Former Phillipsburg High School wrestling standout Luke Grassi undergoes successful liver transplant in Philadelphia

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

By BARRY MILLER

The Express-Times

Former Phillipsburg High School wrestler Luke Grassi underwent successful liver transplant surgery Monday night at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

The surgery ended weeks of uncertainty for Grassi and his family about his condition and treatment. And it was welcome news for the Phillipsburg community, which had rallied around the former Stateliner star with cards and get-well wishes to the family.

Grassi's condition was not immediately diagnosed and there was later uncertainty about when he would receive a new liver.

But after four hours of surgery, doctors were optimistic Grassi could lead a normal life and even return to his passion: wrestling.

Grassi, a freshman at Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tenn., suffered a shin injury while working out around Labor Day. The injury never healed properly and visits to the college training staff and a Tennessee hospital followed.

Grassi on Sept. 26 returned home to Lopatcong Township to meet with Dr. Jeffrey Goldstein, a family friend. After three days in Easton Hospital, Grassi was transferred to the University of Pennsylvania Hospital for further tests.

When his condition deteriorated Monday because his liver was no longer filtering toxins out of his system, doctors determined he needed the transplant immediately.

Doctors told Grassi's uncle, Gary Dailey, that Grassi is expected to make a full recovery.

"They said they've had liver transplant patients who have climbed the Himalayas," Dailey said.

Doctors could not determine what caused Grassi's liver to deteriorate.

Grassi is Phillipsburg High's all-time winner with 120 career victories and was a third-place winner at states as a senior.

"He's a fantastic kid one of the nicest kids I've ever coached," said Rick Thompson, who coached Grassi during his freshmen and sophomore years at Phillipsburg. "He was great as a wrestler but even better off the mat."

Thompson said Grassi would often donate his time at midget matches.

"We need more kids like that," Thompson said.

Jason Magditch, who coached Grassi during his junior and senior years, echoed Thompson's sentiments.

"He was a great leader. The other kids looked up to him," he said.

Magditch said he spoke with him before the surgery and Grassi was looking forward to getting back into wrestling....