Three years ago, Anthony “TJ” Hoover, 33, was hospitalized after an overdose and diagnosed as brain-dead, prompting his family to consent to organ donation. TJ, a registered donor, seemed an ideal candidate, but shortly before the procedure to harvest his organs, he unexpectedly regained consciousness. While his family saw it as a miracle, former staff involved in his case reported deep concerns, revealing in medical records that TJ had shown signs of awareness, resistance, and movement during preparation, yet was nearly taken to surgery.
TJ Hoover and Donna Rhorer were always close. Rhorer was like a second mother to him. Courtesy Donna Rhorer
This incident has sparked investigations by Kentucky’s attorney general and federal health authorities, highlighting questions about the ethics and oversight in the U.S. organ procurement process. Critics argue that TJ’s case underscores potential flaws in how such cases are handled, raising fears that similar incidents could recur without significant reform. Now recovering, TJ receives support from his sister, Donna Rhorer, who is sharing their story to prevent similar outcomes and ensure that organ donation practices respect both patients and their families.
