In 2000 I became one of the first persons to donate a kidney to someone I didn't know and had never met. I know what you’re probably thinking... why on earth would somebody do this. The short answer? I followed breadcrumbs that led me to one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It became a true life happily ever after fairy tale. And 25 years later both donor and recipient continue to thrive.
Not a day goes by where I don’t stop for a moment to think of all the ripples that would never have happened had I not offered up my kidney. I know I am a better man for having donated. And, of course, my recipient has now had 25 extra years to spend with her family and friends.
Since donating I've focused my attention on sharing my rather odd story with high school students all over the country who are about to get their driver's license. I am NOT trying to get them to sign up to be an organ donor (that's not my call). I am only trying to "loosen the jar" so that when they see that question on the application (Do you want to be an organ donor?) they don't quickly flip past it. I'm hoping their engagement with me leaves lasting thoughts about making a true difference in this world.
Not a day goes by where I don’t stop for a moment to think of all the ripples that would never have happened had I not offered up my kidney. I know I am a better man for having donated. And, of course, my recipient has now had 25 extra years to spend with her family and friends.
Since donating I've focused my attention on sharing my rather odd story with high school students all over the country who are about to get their driver's license. I am NOT trying to get them to sign up to be an organ donor (that's not my call). I am only trying to "loosen the jar" so that when they see that question on the application (Do you want to be an organ donor?) they don't quickly flip past it. I'm hoping their engagement with me leaves lasting thoughts about making a true difference in this world.