First child in the world to receive double hand transplant goes home from hospital
Zion Harvey, the 8-year-old boy who received the world's first double hand transplant, was discharged from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia on Wednesday. Dr. Scott Levin, his lead surgeon said in a statement released by CHOP:
"We are so proud of Zion. Almost immediately after surgery, Zion displayed his resilience and positive attitude as he adjusted to the incredible experience of having new hands. In daily sessions with CHOP physical and occupational therapists, he has worked hard slowly gaining movement and strength in each hand, learning to pick up and hold objects."
We are excited to announce that Zion, the world's first child to receive a bilateral hand transplant has been discharged...
Posted by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia on Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Harvey underwent the transplant after losing his hands and feet to sepsis when he was 2 years old. In a video released by CHOP in July, Harvey explained that he was excited and hopeful to receive new hands but that he wouldn't mind if the surgery was unsuccessful. He said:
"When I was two, I had to get my hands cut off because I was sick. When I get these hands, I will be proud of what hands I get. And if it gets messed up, I don't care because I have my family."
The Maryland boy's surgery proved successful and Harvey is now getting used to his new hands. In a statement released by the hospital, Harvey's mother, Pattie Ray, said:
"The challenges facing Zion are new, but his determination should overcome them. He's already done so many amazing things. This is just one more hurdle he's ready to jump."
The hospital released videos of Harvey adjusting to his new hands as he partakes in music therapy, rides a bike, and plays soccer. The boy is very excited to be back at home.
This afternoon we announced that 8-year-old Zion Harvey, the world's first child to receive a bilateral hand transplant...
Posted by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia on Wednesday, August 26, 2015
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