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SON GIVES MOM THE GIFT OF LIFE FOR MOTHER’S DAY
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Who:
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Gloria Morrison, kidney transplant patient; her son and donor, Paul Morrison; Gaetano Ciancio, M.D., M.B.A., F.A.C.S., chief medical director, Miami Transplant Institute at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center; Junichiro Sageshima, M.D., pediatric and adult kidney and pancreas transplant, Miami Transplant Institute
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What:
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In 2001, Gloria Morrison was diagnosed with acute kidney disease and hypertension. The mother of two sons was able to manage her condition, but her health began deteriorating over time. In 2010, doctors told her she would need a kidney transplant. Gloria was nervous about having surgery, though her husband and children volunteered to be donors. All were tested and her youngest son Paul, then 18, was the perfect match.
Though grateful for her son’s willingness to donate a kidney, Gloria worried about him making a rash decision and undergoing surgery. “I was concerned about putting my son in that situation,” she said. “He was so young. I wanted him to be emotionally ready for this big decision.” So she decided they wouldn’t rush into the surgery, but rather wait until Paul was a few years older.
To prevent her condition from worsening, Gloria was placed on peritoneal dialysis (PD), a treatment that required her to use a catheter and remain connected to a machine through the night while she slept. Gloria recalls the discomfort she lived through during the next three years. She knew PD was not a permanent solution. Paul, now 21, was her only hope.
On April 30, 2013, Gloria successfully underwent a kidney transplant at Jackson Memorial Hospital. “I would do anything for my mom,” Paul said. “I feel good knowing she is doing better. I want her to live a healthier life.”
Gloria is looking forward to living a long life and being able to enjoy her family. Paul, who is recovering well, his brother and father plan to pamper Gloria on Mother’s Day. “We will cook her breakfast. We won’t let her do anything around the house,” said Paul.
For her part, Gloria said she will never forget the ultimate gift of life that her son lovingly gave her. “I just want him to know I love him,” she said. “He did a courageous thing.”
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When:
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May
08, 2013, 11:00 a.m.- 12:00 a.m.
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Where:
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Ryder Trauma Center
Room 103
1800 N.W. 10th Avenue
Miami, FL 33136
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Editor’s Note:
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Media can park in media lot outside of Ryder.
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# # #
Jackson Health System
1611 N.W. 12th Avenue Miami, FL 33136
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