Kentucky: In an incident that has raised serious ethical concerns, a man declared brain dead regained consciousness just as doctors were preparing to remove his heart for organ donation. The case, involving 36-year-old Thomas ‘TJ’ Hoover II, has led to investigations.
Hoover, who had overdosed on drugs in October 2021, was admitted to Baptist Health Richmond Hospital in Kentucky and later declared brain dead. However, at the moment he was being moved to the operating room for organ removal, Hoover began to show signs of life.
Nyckoletta Martin, a former employee of Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates (KODA), claimed that Hoover was “thrashing around on the table” and described the situation as terrifying. Another KODA worker, Natasha Miller, confirmed that Hoover was visibly crying as he was being transported from the intensive care unit. Despite these signs of life, the organ removal was allegedly set to continue, sparking outrage.
Julie Bergen, president of the newly formed Network for Hope, denied the allegations, stating that no organs were collected from living patients. Baptist Health Richmond reiterated their commitment to patient safety and respect for organ donation wishes.
Hoover, now living under the care of his sister, Donna Rhorer, has suffered lasting effects from the ordeal, including difficulties with memory, walking, and talking. The incident is currently under investigation by the Kentucky Attorney General and the US Health Services Resources Administration.
