BOISE, ID, June 1, 2026 — The Fatty Liver Foundation (FLF) joins the liver community in mourning the passing of Anthony “Tony” Villiotti, founder of Liver Education Advocates (LEA), who passed away on May 28, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was 79.
Tony’s path to advocacy began with his own experience. After a long battle with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer, Tony received a life-saving liver transplant in 2018. Rather than slowing down, he dedicated the years that followed to ensuring that others would not face the delayed diagnosis and lack of awareness that had defined his own journey. He often said he believed his life had been saved for a purpose, and that helping others was his way of honoring the gift of his anonymous donor.
Together with his wife and caregiver Betsy, Tony founded NASH kNOWledge, a nonprofit organization dcommitted to educating the public about liver health, advocating for early detection and prevention, supporting patients and families, and raising awareness about organ donation. In recent years, the organization rebranded as Liver Education Advocates (LEA), reflecting the growth and evolution of their mission. Through public speaking, support groups, educational outreach, and community engagement, Tony built a regional presence centered in the Pittsburgh tri-state area while his story and advocacy resonated with patients and communities across the nation.
He also served as a Patient Ambassador for the Foundation for the Institutes of Health, a member of the Southern California Center for Latino Health’s Community Advisory Board, and on the External Advisory Board for the University of Pittsburgh’s Drug Discovery Institute.
“Tony built something real and lasting,” said Wayne Eskridge, Co-Founder and CEO of the Fatty Liver Foundation. “He took a difficult personal experience and turned it into a resource for thousands of patients. That kind of work leaves a mark on this community.”
“Tony was a colleague and a friend, and his voice will be missed at every table where liver health policy and patient experience are discussed,” said Henry E. Chang, Executive Director of the Fatty Liver Foundation. “Our thoughts are with Betsy, Gina, and the entire LEA family.”
The Fatty Liver Foundation extends its deepest condolences to Tony’s wife Betsy, his daughter and LEA Executive Director Gina Madison, his son Dave, his grandchildren, and the full LEA team. His legacy will continue through the work of the organization he founded and through the patients whose lives he touched.
In the spirit of Tony’s final wishes, FLF encourages everyone to register as an organ donor, prioritize their liver health, and speak with their doctor about screening for steatotic liver disease.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Liver Education Advocates at liveradvocates.org/donate or to the Transplant Program Fund at Allegheny Health Network at supportahn.org.
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About the Fatty Liver Foundation
The Fatty Liver Foundation is a national nonprofit patient organization dedicated to improving the identification, diagnosis, treatment, and support of people living with steatotic liver disease, including MASLD, MASH, and alcohol associated liver disease. Through awareness, screening, education, and advocacy, FLF works to ensure that individuals affected by liver disease can access the care, information, and support they need to live well with their condition.
Media Contact
Henry E. Chang
Executive Director
Fatty Liver Foundation
+1 917-400-8900
