Physical Therapy Student Gives a Kidney to Save Mother's Life

Philadelphia, PA, 2002 - Campbell McCormack, IV, a second year physical therapy student at Thomas Jefferson University's College of Health Professions did more than just study for his finals this semester, he helped save his mother's life by giving her his kidney. The surprise was even "gift wrapped."

For the past year, Campbell's mother, Karen McCormack, had been dependent on dialysis. Before actually telling his mom of his intentions, Cam went through a series of tests to determine if his kidney would match.

"Thanks to one of my professors, Dr. Maggie Ayres," explained Cam, I was able to get all my testing done and not miss any of my classes. She made sure my clinical schedule did not interfere with all the testing I had to go through. I don't think I could have done any of this without the help of Dr. Ayres and Mary Dyson, RN, BS, CNN, a transplant coordinator at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital."

"Cam is a very poised individual," stated Dr. Ayres, associate professor in Jefferson's Physical Therapy Department. It was wonderful to see this type of behavior in a student. He never asked for the program to accommodate his needs. This is something we do for our students. He epitomizes a model health professional."

At the end of November, Cam discovered he was a match and wanted to do something special to tell his mother. With the help of classmate Bridget Termini, he baked a cake in the shape of a kidney and fired the celebration with a couple of candles. Younger brother Andrew, 17, supplied the congratulatory banner. A little bewildered by the impromptu celebration, Mrs. McCormack realized what was transpiring when Cam lifted his shirt and revealed a gold bow stuck to his kidney area. Tears filled her eyes. She couldn't believe what her son was telling her.

On Wednesday, December 19, 2001, at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Dr. Lloyd E. Ratner, director, Division of Transplantation, performed Cam's surgery, a minimally invasive kidney retrieval. The procedure was videotaped. Dr. Donald C. Dafoe, chairman, Department of Surgery (Mrs. McCormack's surgeon) placed Cam's kidney into his mother.

"What Cam did for me is priceless," explained Mrs. McCormack. As a mom it was hard to watch on video something so perfect and healthy being cut open in surgery. My husband and I have always taught the boys that sharing and giving is something that cannot be replaced. Cam definitely took that to the next level."

"I love my mom very much," said Cam. "She gave me life and I can't think of a better way to say thank you."

Cam's kidney worked immediately inside his mother. There were no complications during the surgery. The McCormack family is recovering well.

Jefferson College of Health Professions, founded in 1969 and located in the heart of Philadelphia, provides innovative academic programs to a highly qualified, culturally diverse student population with the primary goal of developing outstanding professionals and future leaders in healthcare. The College offers fully accredited bachelor's and master's degree programs in diagnostic imaging, laboratory sciences, nursing, occupational therapy and physical therapy. In addition, selected health certificate programs are offered and associate degrees in the Department of General Studies can be earned.

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