Boy's Kidney Transplant Delayed By Father's Probation Violation, Rushed To ER

A Florida boy whose kidney transplant was delayed because of his father’s probation violation has been rushed to the hospital Sunday because of a peritonitis infection, according to WBIR a Knoxville, Tennessee, NBC affiliate.

Peritonitis is the inflammation of the peritoneum, a thin layer of tissue that covers the abdomen and organs. The condition can be potentially life-threatening and can be caused by kidney issues.

Two-year-old A.J. Burgess was born without kidneys and a hospital is delaying his father’s kidney donation because he violated parole. Burgess’ father, Anthony Dickerson, is a perfect match for a transplant and a surgery was scheduled at Emory Hospital.

Last month Dickerson was arrested for violating probation when he was charged with the possession of a firearm. After his release, the hospital decided to delay the surgery for at least three months to see if Dickerson would comply with his probation.

“The Living Donor Transplant Team at Emory has asked Mr. Dickerson for evidence of compliance from his parole officer for the next three months. We will re-evaluate Mr. Dickerson in January 2018 after receipt of his completed documentation,” read a letter to the family.

The family was disappointed.

WXIA, an Atlanta based NBC affiliate interviewed the family about their plight earlier this month.

“It's about my son,” said Carmella Burgess, A.J.’s mom. “He's been through a lot. It's like we've been waiting on this. And Dad making a mistake shouldn't affect what he wants to do with our son.”