Former US Army Sergeant Brendan Morocco appeared on the talk show, David Letterman, making history as the first combat veteran to receive a double arm transplant. The renowned doctor, Dr. WP Andrew Lee, who led a team of 16 surgeons in performing the procedure, joined him on the show.
During the interview, Letterman expressed his gratitude to Brendan for sharing his remarkable story. Brendan, originally from Staten Island, joined the Army in 2007 and was motivated by his desire to serve his country. He acknowledged the risks involved in joining the military during a time of war but considered it the best decision of his life.
Brendan’s life took a dramatic turn on April 12, 2009, when his routine mission ended with him getting blown up by a roadside bomb. Despite the extensive injuries he sustained, Brendan remained thankful and focused on pushing forward. He underwent hours of rehabilitation daily, working with prosthetics and prosthetic legs for two years. However, he always dreamed of having real arms.
The possibility of a double arm transplant was presented to Brendan by General Amos of the Marine Corps. After receiving approval from the Institution Review Board at Johns Hopkins and securing funding from the Department of Defense, the surgery became a reality. Dr. Lee explained that the procedure involved connecting the bones, muscles, blood vessels, nerves, and skin, and the operational team completed the surgery in a mere 13 hours.
Since the transplant, Brendan has made remarkable progress in his recovery. He can now use his arms like anyone else, performing everyday tasks and undergoing therapy. Dr. Lee mentioned that Brendan has had the most extensive hand transplant in terms of the arm tissues that were transplanted. The team connected the arm from the donor above the elbow for his right arm. For his left arm, they transplanted the entire forearm from the donor to preserve his only remaining elbow joint.
Letterman was astounded by Brendan’s progress and the expert surgical team’s skill. He marveled at the fact that Brendan could now do with his arms what everyone else does effortlessly. Brendan’s determination, along with the exceptional care he received at Walter Reed, contributed to his remarkable recovery.
Looking to the future, Brendan revealed that he is currently undergoing driving lessons and only has a few sessions left. He expressed his excitement to drive again and return to a normal life. The possibility of a leg transplant, similar to his arm transplant, was also discussed, but research advancements are needed before it can become a reality.
Dr. Lee expressed optimism regarding Brendan’s prognosis, noting that he has made significant progress in just 14 months. However, it may take three to four years for Brendan to maximize his strength and dexterity.
The talk show appearance wasn’t the only extraordinary event in Brendan’s life. He was also invited to the Daytona 500, where the race was dedicated to him by Kurt Bush and the Armed Forces Foundation. Brendan reflected on the emotional experience of standing on the starting grid, hearing the national anthem, and realizing the significance of the moment.
Letterman concluded the interview by inviting Brendan to visit the show again as his life continues to improve. Brendan, grateful for the opportunity, expressed his willingness to return.
Former US Sergeant Brendan Morocco‘s story is an inspiration to all, showcasing the resilience and determination of our military veterans. The double arm transplant he underwent, the expertise of the surgical team, and his exceptional recovery is an unprecedented milestone in medical history. As he continues to progress, Brendan’s journey serves as a reminder of the extraordinary strength of the human spirit.
