A Wisconsin State Patrol lieutenant who has been living with chronic liver disease for more than a decade underwent a liver transplant surgery on Friday.
Emily Witkiewicz Phil Witkiewicz and his wife, Emily, shared the update with Mary Jo Ola after initially reaching out to spread the word about his need for a new liver.
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Witkiewicz was diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis 14 years ago. The couple discovered his condition after applying for life insurance while preparing for a growing family. His symptoms had worsened recently.
Emily said the surgery went well and expressed gratitude for the support they’ve received and the blessing of a new liver.
“It went amazing! He is hitting all his goals and has a long way to go, but I definitely just watched a miracle happen,” Emily shared with reporter Mary Jo Ola. “He is feeling good. He still has a long way to go, but he keeps saying, ‘I am just happy to be here.’”