Pig heart man dies two months after controversial world-first transplant

dailystar.co.uk:

world to be given a heart transplant from a genetically-modified pig has died.David Bennett, 57, had a terminal heart disease and survived for two months following the surgery, which took place in the US.However, his condition began to deteriorate several days ago, according to his doctors in Baltimore.Mr Bennett, who had been deemed ineligible for a human transplant, sadly passed away on March 8.He originally thought medics were joking when he was first told of the potential procedure.

Dr Bartley P Griffith, a Professor of Transplant Surgery at the University of Maryland (UMSOM), performed the surgery on January 7 and said back then said that it could start “hearts on demand” for patients in the future."We are devastated by the loss of Mr Bennett.

He proved to be a brave and noble patient who fought all the way to the end. We extend our sincerest condolences to his family,” said Dr Griffith.“Mr Bennett became known by millions of people around the world for his courage and steadfast will to live.”Doctors at the UMSOM had to be granted special dispensation by the US medical regulator to carry out the procedure on the Mr Bennett, who would otherwise have died.Following the surgery, doctors said that Mr Bennett's transplanted heart performed very well for several weeks without any signs of rejection.He was even able to spend time with his family and participated in physical therapy to help regain strength.Mr Bennett also watched the Super Bowl with his physical therapist and spoke often about wanting to get home to his dog Lucky.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.“We have gained invaluable insights learning that the genetically.