi Clinic - University Health Transplant Institute relocates today to a more spacious facility at 1521 St. Staples Street and renamed Corpus Christi Specialties. This move significantly increases our capacity, allowing us to help more liver and kidney transplant patients not just in Corpus Christi, but throughout the broader region… with more specialty care to come! 💚💙

We're committed to providing more life-saving options closer to home for our patients. Discover more at https://ow.ly/uL5k50WzzfH.

08/01/2025

A first-of-its-kind procedure is bringing new hope to countless patients with congenital heart disease across South Texas, thanks to a milestone achievement by University Hospital. ❤️

Our Structural Heart and Pediatric Cardiology teams have successfully performed the first Harmony™ Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve (TPV) replacement in South Texas. This procedure, led by Dr. Muhammad Hammadah and Dr. Jessica Heibel, is a game-changer for patients who have traditionally undergone multiple major surgeries.

By being the first hospital in South Texas to offer this therapy, University Hospital is not just performing procedures—we are thinking beyond the standard of heart care and offering new advances in treatment.

Dr. Hammadah agreed, “We are committed to bringing the most advanced therapies to our community, ensuring they have access to treatments that were previously unavailable.”

Learn more about this incredible achievement and the expert team behind it here: https://ow.ly/t8l950WyKjI.

07/30/2025

We have some great news for our patients and community! Last night, the Bexar County Hospital District Board of Managers unanimously approved our recommendation to purchase the 45-acre CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital campus in the Medical Center, which closed in April.

The location and size of the CHRISTUS Medical Center property and the timing of this opportunity could not be better. We're expanding as quickly as we can to try to keep up with the growing demand for our services. 🏥

This is truly an unprecedented time of growth for University Health, as construction on our two new community hospitals continues and remains on track to open in 2027. 🏗️ And our two new public health and multi-specialty health centers will open before the end of the year. 🎊 All of these new locations will help us fulfill our critically important mission and strengthen our ability to recruit and retain top medical experts to care for our community.⚕️

It is important for our community to know that this purchase will be funded with existing resources and will not require a tax rate increase. To learn more, visit https://ow.ly/592V50Wxvra.

07/29/2025

This is a story that truly warms our hearts! ❤️

In July 2023, Portland State soccer player Cameron Lane made an incredible, life-saving decision: she donated 70% of her liver to her mother, Jamie, who was battling polycystic liver and kidney disease. This transformative transplant took place at our University Health Transplant Institute – recognized by INTERLINK Health Services as the nation’s #1 liver transplant program for three years in a row!

Jamie's journey continued with our nationally recognized Champion for Life program, helping her find another living donor for a successful kidney transplant. Cameron's act of love created ripples far beyond the OR; she returned to college soccer, became a passionate advocate for liver health and even ran the 2025 Boston Marathon as the American Liver Foundation’s National LIVEr Champion, raising more than $10k.

These women’s stories illustrate that one selfless choice can truly change everything.

Learn more about our living liver donor program: https://ow.ly/mYGN50WwRmG.