Las Vegas Sun

March 29, 2024

Gondo’s heart transplant: ‘So far, so good’ (UPDATED)

Glen Gondezrick is recuperating in the intensive care unit at UCLA Medical Center after undergoing a six-hour heart-transplant surgery today.

The UNLV basketball legend is on a ventilator, but that is common after such a procedure. Doctors said there were no complications.

"So far, so good," said Tammy Wadkins, Gondo's close friend.

Gondrezick went into the operating room at 10:30 a.m., and received the heart about 1:15 p.m. Wadkins said she expected to see Gondrezick later tonight.

***

Usually, when the phone rings at 12:15 a.m. at my house, it's bad news.

Not this time.

"Ron -- they found a heart."

It was Glen Gondrezick calling.

A donor heart apparently has been located for the UNLV basketball legend who so badly needs a transplant.

Gondrezick was put at the top of the donor waiting list 174 days ago. Earlier this week, he seemed on the verge of giving up. He was frustrated and demoralized and his condition was worsening.

Now, there's hope. Lots of hope.

I asked Gondo how he was feeling (excited and nervous) and when he was leaving for UCLA Medical Center. He said "Right now."

I wished him luck. I don't even know if he heard me.

He promised he'd have those close to him keep me informed.

As soon as I hear something, you will.

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