December 23, 2004
Fiftieth Anniversary of Organ Transplantation Commemorated
The first successful kidney transplant was performed fifty years ago today at Peter Bent Brigham Hospital (now Brigham and Women's Hospital). Then, Dr. Joseph Murray led the surgical team that performed the transplant between identical twins Richard Herrick (recipient) and Ronald Herrick (living donor). Many news organizations this week are reflecting on the advancement of transplantation from its early history to the present.
Organ transplantation has matured from the forefront of scientific achievement to an accepted medical therapy that saves and enhances the lives of more than 25,000 people each year in the United States. UNOS praises the efforts of transplant professionals and the selfless devotion of organ donors, living and deceased, who make the ultimate commitment to Donate Life.
At the same time, everyone involved with or personally touched by organ transplantation shares the hopes of increasing donation to make transplants possible for everyone in need, and of further enhancing the length and quality of life of those who have already received the gift of life.
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