Dave Armstrong, the nation's fourth hand transplant recipient

Dave Robert Armstrong, the nation's fourth hand transplant recipient, continues to gain strength in his new right hand and has no signs of rejection, just two months following the innovative procedure. The medical team from the University of Louisville and Kleinert, Kutz & Associates performed the 14-hour surgical procedure on July 12, 2008 at Jewish Hospital. Armstrong is able to perform bicep curls with a four pound weight, exercise his wrist with a three pound weight and forearm with a two pound weight. He can perform small tasks such as dealing cards, place pegs in a hole and play paddle ball. Armstrong continues to wear brace on his new hand to allow the hand to heal and control the movement of his hand and fingers during therapy. He spends two hours a day in therapy sessions and then performs more therapy on his own time. Kleinert Institute Physical Therapist Anne Hodges says Dave is highly motivated and pushes himself to do more everyday. Everything is progressing. Strength, endurance and function all continue to improve every week.