Man makes first public appearance after double arm transplant

BOSTON -- A former Boston University film professor made his first public appearance on Tuesday since receiving a double arm transplant last month.

Will Lautzenheiser thanked everyone involved in the nearly nine-hour operation at Brigham and Women's Hospital.

He acknowledged the man whose arms he received and thanked the donor's family.

"This person, who's anonymous to me, will always be as close to me as my own skin now," Lautzenheiser said.

Lautzenheiser lost his arms and legs in 2011 after a strep infection.

A total of 13 surgeons and 35 hospital personnel participated in the operation.

Lautzenheiser said the best thing about the operation is that he's able to hug his loved ones again.