Kentucky Man Wakes Up During Organ Harvesting Procedure

A man declared brain dead regained consciousness on the operating table, prompting investigations into organ procurement protocols.

Anthony Thomas 'TJ' Hoover II was mistakenly declared brain dead after a drug overdose and was scheduled for organ donation surgery in 2021.
During the procedure, Hoover showed signs of life, including movement and visible tears, leading to the cancellation of the organ retrieval.
Witnesses reported that despite the signs of life, there was pressure from the organ procurement organization to continue the procedure.
The incident has sparked investigations by Kentucky's Attorney General and the federal Health Resources and Services Administration.
Hoover survived the ordeal and now lives with his sister, but faces ongoing challenges with memory, mobility, and speech.