Sun's Surgery a Success... No, Not That One

Not Amare... though also a success... Press Release for Sun Ming Ming's recent surgery...

7’8 Basketball Player Sun Ming Ming has Successful Surgery to Remove a Tumor on His Pituitary Gland

NBA hopeful Sun Ming Ming, a 7-foot-8-inch center from China, underwent revolutionary surgery Monday, September 26 to correct a potentially fatal disorder at Cedars Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles.

(PRWEB) September 30, 2005 -- Dr. Hrayr Shahinian of the Skull Base Institute in Los Angeles performed surgery on Ming in which a tumor on Ming’s pituitary gland was removed. The tumor, which was discovered in June, was causing Ming’s pituitary gland to over produce the growth hormone and severely decrease his endurance and stamina levels.

Dr. Shahinian expects Ming to resume his basketball career after short recovery and is confident Ming’s strength, stamina and endurance levels will show dramatic improvements.

“Sun Ming Ming is well on his way to achieve his dreams and aspirations," Shahinian said. “Monday’s surgery was a monumental milestone for him and he will see dramatic, positive results once he begins his basketball workouts. It is a testament to many people that a young man from a very poor province in rural China can come to the United States and receive innovative surgery that is not available in many countries."

Dr. Shahinian has earned worldwide acclaim for developing the complicated procedure with minimal risk factors and a greatly reduced recovery time over more traditional approaches to brain surgery.

Ming’s surgery was subsidized by donations and fundraisers. Ming is not currently with an NBA team and has no medical insurance.

“This surgery could not have been performed without the donations and efforts of many people in the United States, including Dr. Shahinian." said Ming’s agent, Charles Bonsignore of Passing Lane Sports. “I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Shahinian and his willingness to help."

Ming was released from the hospital on September 28th and is expected to return to the basketball court in three weeks.

“I want to thank everyone for caring about me and saving my life," Ming said. “I will always endeavor to give back to people and work hard to achieve my goals. I am excited to get back on the basketball court."

Fundraising is still ongoing to cover Ming’s medical costs. Checks can be sent directly to Sun Ming Ming at 9452 Telephone Road, #131, Ventura, CA 93004.

Bocce ball anyone?