Company Press Release

Transplant Recipients International Organization, Inc. Remembers Its Former President Robert P. Casey

WASHINGTON, June 2 /PRNewswire/ -- As flags on state buildings fly at half-staff in honor of Robert Casey, Pennsylvania's former governor who died May 30 at age 68 from a serious infection, Transplant Recipients International Organization, Inc. (TRIO) remembers him as a pioneer transplant recipient. Casey served as TRIO's president from 1995 to 1997.

``The death of Robert Casey is a great loss to his family as well as the people of Pennsylvania and the transplant community. He did so much for the transplant community and for the state of Pennsylvania. TRIO had the great opportunity to work with him and we will always remember him as a pioneer and advocate for the patient,'' said Lisa Kory, executive director of TRIO.

``He governed as he lived -- with integrity and honesty. He faced his health challenges with dignity,'' she continued.

Robert Casey suffered from familial amyloidosis, a disease that causes proteins to invade the heart and other vital organs. Because of the disease, Casey received a heart-liver transplant in 1993. Mr. Casey was the sixth person to undergo this type of procedure in the United States. He received the surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

As Governor, Casey supported Pennsylvania Act of 102. Among the many approaches to increase donation this legislation has served as a national model. It requires hospitals to notify the local organ procurement organization of each death, and holds hospitals accountable if they do not comply. The legislation has helped patients waiting for transplants and serves as a reminder that transplantation works.

Members of TRIO plan to attend the funeral service tomorrow, Saturday, June 3, in his hometown of Scranton, Pa.

To receive more information on Transplant Recipients International Organization, Inc. (TRIO) and the Pennsylvania Act of 102, please contact their office at 1-800-TRIO-386.

Transplant Recipients International Organization, Inc. (TRIO) is an independent, non-profit, international organization, working to improve the quality of life of transplant candidates, recipients, donors, and their families. Through the TRIO office in Washington, DC, a network of chapters throughout the United States, Italy, and Japan, and members-at-large, TRIO provides a range of services to its community, including awareness, support, education, and advocacy.

For more information contact Lisa Kory of Transplant Recipients International Organization 202-293-0980.

SOURCE: Transplant Recipients International Organization, Inc.