Queens dad thanks doctors after receiving first pancreas transplant on Long Island
MANHASSET, Long Island (WABC) -- A Queens man is the first recipient of a pancreas transplant on Long Island, a procedure doctors say can significantly improve quality of life and longevity for patients with serious health conditions.
Carlyle Preudhomme Jr. underwent surgery at North Shore University Hospital in May, receiving both a kidney and a pancreas during a 10-hour transplant procedure.
The 47-year-old father had been battling Type 1 diabetes and adrenal failure.
Preudhomme, who has worked with major hip-hop artists, said his medical condition forced him to put his music career on hold.
"I just want to be back to normal, and it's coming faster than I thought," Preudhomme said.
Doctors at Northwell Health said receiving a kidney and pancreas simultaneously can have a significant impact on patients' lives.
"A simultaneous kidney and pancreas transplant can literally double somebody's life span," said Dr. Vinay Nair, medical director of Northwell's Center for Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation.
On Tuesday, Preudhomme met with and thanked the doctors who performed the procedure.
"It was evident he was the perfect person because he had this vibrant sense of life, enthusiastic and you can tell he's resilient," Nair said.
Prior to the transplant, Preudhomme's organs were functioning below 5%.
"In the case of most individuals undergoing a pancreas transplant so you get a kidney and a pancreas together," said Dr. Niraj Desai, director of Northwell's Center for Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation.
Doctors said about 3,000 people in the United States are waiting for a combined kidney-pancreas transplant.
Just a few months after surgery, Preudhomme is no longer on dialysis and has normal blood sugar levels, according to his doctors. Looking ahead, he said he is grateful for the second chance he has been given.
"I feel famous...I'm so appreciative," Preudhomme said.
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