Philadelphia Physician and Ex-Patient Team Up to Enlist 50,000 Organ Donors

A heartwarming reunion took place at Mor Children Hospital, where a transplant doctor and his former patient celebrated a major milestone. The doctor, Steven Dunn, and the patient, Diego Garcia, formed a special bond 30 years ago when Diego received a liver transplant as a child. Now, they are close friends working together to help others in need of organ transplants, traveling between the US and Bolivia to visit each other and improve transplants in Bolivia. Their story of friendship and collaboration has touched many, including those involved in the Gift of Life program, which is aiming to register 50,000 new organ donors in honor of its 50th anniversary. More information can be found on CBS philadelphia.com.

At Mor Children’s Hospital, a heartwarming reunion took place as Dr. Steven Dunn, a transplant doctor, and Diego Garcia, a former patient, celebrated a remarkable milestone. Diego, originally from South America, was saved by Dr. Dunn 30 years ago when he underwent a life-saving liver transplant at the age of four. The bond between the two has only strengthened over the years, with Dr. Dunn not only saving Diego’s life but also forming a lasting friendship and partnership with him.

Diego, now a healthy business owner in Bolivia, and Dr. Dunn have joined forces to improve organ transplants in Bolivia. Their collaboration extends beyond medicine, as they also enjoy spending family time together. The once doctor-patient relationship has evolved into an international family, with Diego referring to Dr. Dunn as his “American Dad” and expressing gratitude for all the help and support he has received over the years. Together, they are working with the Gift of Life program to register 50,000 new organ donors on its 50th anniversary, furthering their impact in the field of transplantation.

This heartwarming story showcases the enduring power of human connection and the life-changing impact of organ donation. Dr. Dunn and Diego’s special bond serves as a testament to the life-saving potential of organ transplants and the importance of continued efforts to expand access to transplantation services. Their journey from doctor-patient to friends and partners highlights the ripple effect of kindness and compassion, inspiring others to consider becoming organ donors and making a difference in the lives of those in need.


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