Over the summer, Richard Mangino tossed a football on the beach with his two young grandsons, swam the crawl in his backyard pool, and mowed the lawn. Unremarkable events in most people’s lives, but Mangino did them with two new hands and forearms he received in a 12-hour transplant operation a year ago.
He drives, throws and catches a Wiffle ball, paints, and even plays “Pretty Woman” on the guitar, all with the two limbs donated from a New Hampshire man who was struck by a fatal brain hemorrhage last October.
Comments
What a bittersweet story! Mr. Mangino's spirit and determination are inspiring. Even more, the gift by Mrs. Lloyd of her late husband's hands at such a tragic time moved me deeply. I hope she and her family are comforted by the wonderful outcome of this courageous and generous decision. I also hope more people will decide to become donors as a result of this article.
Thank you Mrs. Lloyd for your generosity at such a difficult time. What a difference such a donation can make! Richard is an inspiration.
If you don't feel a sense hope and humility & compassion after reading this piece, check your pulse. To think I get "pissy" about some of the things I occasionally have to deal with makes me feel profoundly humble when I read updates on this man and am reminded of the donor. There is hope.........