On Christmas Eve 2001, George Simko got what he wanted and prayed for...a new heart. Without it he probably wouldn't survive the year.

Early in November, George experienced an illness which was originally mistaken for pneumonia. After several tests were taken, he was diagnosed with a virus which was attacking his heart. According to George's wife, Diane, Dr. Mark Bernardi at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital acted quickly to treat George by surgically placing a balloon in George's chest to keep his heart pumping. "Some members of the hospital staff tried to prepare me," said Diane. "They told me that my husband's chances of survival were very slim."

Dr. Bernardi would not give up on George and made arrangements for him to be transferred to the Hershey Medical Center. Dr. Silber accepted George as a patient on Dr. Bernardi's recommendation. While at Hershey, the virus had destroyed much of George's heart muscle, and he was immediately placed on a waiting list for a heart transplant. His condition worsened, which prompted Dr. Sun, a cardiologist at Hershey, to surgically install an L-Vad in George. An L-Vad is basically a machine that kept his heart pumping. At this point, there was nothing that George, Diane, and their family and friends could do but wait and pray for a miracle.

On December 23, George and Diane heard the news that a heart was on the way and that the transplant would take place the next day. "This was truly a Christmas miracle," said Diane. "The doctor even told us that the heart had come from Bethlehem."

On Christmas Eve, George said, "I'm ready," and went into the operating room for a successful heart transplant. The surgery was performed in Hershey by Dr. Pae. Diane later found out that Dr. Pae is a world renowned heart surgeon. On Christmas Day, George was able to sit up and talk with Diane about the blessing they had received.

George and Diane were thankful for the wonderful care they received from the doctors and nursing staff. They credit Dr. Bernardi with saving George's life. They were humbled by the outpouring of prayers and support which they received from their family and friends. Diane said that the Red Cross organized a successful blood drive at St. Anthony's Parish Center in Exeter. "There is still a need for blood donors," said Diane. "Our family and friends gave blood in honor of George and we will continue to give blood so we can help save lives."

"There are so many wonderful people who have helped us through this difficult time," said Diane. "We are sincerely touched by the kindness of others. If everything continues to go well, George will be home in two weeks." George, 44, is a heavy equipment operator for Slusser Brothers. Diane said George's company and his co-workers have been very supportive and that George is grateful.

As we approach 4 years since his transplant, we continue to be thankful for the miracle of that year -- The miracle that has kept George with us.

In
Closing thought: I'm proud to be an organ donor. Are you?