Facing His Greatest Challenge
In May 2001, Dom faced a life-altering diagnosis: Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APML). The prognosis was daunting, with only a 40% chance of survival. Undeterred, Domenico placed his trust in the hematology team at Westmead Hospital and agreed to participate in a trial protocol called “ATRA-IDA-RUBISON.”
His faith was rewarded as he achieved remission without the need for a bone marrow transplant. Reflecting on this remarkable outcome, Domenico shares, “This year, I celebrate 23 years of remission. How good is that? Words cannot express my gratitude; in my heart, I say thank you every single day.”
Yet, the challenges didn’t end there. In his 40s, Domenico faced a new series of health issues, including Type 2 Diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and fatty liver disease (NASH). Once again, Westmead’s teams stepped in to provide life-changing support.
An Incredible Transformation
A pivotal moment in Domenico’s health journey came in 2016 when he joined a clinical trial at Westmead’s renowned Storr Liver Centre, led by Professor Jacob George. Dedicated to advancing research and treatment for liver diseases, the Storr Liver Centre is a global leader in its field, offering patients access to cutting-edge clinical trials and therapies.
The trial, focused on the use of Obeticholic acid to regenerate the liver, offered Domenico new hope. When he began the trial in January 2017, his health was in a dire state—he weighed 93.4 kg, had a BMI of 33.3, and was battling stage 3 liver disease.
Under the care of Professor George and the dedicated team at the Storr Liver Centre, Domenic’s health underwent a dramatic transformation. By 2018, his fibro scan score had improved significantly, dropping from 6.8 to 4.3, and by 2019, it was at an incredible 3.6. He lost over 10 kg, regained energy, and found his liver function restored to near-normal levels. “I lost over 10 kg, regained energy, and found my liver’s function significantly restored. I felt healthier than ever,” he shares.
The Storr Liver Centre’s holistic approach extended beyond liver health. During a routine ECG, arrhythmia was detected, leading to timely intervention by Dr. Christopher Flood. A stent surgery followed, likely preventing a heart attack—a testament to the centre’s collaborative and patient-centered care.
The centre is not only a beacon of hope for patients like Domenico but also a hub of world-class research and innovation. Its work is sustained by public generosity, which Domenico is quick to acknowledge: “I would also like to acknowledge the generosity of the public, whose donations make it possible for The Storr Clinic to continue their remarkable work.”
Prof. Jacob George
Westmead Hospital Storr Liver Centre
A Legacy of Gratitude
For Domenico, words feel inadequate to express his gratitude to Westmead Hospital and the Storr Liver Centre. He credits their culture of innovation, compassion, and excellence for giving him a second chance at life. “The ‘Westmead Factor’—a tireless commitment to patient care, innovation, and excellence—has given me a second chance at life,” he says.
Even through the uncertainty of trial treatments and ongoing health challenges, Domenico felt supported every step of the way. “Despite the challenges of illness and the uncertainties of trial treatments, I always felt supported and never abandoned,” he reflects.
Today, he continues to celebrate his improved health and looks forward to ongoing care and monitoring by Professor George and the Storr Liver Centre team. To Domenico, and countless others, their work represents hope, healing, and the promise of a healthier future.
To the teams at Westmead and the Storr Liver Centre, Domenico offers his heartfelt thanks: “Your efforts make a profound difference in the lives of so many.”
