Paterson, N.J., Jun 16, 2012 / 01:04 pm (CNA).- John Trommelen makes certain to devote every Thursday to helping ease the fears of organ-transplant patients at Newark Beth Israel Hospital with simple gestures: a reassuring word or a hug.
But this 77-year-old parishioner of St. Bonaventure in Allegany, N.Y. here also calms the anxiety of these patients and their concerned families with help from his two “new” hearts — one physical, the other spiritual.
For several years, Trommelen has been traveling weekly to Beth Israel Hospital, where he speaks to patients at all stages of the organ-transplant process — those being evaluated for transplant; those waiting for an organ; those, who have received a transplant; and sadly even those unable to receive an organ. He volunteers for the hospital’s Hearty Hearts Program with a deep understanding about what these patients experience.
Trommelen too underwent a successful heart transplant there Aug. 3, 2004 — the date he describes as his rebirth, both physically and spiritually.
“I almost died,” said Trommelen, who retired as co-owner of an auto-parts store in 2002, having suffered over the years many health problems, including two open-heart surgeries, due to serious coronary disease, and a battle with skin cancer.
“I feel that I owe somebody something. God is saving me for something,” he said.
Read more: http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/heart-transplant-provides-new-outlook-inspiration-on-life/
{Register to be an organ,eye and tissue donor. To learn how, www.donatelife.net or www.organdonor.gov}
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