MOBILE – Celebrating ten years of kidney transplantation and quality patient care at the University of South Alabama Regional Transplant Center, an anniversary gala will be held from 7-11 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 11 at the Mobile Convention Center.

All patients, donors and their families are invited as special guests to help celebrate the success of kidney transplantation and the fulfillment of a special mission that has allowed many patients to receive their kidney transplant in their own home region.

The evening will feature special recognition of those who have contributed to the success of the transplant program and to the many patients from the Gulf Coast region who have participated in the United States Transplant Games over the last six years.

The first living donor and the first deceased donor transplants at the USA Regional Transplant Center were both performed by Dr. Ferdinand Ukah in August 1996, and were marked with success for both kidney recipients and the living donor. In the last 10 years, more than 200 kidney transplant recipients have received care at the transplant center.

Recently, the transplant center performed its first two laparoscopic kidney removals, a minimally invasive technique that promotes a speedier recovery for donors. The procedure is a significant step forward in the University’s efforts to increase kidney donations locally and to expand kidney treatment options in the community.

The Honorable Judge and Mrs. Dominick Matranga are Gala co-chairs. Tickets to the event are $25. For reservations and information, please call Helen Huppertz at the USA Regional Transplant Center at 471-7391.