Kentucky Man Wakes During Organ Harvest, Sparks Federal Investigation
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is currently investigating organ donation practices following reports of potential misconduct within a Kentucky-based organization, Network for Hope, which merged with Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates (KODA). Testimony before a House subcommittee revealed alleged instances where organs were harvested from individuals who may not have met the criteria for brain death. One specific case involves TJ Hoover, whose sister claims doctors attempted to harvest his organs while he exhibited signs of life, leading to the procedure’s halt. Former KODA employees have corroborated these accounts, raising serious concerns about the organization’s practices and prompting calls for reform in organ donation protocols.
John Q. Hosedrinker