Bobby Rydell Transplant: Teen Idol Received Kidney, Liver
Legendary '60's singer Bobby Rydell has undergone a double organ transplant in Philadelphia.
The 70-year-old had the surgery last week at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Rydell's doctors said the singer would not have lived much longer without the double organ transplant, according to the Associated Press.
Rydell's medical team also said that they were able to use part of the donor liver to help Rydell as well as a child.
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Today, it is reported that Rydell wants to become more active in raising awareness about organ donation. The Philadelphia native was expected to be released from the hospital Wednesday.
"It's truly a miracle," said the singer of his recovery, according to TheWrap.com. "The doctor and I we are going to work and make people aware of organ donorship. It's very, very important."
Rydell would have otherwise had "maybe a month" to live without the donated liver and kidney, doctors said.
"It's the gift of life," the singer noted.
Best known for rock and roll music, Rydell was "one of the most sought-after nightclub and concert acts in the U.S.," according to Allmusic music journalist Kim Summers.
His famous hit songs included "Wild One" and "Volare," while he also was a talented impersonator and drummer.
Earlier this year Rydell was forced to cancel his Australia tour due to his health, which had deteriorated significantly.
Over the course of his lengthy career, the "Swingin' School" singer performed on television programs including the "Red Skeleton Show" and "Danny Thomas Show," in addition to being a regular on "The Milton Berle Show."
In both the Broadway musical drama and film "Grease," the high school was named "Rydell High" after Bobby Rydell.
