I am an altruistic living kidney donor who often jokes that I gave away my kidney at the quick lube. My  journey into the world of organ donation started with this simple act, but it led to a profound  transformation in my life. I was so deeply moved by the experience of donating my kidney that I decided  to pursue a career in nursing. Today, I work for LifeGift in Family Care, a role that allows me to support  and guide families through the transplant process. 

Becoming a nurse and a Family Care Specialist was not an easy path. It required a level of dedication and  perseverance that I had never before experienced. But the rewards have been far beyond the ordinary.  This journey has not just been about not giving up; it has been about discovering a sense of purpose and  passion that I never knew existed. Finding this passion, I turned it into a lifelong mission, using every  avenue available to raise awareness for organ donation.

One of the most unexpected outcomes of my journey has been what I call my “adult onset athleticism.”  Before my kidney donation, I was not particularly fit. I was a housewife and a mom of two young kids,  and the idea of engaging in athletic activities, much less competing at an athletic level, was far from my  mind. However, after my donation, my life took a series of unexpected turns. Following a divorce, I found  myself depressed, overweight, and pre-diabetic. It was a challenging time, but it also marked the  beginning of a new chapter in my life. 

The turning point came when I participated in the LifeGift Second Chance Run. This event ignited a  competitive spirit within me that I didn’t know I had. Inspired by the run, I started to explore various  physical activities. I took up cycling, roller skating, kayaking, and hiking. These activities were not just a  means to improve my physical health; they became a platform for spreading awareness about organ  donation. 

Every time I engage in these activities, I carry a message with me. With each pedal stroke, each roll, each  paddle, and each step on the trails, I am not just promoting organ donation; I am living proof of its  impact. My “adult onset athleticism” is more than a personal challenge; it is a way to connect with  others and invite them to be part of something bigger.

Through my blog and social media channels, I share my experiences and invite others to join the  conversation about organ donation. I document serene moments on the lake, the thrill of conquering a  new trail, and the joy of roller skating. Each post is not just about the activity itself but also about the  importance of organ donation. I want people to see that life doesn’t just go on after donation; it thrives. 

The transformation in my life has been profound. Before donating, I never considered myself an athlete.  I was focused on my role as a mom and a housewife, and my health was not a priority. But the process of  donating my kidney and the subsequent challenges I faced pushed me to reevaluate my life. I realized  that I needed to take better care of myself, both physically and mentally.

Participating in the LifeGift Second Chance Run was a pivotal moment. It showed me that I could push  my limits and achieve things I never thought possible. This newfound confidence extended beyond  physical activities. It gave me the courage to pursue a career in nursing and to advocate for organ  donation on a larger scale. Through training, I recently competed and won a silver medal in cycling at the  Transplant Games of America.

Working for LifeGift in Family Care has been incredibly fulfilling. I get to support families during some of  the most challenging times in their lives, guiding them through the organ donation process and offering  them hope. My own experience as a donor allows me to connect with these families on a deeper level. I  understand their fears and concerns, and I can offer them reassurance based on my own journey.

Raising awareness about organ donation has become a central part of my life. Whether I am cycling  through the countryside, roller skating in the park, kayaking on a peaceful lake, or hiking up a challenging  trail, I am always thinking about how I can use these experiences to promote the cause. I share my  stories with the hope that they will inspire others to consider organ donation and to see the incredible  impact it can have. 

In conclusion, my journey from a kidney donor to a nurse and Family Care Specialist has been a  remarkable one. It has been filled with challenges, but also with immense rewards. I have found a sense  of purpose and passion that drives me every day. Through my “adult onset athleticism” and my work  with donor families, I am dedicated to raising awareness about organ donation and showing others that  life after donation is not just possible; it is extraordinary!