"I don't think in our history, we've ever done three sequential transplants like this. These are three of the most major organs that vital to a persons survival," said Dr. Ma.
Joseph's medical conditions are part cause of some developmental struggles, but it is his ability to emerge with a smile that sets him apart."Happy and good," he said. "He goes into the situation even though we know it's a scary situation. He never shows it too much even though he's apprehensive and for good reason. He has a really great attitude."
"God has sent us wonderful people. From the nurses, the doctors, the music therapists, the art therapy . . . those people made his days," Elena said.But amidst the joy, there is still some fear. "He could have rejection. They can stop working right. So I think that's my biggest fear," Elena said.Be the Match bone marrow registry signs up Bay Area college students: How you can register too"When he had cancer at seven months, we didn't think he'd make it to one year. And now, here is at 19 because of the organ donors they made it possible. I saw him graduate kindergarten, elementary... 'oh, JoJo, it's okay,'" she said.