Italy is in mourning following the tragic death of two-year-old Domenico, who passed away on Saturday after a heartbreaking two-month battle. Domenico had received a donor heart in late December, but tragically, the organ was severely damaged during transport, sparking a national outcry.
The heart, intended to save young Domenico’s life, was reportedly transported over 800km from Bolzano to Naples in direct contact with dry ice. Critically, there was no proper container or thermometer to monitor its temperature. This catastrophic oversight led to the organ arriving “burned by frostbite,” causing irreversible tissue damage.
Domenico had been on life support at Monaldi Hospital in Naples, his brave fight capturing the nation’s attention, including an appeal from his mother to the Pope. Despite the family’s fervent hope, a panel of specialists recently concluded that his condition was not compatible with another transplant.
Now, as Italy grieves, prosecutors have launched a formal investigation into the incident, with six medical professionals placed under scrutiny. This case has ignited widespread outrage across the country.
Domenico’s mother, Patrizia Mercolino, shared her profound heartbreak: “It’s over. Domenico is gone.” The family’s lawyer announced plans for a foundation in Domenico’s name, dedicated to children needing transplants and victims of medical negligence. Both Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Health Minister Orazio Schillaci have expressed their condolences and vowed that a full light will be shed on this terrible incident, emphasizing the need for accountability and to prevent such a tragedy from ever happening again.
