About 10 months ago, my daughter announced to our family that her husband Bryan was in the beginning stages of kidney failure and was going to need a kidney transplant. This was not unfamiliar territory for Bryan or his family. His mom, sister and aunt all had someone else’s kidney in their bodies. His mom … Continue reading Meet Kidney Donor Athlete, Michelle!
I am five years kidney strong! I grew up in central Michigan on what we now call a “hobby farm”, riding horses, baling hay, cross country skiing, showing 4H steers and lots of walking/exploring on our acreage. The only real working out I did was years of ballet and tap dancing. Even now, living … Continue reading Meet Kidney Donor Athlete, Becca!
Can kidney donors safely run ultramarathons? I think we can do pretty much whatever we set our minds to do! Since my donation in December of 2017, I’ve run 12 ultras, which I admit was too much. Shortly after my 1-year anniversary, I was toast. I didn’t have the usual spring in my step and … Continue reading Race Report From Kidney Donor Athlete, Eric. Leadville 100!
On Tuesday 16 July 2019, my kidney twin, Jason and I, with both of our mothers arrived at the hospital, ready to change his life. It was an exciting moment for us. We checked into the transplant ICU in rooms next to each other and the process began. The first interesting thing to happen was … Continue reading Update From Kidney Donor Athlete, Varla!
This may be long but is worth the read. It will take you on the journey of two people who never quit and ends with a life saving surgery that will change both of their lives forever. I’m a veteran of the US Navy and a 10-year Federal Law Enforcement Officer. My journey started for … Continue reading Meet Kidney Donor Athlete, Matt!
Old running joke: How do you know if someone ran a marathon? Don’t worry, they’ll tell you about it. We’ve all heard that one no doubt. But on this site, those stories have cool plot twists! One year ago as I type this, on 7-13-18, I donated my left kidney to a man who … Continue reading Meet Kidney Donor Athlete, Pete!
I have never considered myself an athlete. I don't join clubs or teams. I avoid gyms like the plague. I don't lift weights or compete against other people. I have been carrying an extra 20 or 30 pounds my entire adult life. Doesn't sound too athletic, does it? But, on the other hand, I … Continue reading Meet Kidney Donor Athlete, Steve!
Hi! My name is Janey. Currently, I’m 48 years old and it’s been 15 years since I donated my kidney to my sister, Julie. My sister was born with degenerative kidney disease, so while I knew that she would eventually need a kidney, I never really thought about it. She wasn’t worried about it, so … Continue reading Meet Kidney Donor Athlete, Janey!
My name is Ashley Hoyng and I am thirty-one and live in Columbus, Ohio. I work as a project manager and am active in my community. I have a big heart and always looking for ways to give back others. I am involved in the National Kidney Foundation and Donate Life as an ambassador. Many … Continue reading Meet Kidney Donor Athlete, Ashley!
"Athlete" was not a word that was used to describe me growing up. Although I participated in sport at school, I was most likely to be found helping the younger girls learn to swim than training with the team swimmers. I did make the first team in my final year, but as it was the … Continue reading Meet Future Kidney Donor Athlete, Varla!
