Bernie Kosar has successful liver transplant, is grateful for support of fans & the Browns, friend says – Terry Pluto
CLEVELAND, Ohio – Bernie Kosar had a successful liver transplant on Monday at University Hospital according to Jim McCarthy, a close friend of the legendary Browns quarterback who also has handled some of his appearances.
“Bernie went in about 5 a.m. and came out around 10 in the morning,” McCarthy told me. “Everything went as well as we could have possibly hoped.”
Kosar had been awaiting a transplant for several days. He developed a lot of internal bleeding. It was very concerning, with the bleeding coming from his mouth and nose.
As long as he was bleeding, no transplant could be done.
“A few days ago, I didn’t know if we’d ever get to this point of him getting the transplant,” said McCarthy. “Saturday morning, the bleeding finally stopped. By Saturday afternoon, they began preparing him for the transplant.”
The 61-year-old Kosar endured several difficult procedures as doctors worked to stop the bleeding.
“The next 48 hours are critical,” said McCarthy. “We have to make sure there is no rejection and no infections.”
McCarthy stressed how Kosar has been lifted by the prayers and good wishes from fans.
“I know it kept him going through those really hard times,” he said. “Bernie watched the pregame tribute the Browns had for him Sunday. That meant so much. He really appreciates all the Haslams (Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam) have done for him. I know they were in touch last night. Bernie is very grateful to everyone.”
- Related: Kosar provides update on social media after Monday’s surgery.
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