John Nucci today called the MGH team that did his kidney transplant surgery "miracle workers."
The former City Councilor, who underwent the life-saving procedure yesterday at Massachusetts General Hospital, told the Herald in a text exchange that's he's recovering and ready for his second act in life thanks to a selfless donor.
"Believe me, I'm going to work hard to fully recover and then make good use of this second chance to do what I can to raise awareness and help those who find themselves in this situation," Nucci said.
Nucci, 66, of East Boston received the kidney he needed from family friend Kerri Abrams yesterday morning.
Abrams, 37, of Arlington volunteered to donate a kidney to Nucci, who was suffering from genetic polycystic kidney disease.
Nucci told the Herald no visitors are allowed to see him yet, but his new kidney is functioning well.
"They are absolute miracle workers here at Mass General Hospital! And I also know that I wouldn't be here right now with this new lease on life without Kerri, my family, the prayers of many wonderful people, and, of course, God who heard our prayers," he texted.
As the Herald reported today, Nucci is not alone when it comes to needing a transplant. One expert said 3,874 people in Massachusetts are awaiting organ transplants of some sort, including 2,811 who need a kidney.