A medical student in the UK has regained her independence after receiving a rare hand transplant, years after losing her limbs to meningitis. Becca Heritage was just weeks into college in 2018 when she fell critically ill, leading to the amputation of both legs and most of her fingers. Determined to overcome this hardship, she signed up for a transplant, ultimately becoming only the ninth person in the UK to undergo the procedure.
The 12-hour surgery at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust successfully restored her ability to grip, allowing her to write, draw, paint, and perform medical tasks like taking blood. Heritage, now studying to become a doctor, says the transplant has been life-changing, giving her back the confidence to complete everyday tasks with ease. She also volunteers to raise vaccine awareness and promote the possibilities of hand transplantation.
Beyond the physical benefits, the transplant has given Heritage a deep sense of gratitude. She was able to write to her donor’s family and learn more about the person who made her transformation possible. Now back to cooking, applying makeup, and pursuing her dream career in medicine, she hopes to inspire others facing similar challenges.
Source: TALKER NEWS
photo: GETTY
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