People Finder
How a liver transplant transformed my life and mission
LIFE-SAVING, LIFE-CHANGING Isabella Charlotte Arlt, a junior at St. Agnes Academy, was diagnosed with liver failure at age 15. Receiving a liver transplant saved her life. Now, she is working to honor the donor’s legacy by sharing her story and advocating for organ donation.
Nearly two years ago, I was like any other high schooler – playing soccer and field hockey, tackling freshman year, and looking forward to my 15th birthday. I pictured a day filled with cake, selfies, and friends. Instead, I was hit with something I never saw coming: a diagnosis of liver failure. In an instant, my world flipped upside down.
The days that followed were filled with an abundance of tests and procedures and endless, agonizing waiting. There were dark moments – unimaginable fears that entered my mind. Ironically, at the darkest moment is when I realized I was not alone. As I lay in pain, I was surrounded by overwhelming support. No matter the time or the day, someone was there to support me. The beauty was that I did not need to look further than to my family, friends, and the amazing team at Texas Children’s Hospital. This served as my arsenal of hope. I was lifted by the optimism conveyed by this support group. After what felt like three years but was only three weeks, I heard the two words that would unburden me: Liver Transplant.
Someone who I’d never meet was about to selflessly save my life. This profound act of kindness inspired me to embrace a greater purpose: Raising awareness about organ donation and fostering a deeper sense of empathy that transforms others.
Organ donation is far from a mere medical procedure. It is the consummate act of generosity. I am here today because of an organ donor. I will never be able to thank the person who gave me the ultimate gift, but I am committed to honoring her legacy by making my mission to raise awareness about organ donation.
To be named the 2025 American Liver Foundation’s Pediatric Liver Champion is a humbling honor. It is a chance to speak for those who cannot do so, and to remind the world of the difference one simple decision can make. Each donor can save up to eight lives. We can help everyone have the chance to have a 16th birthday and many more. Take a moment to register as an organ donor and leave a legacy of compassion and generosity. By giving life, you contribute to a legacy that makes a lasting impact on the world.
Want to be a Buzz Kid? Email approximately 350 words, a high-resolution photo and caption to [email protected].
Want more buzz like this? Sign up for our Morning Buzz emails.
To leave a comment, please log in or create an account with The Buzz Magazines, Disqus, Facebook, or Twitter. Or you may post as a guest.
