Autistic Man Can't Get Heart Transplant Because He Has No Family So Nurse Decides To Adopt Him

Nov 22, 2019 by apost team

Lori Wood could not have predicted that within two days of meeting someone that someone would become her adopted son.

Jonathan Pinkard was admitted to Piedmont Newnan Hospital in critical condition for his failing heart. This autistic 27-year-old man not only was in dire straits for his heart condition but had no family to support him. His mother's need to live in a rehabilitation center forced him to live with his grandmother. Sadly, his grandmother passed away seven years ago leaving Jonathan without any family or friends to comfort him as he struggled to stay alive.

His only chance of survival required a heart transplant. But, without the support of family or friends, to help him recover from such a massive surgery, he could never hope to become a recipient.

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There was no hope for Jonathan. His nurse, Lori Wood, knew what she had to do. She told the Washington Post, "At some point, God places people in situations in your life, and you have a choice to do something about it. For me, there was no choice. I'm a nurse; I had an extra room. It was not something I struggled with. He had to come home with me."

Lori Wood is a single mother of two boys. She legally adopted Jonathan and made her family his family. Jonathan Pinkard told the Washington Post, "I couldn't believe that somebody who had known me only two days would do this. It was almost like a dream."

Jonathan not only has a new heart but has a new "Mama". Together they bond over television shows such as Family Feud and football. Lori makes sure that her new son eats well, gets to his doctor's appointments and takes his 34 medications.

Mike Robertson, the chief executive of Piedmont Newnan Hospital, told the Washington Post that Lori's selfless act is contagious and causing everyone at the hospital to become better people and caregivers. Her big heart has awarded her big praise by being named the 2018 – 2019 Annual Promise 360 Champion for Piedmont Newnan Hospital.

What do you think about this incredible true story of selfless love? Be sure to pass this article along to others - kindness is something our world greatly needs during these times.