US High School Delivers Diploma to 18-Year-Old Undergoing Heart Transplant
"They woke me up and said, 'Put your cap and gown on,'" Autman recalled of the surprise ceremony. His foster mother, Sjana Autman, described the many challenges he faced, including learning and writing difficulties due to his condition.
Binye-lum 
Joseph Bommarito Autman, 18, missed his high school graduation due to a heart transplant surgery but was surprised with a special graduation ceremony in the hospital.
Autman has battled congestive heart failure since birth, a condition that severely hampers the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. By age four, he had undergone four heart surgeries and was placed in foster care at six before being adopted.
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"They woke me up and said, 'Put your cap and gown on,'" Autman recalled of the surprise ceremony. His foster mother, Sjana Autman, described the many challenges he faced, including learning and writing difficulties due to his condition.
Despite these hardships, Autman was surrounded by family, friends, and hospital staff as his teacher presented him with his diploma. The ceremony also celebrated his recent heart transplant, which occurred after only a few months on the waiting list.
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Pediatric cardiologist Dr. Natalie Shwaish credited a generous donor for the heart. "When I got on the transplant list, they said it could take years, decades to get new hearts. It took me a couple of months," Autman said.
Planning to attend college, Autman must first spend a few weeks recovering in the hospital. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed gratitude for the support he's received, saying, "This has given me a second wind, a new drive and passion."
