This Day in History December 23, 1954

By Ruth on December 23, 2013 in history, science
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I  wasn’t aware of today’s feature.   On this date in 1954, the first successful kidney transplant occurred.  Richard Herrick had an incurable kidney disease, and his donor was his twin brother, Ronald Lee Herrick.  It was this fact (identical twin relationship) that ensured there would be no potential organ rejection.  Interestingly enough, Richard met his future wife, Clare, in the recovery room.  They married and had two children.  Richard lived for eight years after the surgery, and he only succumbed to kidney problems unrelated to the surgery.  The doctor who performed the surgery, Dr. Joseph Murray, later received a Nobel Peace Prize for his work in medical science.

For more information:

History of Transplants

http://famousdaily.com/history/first-human-kidney-transplant-performed.html

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=51386928

About the Author

RuthView all posts by Ruth
Ruth Hill is an entertainment journalist, digital media strategist, and creative professional who believes in the power of storytelling to inspire, encourage, and connect people. With years of experience interviewing actors, filmmakers, authors, and other creative professionals, Ruth has developed a passion for discovering the stories behind the people who bring entertainment to life. Her interviews and reviews reflect her appreciation for authentic storytelling, meaningful performances, and the creative individuals working both in front of and behind the camera. Through her digital media business, Media From the Heart, Ruth works with actors, filmmakers, authors, and organizations to help them connect with audiences through social media strategy, video production, YouTube optimization, website development, and digital marketing. A Washington State native, Ruth lives in the Yelm area and is the proud mother of an adult daughter. A former music educator and lifelong creative, she continues to pursue her passion for music, writing, and the arts. At the heart of everything Ruth does is her Christian faith, which inspires her commitment to seeing the best in others,

2 Comments

  1. Stephanie December 24, 2013 Reply

    Great story! I’m HUGE about organ donation and transplants as my best friend had a heart transplant at the age of 21 and lived 6 more years because of it. Cool to read a little history on the first successful kidney transplant.

  2. Pam Gurganus December 23, 2013 Reply

    This is a historical and beautiful read! Thank you so much for the information and for sharing!

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