Augusta man has historic double-hand transplant

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By Dustin Blanchard dblanchard@nbcaugusta.com

Story Published: May 4, 2009 at 10:27 PM EST

Story Updated: May 4, 2009 at 10:27 PM EST

An Augusta man is making history as the nation's first recipient of a double-hand transplant.

Jeff Kepner spent more than 15 hours in the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center operating room Monday.

Doctors say the double-transplant surgery went well, and Jeff's friends couldn't be more excited for him.

"He's very delightful, he has a great sense of humor. If you go to shake hands with him, he'll give you a hard shoulder," said Jack Padgett, Jr.

He says he knew he liked Jeff Kepner, from the moment he met him.

"His attitude probably has made a lot of this possible. He doesn't seem bitter about any of it," said Padgett.

Now, sitting with his laptop, waiting for updates on Kepner's surgery, he says he couldn't be happier for his friend.

"Miracles can still happen and do happen, and with someone like Jeff, who's just a shining example," he said.

After months of prayer and fundraising, Padgett says he's ready to shake Jeff's hand for the first time.

Kepner lost both of his hands and his feet to a strep infection 10 years ago.

Padgett says the congregation at Burns Memorial United Methodist kept a prayer chain going for Kepner during his entire surgery.

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Tuesday, May 5 at 8:10 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Such an inspiring story. My prayers go out to Jeff for a speedy recovery. Keep your chin up and keep smiling !!

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