40 Years After Kidney Transplant, Survivor Shares Gratitude for Life and the Power of Organ Donation

March is Kidney Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the 104,000 people in the U.S. currently on the transplant waiting list. Among them, 90,000 are waiting for life-saving kidney transplants. In South Louisiana, health disparities, including high rates of diabetes and high blood pressure, contribute to the demand for kidney transplants. It’s crucial to stay on top of kidney health to avoid ending up on the waiting list.

Audrey, who received a kidney transplant 40 years ago, shared her personal journey. After being diagnosed with kidney disease following her pregnancy, she underwent a kidney transplant at the age of 32 in September 1984. Audrey credits her new life to the transplant and remains committed to maintaining her health by following medical advice, taking medication, and staying hydrated. She now celebrates her “second birthday” every year on the anniversary of her transplant.

Amy, Audrey’s daughter, was six years old when her mother received the transplant. She expressed her gratitude, noting that if the donor hadn’t chosen to give the gift of life, she wouldn’t have had the opportunity to grow up with her mother. This highlights the profound impact organ and tissue donation can have on families. The importance of registering as an organ donor was emphasized, with Susanna directing viewers to a website where they can sign up to be donors.

First published 2025-03-26 17:49:21