“I had to have a kidney transplant because I started experiencing kidney failure. I was diagnosed with kidney disease in 2005. I was one of the lucky ones that did not have to go through the dialysis process.
“Other than needing a kidney, I was fine. I’m thankful they considered me in time to place me on the transplant list.”
“I’m 62 years old — older than most people going through these transplant surgeries. I was nervous that, because I was older, I was not going to make it through the surgery. Dr. Locke reassured me and helped me gain more confidence in the process.”
“After my transplant, my health overall became better. My labs started to come back strong, and I was getting healthier by the minute.”
“I think it’s wonderful that other people are willing to give a kidney for someone in need. Many people involved in the chain did not have ties to anyone, and they could have changed their mind; but I’m glad they didn’t.”
“When I met my donor, I was overwhelmed. I wondered to myself, ‘Why would a total stranger give me a kidney?’ I cried that day because I felt blessed that someone gave me a chance to be healthy again.”
“I am humbled to be a part of the kidney chain, to be able to tell my story to help others in need, and to live my life better than before.”