Philadelphia hospital apologizes to family of Amelia Rivera

USA Today | Kim Painter

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has apologized to the parents of Amelia Rivera, a disabled three-year-old girl who, according to her parents, was initially denied a chance at a kidney transplant because she is "mentally retarded."

In a statement released jointly with Joe and Chrissy Rivera today, a hospital official also promised to review the way the hospital handles such cases. And Amelia's possible transplant is now under consideration, as her parents have previously reported.

"As an organization, we regret that we communicated in a manner that did not clearly reflect our policies or intent and apologize for the Riveras' experience," said Michael Apkon, senior vice president and chief medical officer.
Read more: http://yourlife.usatoday.com/health/healthyperspective/post/2012-02-15/philadelphia-hospital-apologizes-to-parents-of-disabled-girl-amelia-rivera-over-handling-of-transplant-decision/628746/1