University of California San Francisco

UCSF Department of Surgery
April 2, 2026
Dr. Hanmin Lee news story

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- It was a reunion 18 years in the making. Last time Dr. Hanmin Lee saw Mason Ellinger, Mason was a fetus fighting for his life.

"I'm actually glad I got to meet you after all these years. It is shocking. All this happened when I was born. I couldn't remember anything. Now, I'm grateful that I'm here standing," said Ellinger.

Mason and his family made the trip from Michigan back to San Francisco to return to the place that saved his life.