Dear Cathy:
I received a message from Lynn and she informed me as to how important this information would be to you at this stage of your life’s journey. It takes courage to ask for this information and I hope it brings come consolation to help you reconcile the profound loss of your son Arthur.
Let me clarify that based upon the circumstances of Arthur’s case he was only able to donate Tissue. He has touched numerous lives with the gifts and those recipients we do not have contact with. As you requested, the disposition of Arthur’s gift of tissue and I hope this information brings a small measure of healing to you after five years.
Tendons and ligaments are used as grafts that repair a torn or ruptured ligament. This surgery allows recipients to resume normal activities with little or no pain and with increased range of motion. Twenty-four such grafts have been released for transplant.
The gift of human bone typically results in the formation of numerous grafts that are used in various surgical procedures including spinal fusion surgeries in the cervical and lumbar areas. Bone grafts are used commonly in orthopedics to facilitate healing of fractures and rebuilding or remodeling of bone for total hips or knees. Twenty-seven bone grafts have been prepared for transplant.
Cancellous and cortical bone is used in numerous forms of oral and maxillofacial repair. It is also used in orthopedics to facilitate the healing of fractures and the rebuilding or remodeling of bone for hips, knees, or other orthopedic defects. There have been Five releases of this gift for transplant.
The Fascia Lata is used for urological and sports medicine repairs. Eight grafts have been distributed.
As you can see, these numerous gifts have improved the quality of life for many people from all over the United States. Literally, from Maine to California. I hope this letter reaffirms your family’s decision for tissue donation. If you have any questions in regards to this letter, please do not hesitate to call me.
Respectfully yours,
Richard D. Meadows, Jr., M.Div.
Donor Family Advocate
LifeNet_HealthTM
Transplant Services Division
3609 Saunders Ave., Richmond VA 23227
DIRECT: 1-800-847-7839 Ext. 1916 or 757-521-1916
FAX: 804-521-0461