Alcoholism and Liver Transplant: An Ethical Perspective

When diagnosed with serious liver diseases like cirrhosis, patients often grapple with the question of their 'deservingness' for a lifesaving liver transplant. This article explores the ethical implications of alcoholism in transplant eligibility and challenges the misconception that patients with alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) are less deserving of a treatment that could save their lives.

No One Is Less Deserving of Life

It is important to emphasize that no individual should be considered less deserving of a liver transplant simply because they have a history of alcoholism that led to liver cirrhosis. Every person's life is invaluable, and every chance at life should be esteemed equally, regardless of their past behaviors or illnesses.

Individuals afflicted with alcoholism may often feel that they are less deserving due to their own self-imposed shortcomings. However, in the grand scheme of things, all human beings are deserving of life. No one should be deprived of a chance at life based on factors, such as alcoholism, that they may not have been entirely in control of.

The Power of Guilt and Acceptance

When a person with alcoholism is diagnosed with cirrhosis, they often experience a profound sense of guilt and self-disappointment. These feelings of unworthiness can be overwhelming and may lead to a reluctance to seek or accept a liver transplant. One individual, after being diagnosed with cirrhosis and abstaining from alcohol for six months, was sent to Chapel Hill for liver transplant evaluation. Initially, they expressed a desire not to receive a transplant, believing they deserved a chance to die with dignity.

During this evaluation, they were asked, “So why do you want a liver transplant?” to which they responded, “I do not want a liver transplant. I am here because my doctor told me to come here and I always do what my doctor tells me. I would rather you give a liver to a young person rather than someone like me who has abused himself. My goal is to be shot dead by an irate husband as I jump out of his wife’s bedroom window at the age of 94 and I will take this liver with me.” This sentiment, while deeply personal, reflects a common struggle with guilt and a distorted view of one's own worth.

Healing and Reconciliation

Despite these feelings of unworthiness, many individuals find the courage to accept medical treatment and seek to make amends. The author of this article reflects on their journey of coping with alcoholism and its aftermath. Initially, the experience of receiving a liver and kidney transplant due to alcohol-induced liver damage was accompanied by a sense of guilt. However, the author understands that this guilt is a natural human response and not a legitimate basis for denying themselves the opportunity for life.

They acknowledge that alcoholism is a disease, much like any other medical condition. Instead of letting guilt consume them, the author has chosen to channel their energy into helping others and contributing positively to society. They volunteer at Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings, sharing their experiences and offering support to those struggling with addiction. Additionally, they engage in online support groups on platforms like Facebook, Quora, and other websites, aiming to provide guidance and encouragement to others.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice to accept a life-saving liver transplant should not be influenced by the nature of the underlying condition. Every human life is precious, and every individual is worthy of treatment and hope. By transcending the burden of guilt and embracing the power of recovery and community, individuals can find a renewed sense of self-worth and purpose.

As we move forward, it is essential to consider the ethical implications of transplant eligibility, ensuring that every patient, regardless of their past behaviors, receives fair and equal treatment.