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October 25, 2007
BY JOE McDONALD
Journal Sports Writer
BOSTON -- Andrew Madden, a Texas native, fell in love with the Red Sox in 2004. He was 10 at the time.
Less than a month ago, Andrew, now 13, underwent a successful heart transplant at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas. And his doctor promised to take him to a game in Boston if the Red Sox reached the World Series.
So last night -- not quite four weeks after his Sept. 30 surgery -- Andrew and his surgeon, Dr. Kristine Guleserian, a Boston native, were here.
''I just wanted to go to Fenway Park just once,'' Andrew said. ''But to watch a World Series game is a once-in-a-lifetime chance.''
As Red Sox president and CEO Larry Lucchino escorted Andrew and his mother, Lauren, around Fenway Park, it was obvious Andrew was in awe of his surroundings.
''The Red Sox helped me recovery and get my mind off my sickness,'' Andrew said. ''After my surgery I don’t remember much, but I saw the very last Angels game [in the ALDS] when they won. I watched all the Cleveland series and stayed up for every game, and now we’re here.''
Andrew plays baseball and said his favorite Red Sox player is fellow Texas native Josh Beckett.
As a special treat, Andrew threw out the ceremonial first pitch Thursday night.
Since Andrew and his doctor met, they’ve shared a love for the Red Sox. During the postseason they’ve been in constant communication about their team.
''It’s been a great partnership,'' said Dr. Guleserian. ''He’s my patient, but he’s also my friend.''
Andrew was the 100th heart transplant recipient at Children’s Medical Center.
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