Zion Harvey is a living angel. His spirit is warm and shines brightly through his cheeky smile. At only 8 years of age, Zion has triumphed over tragedy, the type of tragedy that adults would find insurmountable. His story began when at the age of two he contracted a bacterial infection that invaded his body and that eventually lead to amputations of his hands and feet. That infection also damaged his kidneys to the point where a kidney transplant was warranted. His mother, Pattie Ray provided that kidney. Despite his early challenges in life, Zion learned to adapt to his new life. He is able to walk and run with lower extremity prosthetics. Also, even without hands he learned to master most tasks.
Initially considering upper extremity prosthetics doctors decided that a hand transplant would be best. Zion underwent a ten hour operation at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia early this month. This marked the world’s first pediatric bilateral hand transplant.
Because of the wonder and advancement of medicine Zion has an opportunity to live out his wish of throwing a football. A true blessing.
His story is remarkable. Watch his story here:
This is an inspiration to all children with challenges. Very important to have these stories. Thank you.
It’s amazing how far medicine and technology have come. This young man is truly blessed and I can’t wait to hear about his progress and what God has in store for him.