Amos Lane, DO

Amos Lane, DO, director of the Emergency Department at WVU Medicine Princeton and Bluefield Community Hospitals was diagnosed a few years ago with autoimmune hepatitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis, both serious chronic diseases that affect the liver and bile ducts, respectively. After dealing with the severity of his conditions for several years – which included extreme fatigue, weight loss, and overall decline in health – Dr. Lane’s failing health led him to stop practicing clinical medicine in July 2022.

Fortunately, that’s not the end of the story, it’s just the beginning.

With her husband battling end-stage liver failure, Amy Lane orchestrated an all-out appeal for a liver donor for Amos. Enter Matt Adams, a friend of the Lanes and director of facilities at PCH, who selflessly volunteered to be the donor. Dr. Lane had a successful transplant surgery on July 6, and I’m happy to report that he and Matt are doing well.

As you can see, this story does not lack heroes. Dr. Lane’s determination and courage are amazing. He battled to keep serving his patients in the emergency room until the ravages of his illness would not let him continue. Amy Lane was great at not only rallying support by creating T-shirts to honor her husband, but she also led the search for a liver donor. And what can I say about Matt Adams? He is truly a special person. He has given his friend a gift beyond words and beyond measure – it is literally a new lease on life.

I like to say that WVU Medicine is all about family, and this is a great example. We support and care for one another at the system level, hospital level, departmental level, individual level, and even as part of each hospital and clinic’s communities, as many of our patients include friends, neighbors, and relatives.

The photos below really bring the message home. From leadership, to his colleagues in the Emergency Department, PCH employees proudly wear the T-shirts Amy created. They say “In this family, nobody fights alone” in honor of Dr. Lane. The shirts also include a green ribbon, the symbol for liver transplant awareness.

I know Dr. Lane and his wife are overwhelmed with gratitude, and I want to let everyone know that I am, too. I’m really glad to share this story today, and wish Dr. Lane and Matt speedy and smooth recoveries and nothing but the best in the days to come!